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itel, the global leading smart life brand committed to providing affordable and good quality consumer electronic products, announced the imminent arrival of its flagship curved screen smartphone, the itel S23+.

itel S23+ is poised to revolutionize the smartphone experience with its cutting-edge technology and innovative features, all within an incredible price range.

Experience of Future of Visual Brilliance with a Mesmerizing Curved Display

Central to the itel S23+ is its remarkable 6.78-inch big FHD+ AMOLED curved screen, which takes visual excellence to new heights.

The screen’s 59-degree curvature creates a mesmerizing visual experience that wraps around the edges, immersing users into their content.

Boasting an impressive 93% ultra-high screen-to-body ratio, this curved screen provides immersive views that captivates the senses.

The 99% DCI-P3 color saturation, an improvement of 12% over its predecessor, ensures that colors are vibrant, accurate, and true-to-life.

The contrast ratio, reaching up to an astonishing 400000:1, significantly surpasses its predecessor’s 1500:1, delivering exceptional clarity and vividness, even in challenging lighting conditions.

This, combined with a high resolution of 1080×2400, delivers dynamic clarity and colorful details.

Furthermore, the incorporation of in-display fingerprint technology adds to both convenience and security, while Corning Gorilla Glass 5 provides a superior touch experience and safeguards against accidental drops.

Seamless AI Assistant: Aivana GPT Integration

Carrying on itel OS13 system, itel S23+ will be upgraded to seamlessly integrate with the Aivana GPT voice assistant, offering automate support for voice-operated phone calls, WhatsApp, music, SMS, weather, map navigation, alarm clock, search, translation, phone settings, and more, to help you perform tasks quickly and easily using voice commands, saving you time and effort.

What’s more, itel 23+ is the first itel smartphone coming with dynamic bar, making it more convenient and seamless than ever to access crucial notifications such as battery status, incoming calls, reminders, and unlock status.

Unmatched Performance Combined with Ample Storage and Big Battery

itel S23+ redefines storage capabilities with in two versions one is up to 16GB of RAM and a substantial 256GB of internal storage while the other is up to 8GB of RAM and a substantial 128GB of internal storage Its innovative Extended RAM technology leverages an additional 8GB from ROM, enabling smooth transitions between as many as 20 background apps.

This guarantees seamless and efficient multitasking, even during resource-intensive activities. Equipped with an 18W Fast Charge and a powerful 5000mAh battery, itel S23+ ensures a long-lasting standby time and quick power replenishment.

With a full charge achievable in just 2 hours, users can stay connected without interruption.

Enhanced Photography Excellence to Capture Cherished Moments

The camera system features a 32MP AI Selfie lens accompanied by a remarkable 50MP Portrait Camera to capture moments in exquisite detail.

With an F1.6 large aperture, the camera maximizes light intake, resulting in clear and vibrant photos even in low-light
conditions.

The revolutionary Eye Tracking mode guarantees that no moment goes unnoticed, facilitating the capture of impeccable portraits.

Moreover, the Portrait Lite feature takes your portrait photography to new heights, by offering a suite of personalized
options to meticulously enhance every aspect of your photo, from skin tone to facial features and face shape.

itel’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in itel S23+’s offerings.

The device comes with an impressive 36-month warranty and 6-month free screen replacement in Africa, underscoring itel’s confidence in the product’s durability and branding services.

The launch of the itel S23+ exemplifies itel’s unwavering dedication to R&D, as well as its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of consumers in emerging markets.

As itel’s first premium curved screen smartphone, S23+ marks an exciting milestone in the pursuit of pushing technological boundaries, enhancing user satisfaction and bringing innovation to a wider range of users.

RRP is Ksh 22,400.

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Architectural and Interior design firm Fine Urban Interiors has announced that it will be giving away free cash prizes to viewers of real estate projects on the firm’s YouTube channel.

By watching a video of one of the firm’s latest real estate projects on its YouTube channel and following a set of instructions, the lucky winner could stand a chance to secure Kes 200, 000.

After watching the video on the YouTube channel, viewers will be required to take a clear screenshot of their favorite moment or scene.

They will then be required to share the screenshot on their Instagram feed or story, and tag five friends who they think will be interested in the content.

They can then encourage them to subscribe to the firm’s YouTube channel and follow their Instagram page. Each tagged friend must subscribe to the YouTube channel and follow the official Instagram page.

The winner, who stands a chance to secure Kes 200, 000, will be selected at random from the pool of eligible entries and announced on Instagram page.

Here is a link to the YouTube video

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  • The iTel S23 4G, recently launched in Kenya, offers a range of impressive features at
    an affordable price.
  • With 4G connectivity, a color-changing back, and a glass front, it combines style and functionality. In this blog post, we’ll provide iTel S23 price in Kenya and take a closer look at what it has to offer.

itel, the global leading smart life brand committed to providing affordable and good quality consumer electronic products with an excellent user experience, has officially launched its first-ever color-changing smartphone S23, which combines premium design with reliable features, offering users with large memory capacity and a smooth user experience.

To introduce this new product, itel organized an offline launch event, allowing customers to have a firsthand experience of S23.

itel’s first-ever color-changing backboard design

itel is confident in delivering a highly fashionable smartphone with a color-changing rear panel.

itel S23 white edition features a photochromic layer on the rear, which automatically changes colors from mystery white to dreamy pink when exposed under sunlight or UV rays.

Its exquisite design, coupled with the vibrant 3D composite panel, helps users to show their unique sense of style.

A combination of overall high-efficient experience

itel S23 comes with a 6.6” HD+ waterdrop display, achieving a 91% screen-to-body ratio.

Its 90Hz high refresh rate brings an excellent viewing experience, while the 120Hz responsive touch rate ensures seamless scrolling and gaming.

S23 is powered by 128+8GB large memory, providing ample space for daily applications and more than 30,000 photos.

Additionally, the 8+8GB memory fusion can effectively integrate ROM space with RAM running space, providing ultra-high performance with less latency.

Also it is equipped with a 5000mAh battery, accompanied by 10W Type-C charging, enabling up to 15 hours of social media usage and 112 hours of music playback.

Here are three reasons why you should buy the Itel S23:

  • Powerful Processor: The S23 is powered by the Unisoc Tiger T606 processor, which is one of the most powerful processors on the market today. This means that you can enjoy smooth and lag-free performance, even when you’re multitasking or playing demanding games.
  • Stunning Display: The S23 has a large 6.6-inch HD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate. This means that you’ll enjoy crystal-clear visuals and smooth scrolling, no matter what you’re doing.
  • Long-Lasting Battery: The S23 has a massive 5000mAh battery that will easily last you a full day on a single charge. This means that you can stay connected all day long without having to worry about your phone running out of power.

In addition to these three great features, the Itel S23 also has a number of other amazing features, including:

  • A triple rear camera system with a 50MP main sensor.
  • A 16MP front-facing camera.
  • 8GB of RAM.
  • 128GB of internal storage.
  • A fingerprint sensor.
  • A face unlock feature.
  • Android 12 operating system.

The Itel S23 is the perfect phone for anyone who wants a powerful, stylish, and affordable smartphone. Order yours today!

Morocco offline event offers firsthand experience for clients

In celebration of S23’s arrival, itel’s Morocco team hosted a local press conference, inviting nearly a hundred guests, including important figures from ITI&IWACO, KRS store owners in Casablanca, and key media personnel.

The event showcased the S23 new product launch, highlighted the technology behind color-changing panel, and featured an exciting lucky draw. The guests showed great interests in the new itel S23, impressed by the device’s color-changing function and large memory.

They expected S23 to become the most cost-effective smartphone with color-changing capabilities and
large memory in the market.

By combining stylish design with noteworthy features such as expanded storage, battery efficiency, and smooth operation, S23 is set to captivate the market with an affordable price!

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  • Jaswant Singh Rai hails from the Rai family, one of Kenya’s richest, controlling major interests in edible oils and sugar
  • Jaswant Rai entered the sugar sector, founding the West Kenya Sugar Company in 1989, now among Kenya’s biggest sugar producers.

Billionaire Jaswant Singh Rai has been making headlines in Kenya after he was apprehended by gun-toting men in Nairobi, forced out of his car in traffic, and bundled into a pick-up that had blocked him on Friday last week.

He was released on Sunday, August 27, 2023, after his search was launched following concerns from his family.

But who is this Jaswant Singh Rai?

Jaswant Singh Rai Family

Jaswant Singh Rai hails from the Rai family, one of Kenya’s richest, controlling major interests in edible oils and sugar.

Jaswant whose father died on December 28, 2010 in Mumbai India, is the son of tycoon Tarlochan Singh Rai.

He is a cousin to Sarbi Singh Rai of Sarrai Group.

Sarbi’s father migrated from his native India to Kenya before being joined by Jaswant’s father who also opened his own chain of business.

After the death of their fathers, the two sons expanded and separately diversified their business before Sarbi moved to Uganda to set up Sarrai Group. It also has operations in Malawi.

Mr Sarbi and Jaswant took different paths in the wake of family disagreements that culminated in a vicious court fight for the control of the Rai family’s multibillion-shilling estate.

Sarbi’s two brothers teamed up with their mum to take on their brother Jaswant over the distribution of wealth left behind by their father.

At the centre of the dispute is the will dated December 17, 1999, allegedly left behind by Tarlochan.

The widow, Sarjij Kaur Rai, together with her sons, Jasbir and Iqbal, have objected to the will, saying the patriarch could have been coerced in crafting the document that distributed his assets among his eight beneficiaries.

Jaswant Singh Rai Businesses and Wealth

Jaswant Rai entered the sugar sector, founding the West Kenya Sugar Company in 1989, now among Kenya’s biggest sugar producers.

Under Jaswant’s watch, the Rai family has extended its dominance in the sugar sector by accounting for nearly half of the entire production of the sweetener.

He is the chairman of the Rai Group- a conglomerate with interests in the sugar, real estate, and hospitality industries- he is thought to control at least 43 per cent of Kenya’s sugar business.

With the opening of a new milling factory in Naitiri, Bungoma County, data from the Sugar Directorate indicates that the four firms owned by the business mogul account for over 45 per cent of the total sugar sales in the country.

Group which also runs West Kenya, Olepito and Sukari Industries has straddled the turbulent industry like a colossus to establish itself in Western and South Nyanza sugar belts.

Jaswant Singh Rai is also the founder of the Raiplywood Group, Kenya’s leading producer of plywood and other wood products.

The Rai family has interests in cement production (Rai Cement), edible oils and soaps (Menengai Oil refineries), sawmilling (Timsales, Raiply and Rai Paper formerly known as Webuye Panpaper), wheat farming, horticulture and real estate (Tulip Properties).

According to Sugar Directorate Data from 2020, Rai Group held 45% of the nation’s total sugar sales. Sukari Industries came in at 11%, West Kenya at 29%, and Olepito at 2%.

Jaswant Rai lifestyle

Jaswant Rai is renowned for his stylish suits.

The suits are made by renowned British stylist and designer Ozwald Boateng.

Boateng  is the first and youngest black tailor to have a shop on London’s prestigious Savile Row, where the world’s royalty go for their clothing.

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  • Prior to his appointment to Kenya Power, Siror was General Manager for System Operations at the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO).
  • Eng Joseph Siror was appointed as the managing director and chief executive officer of KPLC in May 2023.

The Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) Board of Directors in May 2023 appointed Eng Joseph Siror as the managing director and chief executive officer of the company.

The President William Ruto-allied man took over from Geoffrey Muli who was serving in an acting capacity.

Following his appointment, Siror pledged to steer KPLC towards greater efficiency and profitability and to ensure that the company continues to provide reliable and affordable electricity to all Kenyans.

Prior to his appointment to Kenya Power, Siror was General Manager for System Operations at the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO).

Joseph Siror Academic Qualifications

Siror has a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Nairobi.

He also holds a Master’s in Business Administration from the United States International University (USIU).

Siror also holds a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in Engineering from Shanghai Jiaotong University (China) majoring in Radio Frequency Identification (RFID).

He also holds a bachelor’s degree in law from the University of London, a pre-Kenya School of Law certificate from Riara University and a Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Radiation Protection from the University of Nairobi.

Joseph Siror Job Experience

Joseph Siror is widely regarded as one of Kenya’s most experienced energy professionals.

He has experience spanning over 30 years ranging from telecommunications, income tax and customs, manufacturing, ICT and energy transmission.

Siror has held various senior positions in the energy sector, including serving as the CEO of the Geothermal Development Company (GDC) and the Chief Manager in charge of Power Planning and Design at the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen).

He has also worked as a consultant for various international organisations, including the World Bank and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).

He also served as a Senior Assistant Commissioner at the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and worked at Kenya Posts and Telecommunications Corporation as well as a Senior Systems Analyst at Firestone East Africa Limited.

He previously worked as a Director of Science, Technology Innovation and Communication at the National Economic and Social Council (NESC).

He is a registered engineer with the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) and a member of the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK).

Joseph Siror Net Worth

The KPLC CEO has an undisclosed net worth which is believed to be millions of Kenyan shillings.

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Most land-selling companies have been swindling unsuspecting innocent buyers for decades and we can report that the Kiambu land-buying/selling company Finsco Limited is no better.

What even makes it worse, is the possible involvement of the Principal Secretary in charge of irrigation PS Kimotho Kimani.

Documents in our possession show that the controversial and suspiciously philanthropic company owned by Mr. Mwaura among others who includes a sitting PS in the Ruto administration, has lately been selling hot air in the ongoing Murang’a plots, LR number 10875 owned by Hatwara estate limited. It’s not the first time the PS is involved in land-buying schemes as he was also in the “Legacy ” project.

The documents shows finsco Africa, faked a land search documents to push for a change of use for the 200 acre piece of land in the project named finsco limited Thika Grove Chania project, previously meant for agricultural purposes at the Muranga county government with the help of two CECs who gave the county Governor, Hon Irungu Kangata, misleading advice.

What is more worrying is that the land-selling company has been swindling unsuspecting victims where they pay for plots but can’t access them as most of these lands are still not ready for subdivision.

In the Muranga land, the owner had a loan with CFC bank of around 365 million shillings which is yet to be cleared for the bank to release the title deeds and hence the reason Mr. Mwaura had to fake a land search with the help of a Muranga CEC,Mr. Paul Mugo who previously worked for finsco limited, for the change of use.

Several complaints have been sent to the DCI offices along Kiambu road for investigations with reports indicating finsco limited ownership has bribed its way around the office and no arrests have been effected so far.

It’s yet to be clear how long Kenyans will continue being swindled by these land-selling companies with memories of the recently Gakuyo investments scandal still fresh in their minds.

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Are you ready to take charge and win a brand-new Infinix Note 30 smartphone? Infinix is pleased to announce its exciting competition, #TakeChargeWithNote30, where you can showcase your talent, unleash your creativity and take charge of your journey. Click this link to join the competition now https://snssdk1233.onelink.me/bIdt/1lr3ib79

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East African Cables has welcomed the court injunction stopping Equity Bank from placing it under administration as it announced that its operations would continue as usual.

High Court on Monday stopped attempts by Equity Bank to take over East Africa Cables and its parent company Transcentury PLC.

The Court Injunction issued on the appointment of an administrator to East African Cables took effect immediately ensuring business operations continue as usual.

“East African Cables PLC (“EAC”) would like to inform shareholders, partners, and the public that the company has obtained a court injunction in regard to the notice dated 16th June 2023 issued by Equity Bank to appoint an administrator to EAC,” said EAC chairman Michael G Waweru.

Waweru said the injunction is on the basis that the bank appointed an administrator while parties were engaged in negotiations.

He said: “I am glad that the brief setback that this unfortunate action had brought to the business is behind us and we can now focus on what we do best, providing quality cables to our customers across the region.”

In a press statement, Waweru decried the “ extreme and unfortunate action” by Equity Bank.

“ We have been in what we viewed as positive discussions with the bank up until a day before the appointment of the administrator, therefore the extreme and unfortunate action taken by the bank came to us as a surprise,” he said. “EAC is a renowned and astute business and we’ve been committed to meeting our obligations and continue to do so despite the prevailing challenging macro environment.”

The injunction by Justice Alfred Mabeya of the Milimani Commercial Courts put a stop to the appointment of the administrator and restrained them or their agents from performing any actions in the capacity of administrator of the company.

The move allows EAC to return to focusing on the business operation and strategy.

East African Cables is a household brand in the region, with the largest electrical cable manufacturing plant in East and Central Africa.

Since 1966, the company has played a key role in the electrification drive across the region, connecting households, factories, and streets with power.

EAC has over 200 employees in Kenya and Tanzania and works with a wide network of electricians, traders, distributors, consultants in the business ecosystem.

EAC CEO Paul Muigai added that “East African Cables is the undisputed number one cable brand in the region, we have built an admired brand that is powering nearly all homesteads, factories, streets in this country and beyond. We are synonymous with the electrification success of this country and are confident of our business model and the unwavering support from our customers, staff and shareholders. We are delighted to resume serving our customers in every corner of our country!”

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East African Cables

East African Cables PLC (“EAC”) has obtained a court injunction in regard to the notice dated 16th June 2023 issued by Equity Bank to appoint an administrator to EAC.

The injunction is on the basis that the bank appointed an administrator while parties were engaged in negotiations.

“I am glad that the brief setback that this unfortunate action had brought to the business is behind us and we can now focus on what we do best, providing quality cables to our customers across the region,” said Dr. M.G Waweru on receiving the injunction.

“We have been on what we viewed as positive discussions with the bank up until a day before the appointment of the administrator, therefore the extreme and unfortunate action taken by the bank came to us as a surprise. EAC is a renowned and astute business and we’ve been committed to meeting our obligations and continue to do so despite the prevailing challenging macro environment,”added Dr.Waweru.

The injunction puts a stop to the appointment of the administrator and restrains them or their agents from performing any actions in the capacity of administrator of the company.

This will allow EAC to return to focusing on the business operation and strategy.

East African Cables is a household brand in the region, with the largest electrical cable manufacturing plant in East and Central Africa.

Since 1966, the company has played a key role in the electrification drive across the region, connecting households, factories, and streets with power.

EAC has over 200 employees in Kenya and Tanzania and works with a wide network of electricians, traders, distributors,
consultants in the business ecosystem.

East African Cables CEO Paul Muigai added, “East African Cables is the undisputed number one cable brand in the region, we have built an admired brand that is powering nearly all homesteads, factories, streets in this country and beyond. We are
synonymous with the electrification success of this country and are confident of our business model and the unwavering support from our customers, staff and shareholders. We are delighted to resume serving our customers in every corner of our country!”

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The High Court has suspended the move by Equity Bank to place investment firm Transcentury PLC under receivership.

The basis for the injunction stems from allegations that Equity Bank unlawfully appointed a receiver while negotiations were ongoing, constituting a flagrant breach of legal procedures.

The court-issued injunction effectively halts the appointment of the receivers and restricts them or their agents from taking any actions in their capacity as receivers of the company.

The injunction, issued by Honourable Justice A. Mabeya on June 19, 2023, comes in response to a notice dated June 16, 2023, which Equity Bank had issued to TransCentury PLC.

Transcentury and its subsidiary, East African Cables were placed under receivership over a Sh3.01 billion-shilling loan facility advanced by Equity Bank Kenya Limited.

The court deemed the application urgent and ordered that it be served promptly with a response required within 14 days, leading to a hearing on July 3, 2023.

“For avoidance of doubt, the receivership is temporarily suspended pending inter partes hearing of the application.”

TransCentury PLC expressed its satisfaction with the court’s decision, highlighting the irregularity that tainted the entire process.

“We are delighted to see that the court has recognized the irregularity that marred this very unfortunate and ill-intended process. We considered the bank as a partner and were engaged in what we believed to be positive discussions to reach an amicable agreement, just one day before the receiver was appointed by the bank,” stated Shaka Kariuki, Chairman of TC Group, upon releasing the injunction announcement.

“TransCentury is a significant business in Kenya’s economic landscape, we are committed to meeting our obligation, and hence the reason why we embarked on a Rights Issue transaction at the beginning of the year. Despite the challenging economic environment that Kenya and the world at large faces, we raised money from our shareholders and were preparing to settle on an agreement favourable to the business and the bank.”

The court-issued injunction effectively halts the appointment of the receivers and restricts them or their agents from taking any actions in their capacity as receivers of the company.

This development allows TransCentury PLC to refocus on its business operations and pursue its strategic objectives.

Nganga Njiinu, CEO of TransCentury Group, expressed confidence in the company’s resilient team and their ability to recover the lost time.

Njiinu emphasized their commitment to their mandate of making a transformative impact on Africa’s infrastructure.

“TC Group is steered by a very resilient team and I am confident that we shall recover the time lost as we continue focusing on our mandate of impacting Africa with transformative infrastructure,” Njiinu said.

The company’s Boards extend their gratitude to shareholders, staff, and partners for their unwavering support as they strive to steer the business towards growth.

As the court proceedings progress, stakeholders eagerly await further developments in this case, which holds significant implications for both TransCentury PLC and Equity Bank.

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The move by Equity Bank to place the infrastructure based investment firm Transcentury and its subsidiary East African Cables under receivership over a debt of Shs 4.8 billion is a wake up call to President Ruto and his government.

As President Ruto strives to create a conducive environment for investors to create and grow businesses in order to create jobs, the predatory move by creditors like Equity Bank will definitely derail the KK government job creation agenda.

Equity Bank this week announced that Muriu Thoithi and George Weru of PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC) have been appointed joint receivers of Transcentury with effect from June 16th 2023.

The bank also appointed Thoithi and Weru as joint administrators of East Africa Cables.

In an advertisement placed on local dailies, Equity Bank stated that “ The powers of director (of Transcentury) in terms of dealing with the company’s business and assets no longer apply. Any person who purports to hold, receive, use, or attempt to buy or sell, contract or otherwise deal with the company without the prior written consent of the receivers will be acting in contravention of the law and will be liable to legal action.”

The move has predictably alarmed the business community and every one else who cares about the Kenyan economy.

Everyone understands very well how such drastic and draconian actions by banks have in the past killed healthy companies, leading to massive job losses and sending thousands into poverty.

It’s common knowledge that receiver managers in kenya are like morticians whose clients never live after. Blue Chip companies such as Nakumatt, ARM Cement and Deacons East Africa never survived receivership.

Its still fresh in many people’s minds how the Kenyan horticulture sector suffered when the country’s largest flower firm Karuturi Limited was placed under receivership by Stanbic Bank over a Shs 383 million debt.

More than 3,000 workers lost their livelihood and Naivasha town has never been the same ever after.

The effects of the collapse of Nakumatt chain of supermarkets are still felt today.

Other companies which have suffered under these banks include Kinangop Wind Park, Pan Paper Mills, Spencon, Mumias Sugar and Eveready East Africa.

It is high time President Ruto intervened and saved local investors and businesses from these vulture-like banks who seem to derive sadistic joy in killing companies.

For starters the government must initiate amendments to the receivership laws to curb the cannibalistic tendencies of banks like Equity Bank who hardly care about public interest.
If not checked, the move by Equity Bank will take down another local success story and send thousands of employees into poverty during these hard economic times.

The banks must not be allowed to operate unilaterally without taking into consideration the interests of the staff, other creditors, clients, taxman, regional integration and the economy at large.

The president must intervene and bring together the business community to charter a new way forward for the country before these banks kill kenya’s economy.

Equity Bank must be told in no uncertain terms that its frustrating the government and the country’s economic aspirations .

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Prof Simon Gicharu

Thousands of squatters in Naivasha, Kenya who were evicted from a land that they claim was allocated to them by the former government of President Daniel Moi (deceased) have written to Kenya Commission for Human Rights seeking their intervention after Simon Gicharu , the founder and chairman of Mount Kenya University reportedly bought it through rogue land officials and influential politicians who served in the government of retired president Kenyatta.

In a letter dated 9th June 2023, directed to Kenya Commission of Human Rights, the 3,000 squatters notes that if the situation is not contained , they remain vulnerable and their leaders who have been fighting Mr Gicharu’s atrocity may remain in jail after they were arrested by police while protesting about the latter but they could not afford a cash bail or bond of Sh 200,000 and are now rotting in prison.

‘’We are over 3,000 squatters living in Naivasha,Nakuru county who have lived in 16,000 acres that was allocated to us by former president Daniel Moi given our vulnerable situations.The squatters are drawn from Kenya,Uganda and Tanzania.Few months ago, Simon Gicharu who owns Mount Kenya University with the help of another tycoon Benjamin Kipkulei acting for Uhuru era politicians and rogue police officers used police and arrested some of our members,’’ reads part of the letter

‘’They are still in remand since they could not afford to pay a cash bail or bond that was being asked by the court of Sh 200,000.We kindly ask for your intervention because no one is listening to us and the media has been bribed not to air our grievances.We have been to the Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika office and county commissioner’s office but they seem to be compromised too.We have documents to show that this land is ours,’’ reads the letter further that is copied to the office of the Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Last month, the squatters had promised to match to Mount Kenya University campus in Nakuru to show their disappointment with Simon Gicharu for grabbing their land but they claim some leaders were bought off.

Locals who spoke to this publication said they have lived there for decades and in the year 2019,the government set up a local school for 3,000 squatters and promised them part of the land will be subdivided to them since they had no where to go.

Last month , Mr Gicharu who locals says landed last week with the chopper to inspect the eviction and subsequent uprooting of the crops where the houses were burnt.

‘’We have nowhere to go, Simon Gicharu who owns Mount Kenya university claims he bought this land from the government and now wants us out. He is using the police to defeat justice, the media has been compromised, they come to interview us and later get money from Gicharu and never air our grievances,’’ Mary Mwathi, 78, says in a video seen by this publication when the group camped at the office of Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika and Regional commissioner seeking an audience with them over the matter.

Most farmers claim the specific area they have called home is called Ndabibi and Kosovo.

Mr Gicharu has already funded the construction of a police post in the contested land as an effort to deter the squatters from resettling in.

The new development comes just days after Kikuyu Member of parliament Kimani Ichungwah and majority leader in the National assembly questioned how Mount Kenya university has been the only private university in Kenya that has been receiving the highest number of government sponsored students at the expense of other private and public universities.

The outspoken legislator noted that Simon Gicharu who owns the university behaves like a cartel to get higher student placement funded by taxpayers in exchange for bribes.

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Infinix today announced the release of its new NOTE 30 Series, which includes the NOTE 30 Pro, NOTE 30 VIP, and NOTE 30.

This latest offering from Infinix features the brand’s hallmark charging capabilities, with an improved All-Round Fast Charge solution that can reach up to 68W wired and 15W wirelessly.

In addition, the NOTE 30 Series boasts a smooth and responsive 120Hz refresh rate display and an ultra-clear triple camera system with lenses up to 108MP.

Furthermore, Infinix has partnered with JBL for upgraded tuned sound, and created Ultra Powerful Signal technology, offering users incredible performance and efficiency like never before on an Infinix device.

“At Infinix, we designed the NOTE series with the aim of providing users with a powerful phone that can keep them connected to the world, anytime and anywhere. To achieve this, we developed the first-ever All-Round Fast Charge solution, which not only delivers speed but also ensures safety, intelligence, and flexibility. With this solution, users can take charge of their lives in all scenarios, 24/7. All devices have a premium display, ultra-clear camera, JBL-tuned sound system and advanced connectivity capabilities. We are confident that the NOTE 30 Series is a top choice for power users seeking an unbeatable value.” – Liang Zhang, Deputy General Manager at Infinix.

The Fast Charge Revolution

Infinix’s NOTE 30 Series comes packed with groundbreaking new charging innovations. The NOTE 30 Pro features 68W All-Round FastCharge, which can charge its 5000mAh battery from 1% to 80% in just 30 minutes. It also supports a 15W wireless FastCharge, a first in its price segment. The NOTE 30 and NOTE 30 VIP support a 68W All-Round FastCharge which rapidly powers up the devices on the go. All models have unparalleled durability, exceeding the industry average by withstanding 1,000 full charging cycles while retaining 80% of their energy.

The NOTE 30 Series introduces Infinix’s all-in-one solution for charging. Reverse Charge enables the device to work as a power bank for other devices in emergency situations.

Bypass Charge filters the current to supply power directly to the main board, which controls the phone’s temperature, resulting in an average temperature drop of 2℃ – 7℃.

These advances in temperature control keep the device cool, allowing users to charge and play games simultaneously.

The series also includes Intelligent Power E-IQ further advancing the charging experience with AI algorithms and security measures that protect users from overcharging.

Finally, PD 3.0 is fully supported, allowing the charger to fast charge other smart devices alongside the user’s NOTE 30 Series device.

The Perfect Companion for Mobile Entertainment

The NOTE 30 Series portfolio of devices features a 120Hz refresh rate display that benefits from Infinix’s Smart Refresh and Magellan Engine.

These features enable the device to adjust its refresh rate based on the user’s scenario, providing a smoother experience while consuming less power. Whether gaming or watching videos, the NOTE 30 Series’ display enriches the viewing experience.

Moreover, all models include an eye-care mode with TUV Rheinland Certification, which protects users’ eyes during extended screen time.

Infinix’s NOTE 30 Pro offers a viewing experience like no other. The 10-bit AMOLED display has a peak brightness of 900 nits, a 5,000,000:1 contrast ratio, 1920Hz PWM Dimming, and 360Hz Touch Sampling Rate. This means users can expect a responsive, vibrant display in every situation.

The ultra-thin bezels and stereo dual speakers, which are sound by JBL and certified by Hi-Res, make the NOTE 30 Series an industry standout for its audio capabilities.

Next-level Performance

Focusing on performance, the NOTE 30 Series is fully equipped with powerful internals specifically designed to empower the user to get more out of their day.

The NOTE 30 Pro and NOTE 30 4G use powerful MediaTek Helio G99 processors, with a 6nm process for energy efficiency and high performance. With Vapor-Chamber Liquid Cooling technology on the NOTE 30 Pro, the device stays cool under pressure, thanks to a patented 10-layer material with a 2,000mm2 chamber area.

Meanwhile, the NOTE 30 5G features a MediaTek Dimensity 6080 6nm 5G processor and dual 5G SIM support, providing users with lightning-fast 5G speeds.

The NOTE 30 Series is proud to introduce its latest innovation: self-developed Ultra Power Signal (UPS) technology.

Designed specifically for weak signal environments, this groundbreaking technology is optimized for weak signal user scenarios, including basements, elevators, suburban areas, and landscape handheld.

With a new antenna design and proprietary algorithms, UPS technology greatly improves signal performance in signal jitter, signal dense, and signal weak conditions.

It can intelligently switch antennas, accelerate the network, and reduce the lag rate when using low-latency applications such as gaming, downloading content, and watching videos.

The NOTE 30 Series has achieved a remarkable up to 40% increase in cellular signal strength and a 100% increase in WiFi signal strength in landscape mode, ensuring a seamless and uninterrupted entertainment experience.

Capture With Clarity

Infinix is proud to announce that the NOTE 30 Series features an impressive triple camera system.

The Infinix NOTE 30 Pro and NOTE 30 VIP come with a whopping 108MP ultra-high pixel primary camera that captures every moment with maximum sharpness and crystal-clear transparency.

Meanwhile, the NOTE 30 model is equipped with a 64MP primary camera to cater to different user needs. Additionally, all three devices feature automatic color gradation technology to enhance image quality when under backlighting and glare conditions.

The camera capabilities of the NOTE 30 Series are further enhanced with features such as Dual View Mode, which allows users to capture moments with both front and rear-facing cameras simultaneously.

Sky Remap adjusts the sky in photos, while the Street Photography Filter helps users master the art of street photography. With all these features, users can capture stunning images that meet their exact specifications. Moreover, the NOTE 30 Pro’s 32MP selfie camera with Style Makeup helps users show off their multi-faceted personality.

Additional Key Features

The NOTE 30 Series boasts an impressive 8GB+256GB of memory, with an Extended RAM technology upgrade of 8GB+8GB (equivalent to 16GB) for superior multitasking performance and storage capabilities.
Running on XOS 13 built on Android 13, the NOTE 30 Series delivers a sleek user interface, new sound design and motion graphics. XOS 13 also offers upgraded PC connection 2.0, Lightning Multi-Window, and Notepad features, ensuring a personalized and intuitive experience.
With the NOTE 30 Series’ Multi-Functional Near Field Communication (NFC), users can enjoy the convenience of short-range wireless technologies, making it possible to share payloads of data such as transit passes or charge to credit cards.

Pricing and Availability

The NOTE 30 VIP, NOTE 30 Pro and NOTE 30 will cost Ksh 45,999, Ksh 33,999 and Ksh 27,999 respectively, and will be available in Classic Black, Interstellar Blue, or Sunset Gold. Prices and availability for the NOTE 30 Series will vary from retailer to retailer.

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Infinix has announced its new collaboration with HARMAN’s legendary audio and technology brand JBL, to bring Sound by JBL audio excellence to the next generation of their highly-regarded NOTE Series.

At Infinix, the user experience is a top priority, and sound quality plays a fundamental role in that experience.

Together with the 75-year legacy of acoustic quality and expertise that the brand is renowned for, the upcoming release of the NOTE Series will be enhanced by the Sound by JBL tuning along with the latest innovations from Infinix.

Users can look forward to an upgraded audio experience in the next generation of Infinix’s NOTE Series, thanks to this exciting new collaboration with JBL. Stay tuned for more information on the release date and features of the new series.

“We’re incredibly excited about our collaboration with the JBL brand here at Infinix. Our hardware expertise combined with JBL’s acoustic technology means we can provide an enhanced audio experience to customers worldwide. With a device that delivers upgraded sound quality, we’re confident we’re in exceeding users’ expectations.” – Liang Zhang, Deputy General Manager at Infinix.

Integrated with JBL Tech
When building the NOTE Series, Infinix collaborated closely with JBL engineers to optimize the software system of their new generation NOTE Series.

The software processing within the Note series was tuned to deliver JBL’s signature sound that ensures well-balanced mid-tones as well as rich bass, along with high-quality and faithful sound reproduction.

“The JBL brand is all about delivering the fullest sound experience, and we are therefore extremely proud to collaborate with the Infinix team to deliver superior audio through Sound by JBL.

Rooted in a shared passion for sound, we know the Infinix team is committed to audio excellence in their mobile devices, and we will continue to work together bringing upgraded sound quality to more consumers as we look forward to deepening our cooperation with Infinix for more product development.” – Roumu Hu, Vice President and General Manager, HARMAN Embedded Audio.

Availability
Infinix intends to introduce this new technology in their upcoming phone models, starting with the next release of the NOTE series.

The launch is scheduled for May, so customers can look forward to experiencing the enhanced sound quality of this innovative technology very soon.

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iTel P40

itel, a reliable smart life brand who ranked No.1 global smartphone brand among $100 price segment, unveils its newest 4G smartphone P40, with a bunch of worth mentioning features and long-lasting power performance.

Powerful Battery to Bring Long-lasting Entertainment

To start with it, itel P40 draws power from 6000mAh mega battery, which can ensure super long usage time and long-lasting entertainment experience, supporting 15 days standby, 32 hours calling, 62 hours music playing and 8 hours gaming time.

Along with its 18W Type C fast charge, users can experience more daily usage benefits of fast charging, engaging 2 hours chatting in 10 minutes charging.

P40 also embedded with AI Power Master, itel’s intelligent battery lab, which can optimize battery performance and maximize its battery life and efficiency.

Bigger Storage and Bigger Screen to Gain Smoother Performance

Compared to the previous itel P series smartphone, this new series P40 has the memory upgrade to support large data storage and multiple applications switch.

It offers two memory model choices: 64+7GB and 64+4GB, to store more than 26000 photos and bigger RAM to boost smoother performance with less latency.

Meanwhile, its Memory Fusion Function can effectively integrate 3GB ROM space to RAM, extending to 7GB running space.

For screen, P40 comes with the 6.6” HD+ Water Drop display, features 90% screen-to-body ratio and 72% colorfulness, which can push perfect colors and resolution to the higher edge. Its better screen makes all your content look true to life.

Clearer Rear Camera to Save Every Detailed Moment

In terms of camera, P40 is packed with a clearer 13MP rear camera compared to the last generation, to clarify every details of our highlight moments. Also it carries out with various of shooting modes, including Pro Mode, Panorama Mode and Time-lapse Mode.

Smarter shooting experience to create more valuable videos and make users become their own life director.

Concerned with its energetic design, P40’s pattern is inspired by racing tracks, the trending stripe design brings a sense of speed and energy.

P40 goes for three colors: Force Black, Dreamy Blue and Luxurious Gold.

P40, regarding as itel’s P series flagship model, presents strong energy with its 6000mAh mega battery and upgraded storage and HD+ display.

Offering better value-for-money proposition, it features powerful performance in a affordable price to satisfy young users’ entertainment experience in emerging markets.

For more product information, please visit: https://www.itel-life.com/global/.

RRP is Ksh 11,800 and Is available in all authorized mobile retail outlets countrywide.

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Trouble is brewing at Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) as disappointed staff bitterly complain about corruption, nepotism and mismanagement by acting Director General Prof Elija Songok.

According to sources within the institution, morale is at historic low and important research work has ground to halt due to graft.

To make matters worse, there has been no substantive DG or CEO at Kemri for three years since Prof Yeri Kombe retired. Prof Sam Kariuki who was in acting capacity until March 2023 took a sabbatical leave due to frustrations.

He handed over to Prof Elija Songok who was imposed by the Principal Secretary for Health Engineer Peter Tum. Songok had been serving as the director of research.

Songok was elevated to the position in dubious circumstances reeking of nepotism. Tum, PS for health is a village mate (they are actually next door neighbors) to Songok. They have a relationship going back decades and are close family friends.

When Tum’s children were studying in Canada, it’s Songok who hosted them in his house.

Curiously, Songok is earning double salary as the acting DG Kemri and also as a staffer at University of Manitoba in Canada. He is actually a Canadian citizen is its curious how a dual citizen can be appointed to head such an important Kenyan institution.

The biggest case of corruption involves a product developbed by Kemri known as Ujiplus.

While serving as the director of research, Songok led the team of researchers that came up with Ujiplus, a herbal flour to be used in fighting neglected tropical diseases.

Ujiplus is a fortified herbal formulation designed to be taken as a school meal snack for both nutrition and deworming.

Scientists at Kemri developed the integrated deworming and nutritious porridge but in a move that stinks of corruption, Songok grabbed the product and is privately selling it.

Usually when Kemri comes up with a product like this, it is sent to the commercial department which sells it to generate revenue for the research institution.

In a move that should interest EACC, Songok founded a company known as Terik Foods and Nutraceuticals Limited which now produces and sells Ujiplus yet the product was developed by Kemri.

Interestingly, Terik is the name of the sub clan in Nandi community where he hails from.

To make matters worse he has roped in his 2 sons into this corrupt scheme. The boys operate a shop just next to Kemri headquarters in Nairobi where they sell the Ujiplus. The sons also live in his official Kemri residence.

When Tum served as the CEO of KMTC, he had a personal assistant known as Barnabas Kimatoi. The he has since seconded the same guy to serve as Songok’s PA.

There are also irregular appointments and promotions happening under Songok’s watch at Kemri.

He has promoted his cronies and partners in dubious dealings to influential and lucrative positions.

Songok has removed Dr Kizito Lubano as director of research and development and replaced him with a Dr Nelly Mugo with who Songok has business interests with.

Dr Mugo runs an NGO known as Partners in Health Research and Development (PHRD) which is funded by Kemri. She runs the NGO with a Dr David Bukusu whose spouse Prof Elizabeth Bukusu also work at Kemri.

Another case of conflict of interest involves Dr Onono Maricianah who runs an NGO known as Kargeno Group. Kargeno group focuses on sexual reproductrive adolescent and child health.

Songok has appointed Dr Onono to be director of scientific programs and partnerships while still running the NGO.

In another case of malpractice at Kemri, the director, legal, Martin Machira whose contract is lapsing in August 2023 is irregularly pushing the HR committee of Kemri board to renew his contract.

Machira has blatantly continued to engage external lawyers are exorbitant cost to the institute against government directive when he should be the one going to court to represent the institution.

Another issue if the irregular hiring of the internal auditor. When James Mwangi was serving as internal auditor, he exposed a lot of rot in the finance department including the cash purchases totaling Shs 52 million which were highlighted in Auditor General Report 2020/21.

So the finance director Antony Wachira hatched a plot to get Mwangi out of the way. Wachira colluded with an intern who he had an affair with to falsely accuse Mwangi with attempted rape. The intern entered Mwangi’s office at noon and started screaming that Mwangi wanted to rape her.

When Mwangi was suspended over the issue, Wachira arranged for his own cousin Patrick Gitau to be seconded from treasury as the acting internal auditor.

When Wachira was made the acting director of Corporate Services, he used the position to confirm Gitau as the internal auditor even before Mwangi’s case was heard and determined.

Mwangi was eventually cleared by court and reinstated to his job but his office had been irregularly filled. Now Kemri has 2 internal auditors.

Another problem causing low morale within Kemri is the failure by Songok to pay some 2.27 billion shillings owed to unionisable staff as extraneous allowance.

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