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WHAT UK NEWSPAPERS SAY - IKO NINI BWANA SEED ARCHIVE
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Martyns & Rose Solicitors - CAPITALfm RADIO fff - KAMEME RADIO IS BACK AGAIN
White House crowds cheer Bin Laden death
A mix of euphoria and relief in the crowds outside the White House. US President Barack Obama has announced that US forces killed al-Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden in an operation in Pakistan. The crowds started gathering outside the White House even before President Obama delivered the news. Word spread quickly as US television networks gave advance warning of what he was going to say. People were running towards Lafayette Square, the park outside the White House, to join the celebrations. Some climbed into the trees outside, stringing US flags - the Stars and Stripes - between the branches. Chants of "USA, USA, USA" surged from the growing crowd.
Small banks in Kenya bet on personal touch to stay afloat: survey
Small banks are betting on customer service and value addition to stay afloat in the competitive industry. This is due to the huge financial muscle wielded by major players leaving little room for their smaller counterparts to manoeuvre, according to results from the Think Business Banking Awards 2011. “With their financial muscle, small banks cannot spoil for a face-off in terms of customer acquisition because they lack the means. “To retain clients such banks now resort to building a special kind of relationship with their customers,” says Think Business chief executive officer Mr Ochieng Oloo. During a Friday night gala, Bank of Africa emerged the bank with the most satisfied customers followed by Credit Bank and First Community Bank while Bank of Baroda was named the most efficient. Chase Bank received a special award for product innovation. I&M Bank came out tops for product innovation for its M-Pesa Prepay Safari card while Family Bank’s Pesa Pap won the bank best in product marketing. “With the number of customers these banks have they are able to meet their needs at a more personalised level unlike other larger banks with millions who easily lose that personal touch,” said Mr Oloo. Standard Chartered Bank led under tier I category followed by Barclays Bank. Citi Bank was named best in tier II, Bank of India best in tier III and Habib Bank emerged top in tier IV. Diamond Trust Bank emerged top in SME banking and best in asset finance, while best bank in mortgage finance and retail banking awards went to KCB. Best institution in corporate banking was given to Citi Bank, Barclays won best bank in technology use and Equity Bank was best bank in microfinance. “The trend we are seeing is an improvement in innovation and use of technology by small and medium sized banks as they strive to exert their presence in the market and retain their customers,” said Mr Oloo said, “Banks will continue to strive to improve their efficiency and put their funds into best use to ensure future better return.” As competition heightens more banks are embracing innovation to either acquire or retain market leadership. The Banking Awards 2011 is the sixth edition of the annual celebration of the achievements in the industry. Banks are assessed on the basis of financial soundness based on eight different parameters. Diamond Trust Bank’s Ms Nasim Devji was named the 2011 chief executive officer of the year 2011. She joined DTB group in 1996. In 2001, she was appointed group chief executive officer of Diamond Trust Banks in East Africa. The achievement in banking award was given to ABC Bank’s chairman Mr Ashraf Savani. Mr John Mark Wandolo was named the corporate banker of the year. Mr Wandolo has been the divisional director - credit in Kenya Commercial Bank Ltd since 2009. He joined the bank in 1990 as management trainee in credit. - Daily Nation A Kenyan passes away in Dallas Texas
The late Joseph Manthi A Kenyan living in Dallas, Texas Passed away suddenly on Thursday 28th April, 2011 after developing a Heart Attack on Sunday which later developed into a Massive stroke and eventual Death. He previously lived in New England; New Hampshire area and was an Active Member of KCA. Friends and families are meeting at Ben and Purity Ateku of Dallas Texas. For more info: Call Ben Ateku ---on 1-214-354-2472 or Purity Ateku on 1-214-577-1646. - Diasporamessenger
A MAASAI PROVERB Meitore tunani Ai. A man cannot command God. ONLY IN AFRICA
A Kenyan has passed away in Arlington Texas
A Kenyan lady has passed away in Texas, USA. The family and friends of our sister in the Lord Phyllis Wairimu Githengu ( Mama Kim) of Arlington Tx wishes to announce her promotion to Glory on Tuesday Morning Wednesday 27th April, 2011. She was dear wife to Jidraph G Githengu Kimani of Arlington TX, Daughter to the Late Mr and Mrs. Duncan Kimani. Mother to Grace Wambui (Kijabe), Virginia Wanjiru (Rongai) and David Kimani of Everest College Arlington USA. She was a sister to among others David Kuria Kimani (Arlington). The entire family hails from Kijabe, Kenya. Phyllis was diagnosed with renal failure and underwent various medical treatments in the USA including dialysis which culminated with a successful Kidney transplant in India at the beginning of the year. She was among the Worshippers at Trinity Anglican Church on Sunday 24/04/11 where she celebrated Holy Communion. She was taken ill and rushed to Arlington Memorial Hospital,on Monday midday by her Husband. Family and Friends Joined them that evening and Doctors and nurses worked diligently but the gates of heaven opened for her in the wee hours of Tuesday 26th April, 2011. We continue to hold prayers and programs daily at their residence 405 Cora St, Apt 216, Arlington TX 76011 to assist the family wish of sending her remains to Kenya for funeral. A Grand fundraiser will be held at a Friend’s house, Mwash and Naomi ( Baba Emanuel) 3144 Spygrass Dr, Grand Prairie TX 75052 on Sunday 01/05/11 starting from 4pm. An Account in Bank of America has been set acc number 488030174010 routing number 111000025, under JIDRAPH G KIMANI and Alex Karundu. Memorial Service will be held at Trinity Church 12727 Hillcrest Rd Dallas 75230 on Wednesday 05/04/11 from 5 pm. For additional question contact Pastor Jacob Ngobia of Trinity 972 891 2371, Alex N Karundu 469 438 8388, Jidraph G Kimani 817 704 9974, Githuku Francis 817 986 1535, Waweru Raphael 732 609 4664, Irene Boro 817 729 1814, Simon Peter Mathenge 817 881 6796, Lydia Wambugu 682 558 0486, Peter Mbugua 469 835 1210 and in Kenya you can reach Baba Kimani + 721415187. May the Almighty God Rest Her Soul In Eternal Peace and be blessed as you plan to participate in any way especially in prayers and donations. - Diasporamessenger Ranneberger: I came, I saw and I fell in love with my ‘queen’ and the country
US ambassador in Kenya Michael Ranneberger with his “queen” Ms Ruth Konchellah at the Coast this week during a meeting with youth groups from throughout Kenya. As US ambassador to Kenya, Michael Edward Ranneberger, flies out of Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Washington this Wednesday, he has one message for Kenyans: “I will be back.” The outgoing envoy tells Saturday Nation that he fell in love with the East African country for three reasons. The most important — he got a soul mate, Ms Ruth Konchellah, in Kenya, a country he now has a soft spot for and can’t cut links with. “On a personal level, I have been fortunate to become a king to a certain lady, and she became a queen to me. That, to me, is a very fulfilling experience,” he says. Although he remains largely non-committal as to when Kenyans would expect something concrete between him and Ms Konchellah, he promises that it would be in due course. “I will keep everybody posted on that. I don’t want to say much about it at this point. It has been interesting. These things happen. Opportunities come by and one can only be grateful when these things happen that way,” he says. Mr Ranneberger says he is flying back to Washington since he is remaining in the Foreign Service. Before coming to Kenya, he was the Africa Bureau’s Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary and had served as Special Advisor on Sudan from 2002 to 2004. - Saturday Nation.
KING SOLOMON HAD A REASON TO SMILE
After a century of dramatic decline, the comma butterfly is now making a remarkable comeback in the UK. The species has been found as far north as Aberdeenshire, reports charity Butterfly Conservation. On right experts suggest that eye-catching peacocks are capitalising on rising temperatures by coming out of hibernation earlier. The nettle-loving species has had a recent population boost as they also push northwards. Arsenal 1 - 0 Man Utd
Welsh midfielder Ramsey scores through the outstretched legs of Michael Carrick Arsenal blew the Premier League title race wide open as leaders Manchester United were deservedly beaten at the Emirates Stadium. Aaron Ramsey's winner early in the second half condemned United to defeat and leaves them only three points ahead of Chelsea with identical goal difference - and a meeting between the two to come at Old Trafford next Sunday. Forced to rebuild his promising career after suffering a broken leg, Ramsey made the most of a chance to deputise for injured captain Cesc Fabregas with a goal that will have been met with almost as much joy at Stamford Bridge as it was in front of Arsenal's fans. Victory was well-earned reward for their superiority against a United side that never looked like repeating the heroics of their Champions League semi-final first leg victory against Schalke 04 on Tuesday in Germany. Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger must have thought the fates had conspired against him when they were denied a clear first-half penalty after Nemanja Vidic handled Theo Walcott's cross.
THE ROYAL WEDDING GROUP PHOTO
Kenyan workers get 12.5 pc pay The government has announced a 12.5 per cent pay increment on the basic minimum wage for all workers in the country. Labour Minister John Munyes made the announcement on Sunday during this year's Labour Day celebrations at Nairobi's Uhuru Park. Munyes said the pay hike is in addition to last year's 10 percent bringing the total to 22.5 percent. The Minister further said that the government had put in place measures to develop a wage and income policy to guide future wage and income detrmination which will be linked to the bill of right in the new constitution. The increment comes in the wake of rising cost of living, brought about by the increase in fuel and food prices. It is also a far cry from demands by the Central Organization of Trade Union pushing for a 60-100% increment for minimum wage earners and a 10% general increment. Unlike previous occasions this year's Labour Day celebrations was characterized by low citizen turnout with a majority of government ministers and members of parliament choosing to stay away perhaps apprehensive over remarks by COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli warning of the citizens fury over the rising cost of living with inflation having hit the double digit figure to stand at 12%. The secretary general said the union will issue a strike notice on Tuesday. The event that was characterized by heckling and calls for food and fuel cuts saw Atwoli take a swipe at the government top brass for absconding the celebrations warning of a country wide protest if the government did not meet its demand for a 60 percent minimum wage increment. At the same time he lashed out at members of the Kenya Private Sector Alliance who have since declared they will not honor calls to increase salaries of minimum wage earners. KEPSA last week said it will not be honoring the government's plan of a unilateral wage increment to all workers as proposed. The organization comprising of business persons in the private sector is instead accusing the government and the Central Organization of Trade Union (COTU) of politicizing the issue and failing to consult them in the decision. They say the move is against the law that states that minimum wage increment be effected once in every two years. They also argue that the pay rise will lead to job losses.
Royal couple depart to unknown honeymoon Newlyweds William and Kate are expected to head off to a mystery honeymoon location. The royals will take around two weeks off for the traditional post-wedding holiday. William, now the Duke of Cambridge, has a fortnight's leave from his job as an RAF Search and Rescue helicopter pilot and has reportedly not even told his new wife where they are going. On Friday night William and Kate and 300 close family and friends partied until the early hours at Buckingham Palace to celebrate their marriage. Guests included the Prince of Wales, Duchess of Cornwall and even the Duke's uncle Earl Spencer was said to have been there for part of the event. Kate changed for the evening dinner and dance from her stunning wedding gown by Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen into another stylish dress by the same designer. The royal looked glamorous in a strapless white satin gazar evening gown with a circle skirt and diamante embroidered detail round the waist. She also wore a white angora bolero cardigan. Likely honeymoon destinations for the newlyweds could include Africa - a continent the Duke has a deep affection for. The second in line to the throne could take his wife to countries like Botswana, or Kenya where he proposed to Kate. There has been speculation that a secluded Caribbean island may be another option. The couple could continue their wedding theme of championing the UK and spend part of their break in Scotland where both the Queen and the Prince of Wales have private homes they could use. The future king and his beautiful bride, who will now one day be Queen, pledged their love for one another at Westminster Abbey. Around a million people turned out to celebrate the wedding and those who flocked to witness their Buckingham Palace balcony appearance were treated to not one, but two kisses from the couple. In an unexpected move that delighted the crowds William and Kate left their wedding reception in the Prince of Wales's blue Aston Martin with the prince at the wheel. The sports car was decorated with red, white and blue ribbons, with balloons tied to the back and a rear number plate which read "JU5T WED", all thanks to best man Prince Harry and other family and friends.
Launching of a Charity in South East London Mr. Anthony Thuo the Chairman of South East London Community and Chairman of Muungano Organization with the Committee would like to invite you to the Launching of Charity - Muungano Organization Event Party on Saturday 7th May, 2011 as from 16.00 to 22.00 hours. The event will take place on 2A Gosterwood Road, London SE8 5RA. UK World Evangelism Church Hall, behind KFC. More on www.muunganoorganization.com Buses to the venue are Bus no. 199, 188 and 47 from Canada Water Station. For more information please contact 07951972623 or 07581715822. A Kenyan in the military joined the wedding Meet Simon Kariri, one of the two Kenyans who were guarding the wedding. Simon was standing a few metres from Westminster Abbey while the Kenyan was at St. James Park area during the Royal family on Friday 29th April, 2011. Kariri joined the Royal Navy in 2007 and went to serve at Royal Navy Air Station Yeovil ton, HMS Ark Royal. He hails from Githunguri and works and lives in Portsmouth.
MANCHESTER NIGHTOUT WITH SALIM JUNIOR LIVE IN CONCERT SUNDAY 1st May 2011. May day-UK Labour day-Kenya>>> National day- Tanzania.
US tornadoes: Death toll rises as more bodies found The death toll from the tornadoes that hit the southern US this week has risen to 340, in one of the worst twister outbreaks in the country's history. Soldiers and emergency teams are still searching for bodies and survivors. More than 200 tornadoes were reported across six southern US states on Tuesday and Wednesday. During a visit to Alabama, which bore the brunt of the storms, President Barack Obama said he had "never seen devastation like this". Mr Obama was speaking in Tuscaloosa, an Alabama town hit by a mile-wide (1.6km) tornado on Wednesday. "We are going to do everything we can to help these communities rebuild," Obama said. "We're going to make sure you're not forgotten." President Barack Obama has visited storm-ravaged communities in Alabama as south-eastern US states face up to the aftermath of devastating storms More than 250 people died in Alabama alone - mostly on Wednesday. As many as a million homes and businesses in the state are still without power. The overall death toll across the southern US makes it the second-deadliest tornado outbreak in US history, the Associated Press news agency reports. It says the largest death toll ever was in March 1925, when 747 people were killed in storms that raged through Missouri, Illinois and Indiana. Alabama Governor Robert Bentley said he expected more bodies to be found in the coming days. The mayor of Birmingham, the largest city in the state, told reporters on Friday: "Whole neighbourhoods of housing, just completely gone. Churches, gone. Businesses, gone... [it] seems like a bomb has been dropped." Tornadoes and storms have also caused deaths in Tennessee, Mississippi, Kentucky, Louisiana, Georgia and in Virginia. A state of emergency remains in place in those states.
As the Royals celebrate, others prepare
Mr. & Mrs. Ephraim Muriithi (2nd and 3rd on right) are in UK. The couple from Embu, Kenya are in UK to prepare the wedding their son Mr. James Maganjo (far left) who is marrying Miss Lucy Wanjiku Kahura (far right) daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Kahura (2nd and 3rd right) of Reading, UK. As the wedding of the royal was taking place, both families were meeting in Reading on Friday 29th April, 2011 for their children's wedding preparations. Lucy's parents a welcoming family explained that they were they happy to see their daughter getting married having followed all their steps they wished. "Marriage is not about dowry, it is a matter of a blessing from both parents." Mr. & Mrs. Kahura explained. All guests were very happy at the ceremony and one guest was overheard jokingly asking: "Nîkûrî na kangî mwatigia?" - Mr. and Mrs. Ephraim contact in UK is 07415455285.
EU hits banks with credit default swap probe
The EU probe comes as the 27-nation bloc struggles, along with the United States, to complete a government crackdown under way for months now on the broad, $600 trillion off-exchange derivatives markets, including CDS. "CDS play a useful role for financial markets and for the economy," said the EU's anti-trust commissioner, Joaquin Almunia, in a statement announcing the two-track inquiry. "Recent developments have shown, however, that the trading of this asset class suffers a number of inefficiencies that cannot be solved through regulation alone," he said. Almunia added that a lack of transparency could lead to abusive behaviour and that he hoped the probe would improve financial markets and aid economic recovery. The U.S. Justice Department in 2009 launched an inquiry into anti-competitive practices in the trading, clearing and pricing of CDS in the United States. A spokeswoman for the U.S. Justice Department declined to comment on the EU move. Unlike other derivatives, such as grain or metal futures, credit derivatives are risk transfers. "It's a banking function that's been converted by this small group of banks into a trading instrument," said Karen Shaw-Petrou, managing director at consulting firm Federal Financial Analytics. "The problem is no one knows what anything is worth unless or until the entity against which the CDS is placed defaults ... That's what makes it very opaque," she said. One Million People Cheer William And Kate
Around one million people have lined the streets in central London in celebration of Prince William's wedding to Kate Middleton. Scotland Yard estimated that the hordes crammed on to the streets of the capital peaked at a million. Some 500,000 were in and around The Mall as the Royal couple kissed publicly for the first time after tying the knot. Tens of thousands more had secured their spots nearer to Westminster Abbey to see the Prince and his bride emerge after a fairytale ceremony. Others crammed into Trafalgar Square and Hyde Park to watch the biggest Royal wedding in decades on big screens. Royal fans were rewarded for their hours, and in some cases days, of dedication when the couple left the Abbey. They roared their approval as the Prince and his wife Kate emerged after the ceremony, smiling and waving. Kate and William travelled back to Buckingham Palace in an open-topped carriage despite fears it may rain. And ultimately the downpours never came, with a shaft of sunlight falling across the Mall during the procession. Cheers had erupted from The Mall as the couple officially became husband and wife in front of a congregation of 1,900. Hordes of people again erupted in applause as William and Kate later publicly kissed not once but twice back at the Palace.
Thousands of well-wishers had flocked to the processional route in central London ahead of the wedding. During the ceremony, they joined in to sing the hymns Jerusalem, Guide Me O Thou Great Redeemer and Love Divine, All Loves Excelling. Then, travelling as husband and wife, William and Kate returned the waves and smiled back as they were taken back to the Palace. Prince Harry and Pippa Middleton followed with the rest of the bridal party of page boys and bridesmaids. The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Charles and Camilla and the Middletons also travelled to the palace in coaches. Royalists from all over the UK and the world had travelled to London to take part in the biggest royal event for decades. Many dressed up with tiaras, Kate and William masks or wore their own wedding dresses in case William changed his mind. One large banner held up by people in the crowd read: "Checkmate Kate - you've taken the King!" Thousands also packed into Hyde Park, Green Park and Trafalgar Square to watch the ceremony on big screens. The square turned into a sea of red, white and blue as revellers waved souvenir flags when the ceremony reached its closing stages. Westminster City Council estimated around a million people were on the streets of the capital. Scotland Yard mounted a huge security operation, stopping searching people in a bid to avoid any trouble. Many crowded into Trafalgar Square after giving up trying to find a place on the procession route.
Among the crowds outside Westminster Abbey was Rosanna Stacey, 25, a hospital worker from Norwich. She said: "I think William and Kate are very well matched and think they'll be really good for the Royal Family in general. "I definitely think it matters that William has chosen his bride, rather than her being chosen for him." Housewife Sara Greer, 43, from Hatfield, Hertfordshire, had camped overnight outside the Abbey. She said: "I also came up when the Queen Mum died. I used to really love Diana so now I follow William and Harry. "Now that they're older you can see they are just like their mum. William is putting the great into Great Britain and making people like the Royal Family again." Jacky Williams, 60, from Neath, South Wales, arrived outside the Abbey early this morning. She said: "I've never been up to see anything royal-related, but I just love all the horses and pomp and ceremony. It's very exciting."
She was accompanied by her daughter, Gemma Williams, 29, who is herself getting married next April. She said: "Funnily enough I chose my dress last night. "I would love to be able to say my wedding will be like this." Susan Plonnigs, 44, from Bastrop, Louisiana, said: "We booked our flights as soon as the date of the wedding was announced. "I've been planning it ever since Diana's funeral - I said to my brother 'We'll have to come back for Will's wedding'. "I was a huge Princess Diana fan, I think she did a great job of raising the boys and I think she would approve of Kate. "I don't think she will fill Princess Diana's shoes but I think she will fill a void that's been left in the Royal Family. "William really deserves happiness and I think he's found it with Kate. "There's so much bad in the world, it's good to have something good going on."
Kate arrives for her royal wedding to Prince William
Kate Middleton has arrived at Westminster Abbey for her marriage to Prince William. Some 1,900 people were invited to the church service and thousands of people camped out overnight on the procession route the couple will take to Buckingham Palace after the service. The couple are to use an open-topped carriage for the procession. - VIDEO Royal wedding: London crowds share in couple's happy day
Prince William and Kate Middleton, now the Duchess of Cambridge, have been married at Westminster Abbey in London. Around a million spectators watched the royal procession on the streets of London on 29 April. Some had camped out for days for the best viewing spots. Daniela Relph spent the day with the crowds on the Mall. - VIDEO
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Royal wedding street parties across the UK
Prince William and Kate Middleton, now the Duchess of Cambridge, have been married at Westminster Abbey in London. Around a million people lined the streets of London to catch a glimpse of the couple and hundreds of millions of people were estimated to have watched the proceedings worldwide on television. Prime Minister David Cameron has held a street party at Downing Street and party scenes have been replicated in streets, squares, pubs and churches across the UK. - VIDEO Balcony kisses seal royal wedding
Prince William and his newly titled bride the Duchess of Cambridge have shared a kiss on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, as more than a million people descend on central London for the occasion. They were cheered by 500,000 well-wishers who gathered outside the palace, as RAF planes flew past in honour of the new royal couple. Police estimate a million people lined the procession route from the abbey to the palace. Here's the story of the day as told by the BBC's commentary team led by Huw Edwards. - VIDEO
Kenya to issue visas electronically The Ministry of Immigration is set to roll out an electronic visa application system. Deputy Secretary for Immigration Joseph Keter says the system will reduce physical contact between the applicants and the personnel at the ministry while speeding up the process of acquiring visas. The system is also of help especially for applicants in countries in South America and Asia who have often found it difficult to access their travel document in good time. Keter noted that the move will also have a multiplier effect with the government reducing expenditure while increasing revenue collection. Keter who addressed a sensitization workshop for senior staff from the ministry of immigration organized by the National Anti-Corruption Campaign Steering Committee, said among a raft of measures aimed at streamlining operations at the ministry will also be the introduction of the electronic birth certificate application system. Keter said this will help to reduce the time spent by parents seeking to have their children's birth registrations done. He said in three years, the Local Area Network will be in place connecting the central office in Nairobi to all the 47 counties together with the development of the national integrated population system upgrade that will enable the new service to come into effect. And the Steering Committee Director Dr Hukka Wario appealed to the public to stop viewing immigrants negatively, but as an important component of economic development of the country. "We have already welcomed investors into the country and those who are investing in large sums of capital ought to be seen as helping in the development of the country and not merely as immigrants," said Dr Wario. Vice Chairperson Rose Olende called on the public to change their perception of the ministry of immigration and instead seek the requisite documents in good time to reduce inconveniences that are at times blamed on corruption.
SOME OF THE UK PAPERS
PASTOR ODIMA'S FATHER MEMORIAL ON SAT. 30TH APRIL
The father of Pastor Joseph Odima of Abundant Life Fire Ministry (U.K.) has passed on to glory to be with the Lord. Family and friends are all meeting in prayers every evening from 7pm at Pastor Odimas residence. 67 Haskard Road, Dagenham, Essex, RM9 5XR. MEMORIAL SERVICE and FUNDRAISING SATURDAY 30TH APRIL FROM 5:00 PM AT REVIVAL HOUSE (IWRM) 500 HIGH STREET NORTH LONDON E12 6QN. FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT PASTOR ODIMA ON 07944827781 OR PASTOR EUNICE ODIMA ON 07944815755.
KIKUYU PROVERB Nyenje îrî gûtû îhang'agia mwene It is one the victim who is having a cockroach in his ear know how it hurts In pictures: Eve of the royal wedding
MANY SLEPT IN THE STREETS IN ORDER TO CAPTURE THE MOMENT
Larry the Downing Street cat gets into the spirit of the occasion as he paces across the cabinet table at Number 10 in a union jack bow tie and on right Prime Minister David Cameron studies a royal wedding mug on a visit to Portmeirion Potteries in Stoke-on-Trent.
Deadly Storms Tear Through South
April 28: John Boxmeyer climbs through the rubble of a home where he was helping friends recover belongings on in Tuscaloosa, Ala. The storm demolished a neighborhood near the University of Alabama campus. PLEASANT GROVE, Ala. -- Dozens of tornadoes ripped through the South, flattening homes and businesses and killing at least 248 people in six states in the deadliest outbreak in nearly 40 years. As day broke Thursday, people in hard-hit Alabama surveyed flattened, debris-strewn neighborhoods and told of pulling bodies from rubble after the storms passed Wednesday afternoon and evening. "It happened so fast it was unbelievable," said Jerry Stewart, a 63-year-old retired firefighter who was picking through the remains of his son's wrecked home in Pleasant Grove, a suburb of Birmingham. "They said the storm was in Tuscaloosa and it would be here in 15 minutes. And before I knew it, it was here." He and his wife, along with their daughter and two grandchildren, survived by hiding under their front porch. Friends down the street who did the same weren't so lucky -- Stewart said he pulled out the bodies of two neighbors whose home was ripped off its foundation. Alabama's state emergency management agency said it had confirmed 162 deaths, while there were 32 in Mississippi, 32 in Tennessee, 13 in Georgia, eight in Virginia and one in Kentucky. President Barack Obama said he would travel to Alabama on Friday to view storm damage and meet with the governor and affected families.The National Weather Service's Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Okla., said it received 137 tornado reports into Wednesday night.
A LUO PROVERB Chien kiyany. One's background or origin is never insulted or abused. One's beginning is what makes one what one is, and should be viewed with respect.
PRE-WEDDING PARTY Zeph (Boro) and Marie and the organising committee kindly invite you to their Pre-Wedding party to be held on 30th April 2011 starting 5pm. The venue is Houghton Regis Leisure Centre (Kingsland College), Parkside drive, Houghton Regis, Dunstable, LU5 5PY. The Guests of Honour will be: -Pastor Ann Mwiluki - Jesus Celebration Ministries. - Misterseed - Vicky Wambui - Patrick Moiyoro - Slough - George Muigai - Luton - Geoffrey Kabochi (koki) - Chessington - Edwin Achola (edu) - Luton - Peter Martins - Harlow Essex - Kubz - Feltham - Sam Gichoya - London. Assisted by you and me.
Your presence and Prayers will be most appreciated. God Bless you as you prepare to come. Thankyou
RSVP Zeph 07898248575 Mary 07853034909 Mr Juma 07930395861.
Royal wedding: William greets fans ahead of wedding
Prince William has gone on an impromptu walkabout ahead of his wedding to Kate Middleton to meet royal watchers gathered near Buckingham Palace. He spent several minutes shaking hands, chatting and posing for pictures telling the well-wishers: "All I've got to do is get the lines right." The couple say they have been "incredibly moved" by public reaction. In a message in their official wedding programme they thanked "everyone most sincerely for their kindness". During Friday's Westminster Abbey ceremony Miss Middleton will vow to "love, comfort, honour and keep" Prince William but will not vow to obey him. The service will be the epitome of "Britishness", St James's Palace said. VisitBritain has predicted more than 600,000 people will be on the streets to watch Friday's events and several hundred are already camping out in tents and sleeping bags outside the abbey and in The Mall. - VIDEO
3 men killed, bodies burnt with acid Nairobi, Kenya, 28th April, 2011 - Three people were on Thursday killed and their bodies burnt with acid in Kiserian, on the outskirts of Nairobi. Witnesses told police the bodies were discovered sprawled on the roadside at the junction of Magadi and Kiserian roads. Police officers who visited the scene said two of the men had bullet wounds in the head while another was hacked to death. "We have looked at the bodies, it appears they were killed and acid poured on their bodies, we have not been able to establish circumstances under which they were killed," area divisional Police chief Farah Mohammed said. Mr Mohammed said one of the bodies had been scorched with acid on the private parts while another was badly burnt on the chest. "It is a mystery which will need to be thoroughly investigated. For now detectives are still gathering any clues to help in the investigation," he told Capital News at the scene. Police estimate that the men are aged between 18 and 25 years. Mr Mohammed told Capital News they were also seeking to establish if the men were killed at the scene or were just dumped on the roadside. "We are also interested to know if they come from this area. So far, no one has been able to identify them," he added. - CapitalFM
"THE LAW" IS BREAKING THE LAW
The Kenya Shillings depreciates to it lowest as the exchange in London climbs to KShs. 134 and in Nairobi Kshs. 144.69 against the pound Obama releases 'long form' birth certificate But fringe "birther" theorists have insisted Mr Obama was actually born in his father's native Kenya
The White House has released President Barack Obama's birth certificate, in response to persistent rumours he was not born in the US. Mr Obama had previously released an official "certification of live birth" showing he was born in Hawaii. But fringe "birther" theorists have insisted Mr Obama was actually born in his father's native Kenya, making him ineligible to be president. Recently potential Republican candidate Donald Trump has revived the rumour. 'Silliness'On Wednesday, Mr Obama described the unprecedented move as an effort to rid the US political debate of a distraction, saying he had watched, puzzled and bemused, as the birther conspiracy had built and developed over the past years. He described the matter as a "sideshow" and its proponents as "carnival barkers". "We do not have time for this kind of silliness," Mr Obama said. "We've got better stuff to do. I have better stuff to do. We've got big problems to solve, and I'm confident we can solve them, but we're going to have to focus on them - not on this." The release of Mr Obama's long form birth certificate, which had been stored in a bound volume among the records of the Hawaii Department of Health since his birth in August 1961, comes after years of speculation among conspiracy-minded conservatives. Under the US constitution, only a "natural born citizen" - a clause widely interpreted to mean born in the US or in some cases to US citizens abroad - is eligible to be president.
Barack Obama: "We've had every official in Hawaii...confirm that yes in fact I was born in Hawaii" Trump's birther hype The birther conspiracy held that Mr Obama was born in Kenya or in Indonesia, where he lived as a child, or that the birth certificate revealed other unwholesome information about the president. Barack Obama: "We've had every official in Hawaii...confirm that yes in fact I was born in Hawaii" During the 2008 presidential campaign Mr Obama released a computer print-out of the birth certificate information that is recognised as an official record of his birth - on passport applications, for instance - and Hawaiian public health officials vouched for its authenticity. But the move did little to quell the birthers, even as most mainstream Republicans have sought to quash the movement, calling it a distraction from substantive policy disagreements. New York real estate entrepreneur and reality television star, meanwhile, has publicly flirted with a Republican presidential bid in recent weeks, founded in large part by stoking questions about Mr Obama's origins. And on Wednesday, Mr Trump took credit for forcing Mr Obama's hand. "I've accomplished something that nobody else has been able to accomplish," Mr Trump told reporters. "He should have done it a long time ago." The White House released copies of the original birth certificate, with a stamp verifying its authenticity. White House officials said they had been given a waiver by Hawaii public health officials, as the state's policy in general bars release of long-form birth certificates. Birthers unsatisfied The document shows Barack Hussein Obama II was born 4 August 1961 at Kapiolani Maternity and Gynecological Hospital in Honolulu, to Barack Hussein Obama, a 25-year-old student, and Stanley Ann Dunham, 18, and includes the signature of the attending physician. It remains unclear whether the release of the birth certificate will satisfy the most hard-core birthers. Joseph Farah, chief executive of birther-orientated website WorldNetDaily.com, said on the site the document "raises as many questions as it answers". "It is important to remember there are still dozens of other questions concerning this question of eligibility... concerning Barack Obama's parentage, his adoption, his citizenship status throughout his life and why he continues to cultivate a culture of secrecy around his life," he said.
TANZANIA {national day} & KENYA READING, UK {Labour day} Night Out Sun 1st May 2011… It's All About dinner & dance +Style
We know how important it is to host the perfect party for you. To help make your May day bank holiday weekend to be Very special, we've highlighted tips for creating this Big Event like never before on Sunday 1st May Bank holiday week end Tanzania {National day} Kenya {Labour day} plenty of nyama choma + tusker beer ,will be served all night, as well as hints for satisfying The Best dressed couple to get free bottle of champagne &The Finest DJs from Kenya and Tanzania Djz Collo, Richie dee + guest djs will be playing your Best tunes from motherland 2 Make sure every one is happy so Tel a friend to Tel a friend this is going to be BIG It's All About Get Together party KENYAN & TANZANIAN NIGHTOUT!!!!
KIKUYU PROVERB Mwere mwega ûmenyagwo na ngetho The best millet is discovered during the harvest
UK recovery stalling as construction plummets
The worst slide for Britain's builders since the depths of the recession in 2009 pegged back the UK's fragile recovery in the first three months of this year, official figures showed on Wednesday 27th April, 2011. The eagerly anticipated estimate from the Office for National Statistics revealed 0.5% expansion for the UK, but a 4.7% dive for the construction industry in the first quarter knocked 0.3 percentage points off wider economic growth. Despite bouncebacks for larger services and manufacturing firms, expanding 0.9% and 1.1%, the overall figures mean Britain's recovery is back where it started six months ago, as growth simply wiped out the shock 0.5% decline in the final quarter of last year. Charles Davis, managing economist at the Centre for Economics and Business Research, warned that UK output was still languishing at levels seen five years ago and was 4% below its pre-recession peak in 2008 after effectively stalling over the past two quarters. "The UK recovery still has a long way to go," he said. The figure is well below the Office for Budget Responsibility's 0.8% forecast for the period and puts its prediction for 1.7% growth in 2011 overall under severe pressure. Relief that even weaker growth failed to materialise helped the pound gain half a cent against the dollar to $1.6518, although markets do not expect the Bank of England to raise interest rates until November. Barclays Capital economist Chris Crowe added: "For an economy that is supposed to be recovering from an unprecedented downturn, this is really a very poor result, particularly with the full impact of the government's austerity plans still to be felt." But experts also questioned the steep fall for construction, coming against a snow-hit pre-Christmas period which brought the industry grinding to a halt. Ernst & Young Item Club economic adviser Andrew Goodwin said the numbers were "frankly bizarre", while the Construction Products Association said the "extremely surprising" figures came against a backdrop of strong industry surveys and exceptionally mild weather during the period. The association expects industry output to fall this year and next, before finally returning to growth in 2013. The figures came as the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry also warned of "disappointing" trading by businesses in the capital this year. Fewer than half of firms expect prospects to improve over the months ahead, compared with 53% three months ago, while businesses are more downbeat over growth and worried over inflation. Deputy chief executive Peter Bishop said: "The first three months of the year were frankly a disappointment as companies in the capital endured lukewarm trading conditions."
METHALI YA KISWAHILI HOTUBA NI FEDHA NA KIMYA NI THAHABU Speech is Silver and silence is Gold Prince William And Catherine Middleton Lookalikes Compete To Win Free Flights
LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 27: Contestants take part in a Prince William and Catherine Middleton lookalike competition organised by the airline Easyjet on April 27, 2011 in London, England. The contestants from across Europe were judged on their hand waving, bowing and curtsying skills as well as their looks. On right contestants take part in a Prince William and Catherine Middleton lookalike competition organised by the airline Easyjet on April 27, 2011 in London, England. The contestants from across Europe were judged on their hand waving, bowing and curtsying skills as well as their looks. Kenya Government announces measures to curb rising cost of living The government has removed all taxes and levies on kerosene, wheat and maize to cushion Kenyans from the high cost of living. Prime Minister Raila Odinga on Wednesday outlined both short-term and long-term measures to address the economic challenges Kenyans are currently facing. For immediate relief, the Government has removed all taxes and levies on Kerosene, to reduce the cost of light and cooking energy. This will reduce kerosene price by Ksh 5.66 per litre, in addition to the reduction of Ksh2 per litre announced by the Treasury last week. This will amount to a total reduction of Ksh7.66 per litre. Giving a statement in Parliament during the PM's regular time, The PM assured Kenyans that the government would continue to implement a strong package of measures to cushion the poor and vulnerable. He said an appropriate legislation will be introduced in Parliament as soon as possible to effect the measures. "I expect that this House will act with utmost urgency, so that Kenyans receive this much needed relief very soon," said the PM. In addition, the Government has also removed import duty on wheat and maize imported by private millers. "We have directed the National Cereals and Produce Board to provide its storage facilities for use by private millers who import wheat or maize. The Government itself will not import wheat or maize," he told MPs. Given the high international prices of commodities, the PM said duty free import of maize and wheat will not adversely affect local farmers. "Rather, together with the available stock of maize, private import will make sure that there will be adequate supply of maize throughout the year. The Ministry of Agriculture estimates that 23 million bags of maize currently exist in stock. This includes about 3 million bags held at the NCPB," he added. Besides expanding the famine relief assistance to cover more people and regions, the government has also waived secondary school fees in drought hit areas. "A total of 4 million people will be covered up from the current 2.4 million people. We are working on improved coordination and logistics with development partners," the Premier said. Wage demand The government has further bowed to pressure from Central Organization of Trade Union (COTU) and agreed to increase the minimum wage for government workers to be announced on Labour Day. Though the PM did not specify the percentage, he said such increment should have come after two years, but would be implemented now to address the sharp rise in the cost of living. COTU had threatened to mobilize workers to go on strike if the government does not honor its demand for a 60 percent wage increase by May 1. He further said the government intends to shift from cost of living wage adjustments to productivity based wage adjustments adding that resources are being provided by the Ministry of Labour to set up a productivity centre. He said a Memorandum on the Implementation of a Comprehensive Targeted Food Subsidy is already before Cabinet to support the food insecure populations in urban areas. Once this proposal is approved by Cabinet he said, the government will expand the pilot programmes to providing Ksh 2000 per month to 100,000 people in 6 informal settlements in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu. He added: "In order to assure long-term sustainability of this and other social protection programmes, the Treasury has been instructed to propose a package of tax measures that will be sufficient to fund these programmes in the long-run, but also that will not impact the poor negatively". On Youth Employment, the government has decided to re-launch the Kazi Kwa Vijana programme, and continue with most of the Economic Stimulus Programmes. Raila said the KKV II (Kenya Youth Empowerment Programme) will be implemented jointly with the World Bank. Under this program, the World Bank is providing $60 million. "Out of this, US$43 million is funding 1,200 labour intensive projects at district level across the country. These will employ 190,000 youths in the 18-35 age bracket. Another US$15.5 million will fund an internship programme for 16,000 urban youth in the 15-29 age bracket," he said. Reacting to the PM's announcement, several MPs, however, demanded that the government adopts immediate measures to address the problem arguing that many Kenyans were suffering as a result of an increase in fuel and food prices. They said there is need for the government to fully operationalize the policy guiding the prices of commodities. Under the constitution the government is mandated to reduce the price of kerosene by 30% and that of Diesel by 20%. Last week, finance minister Uhuru Kenyatta announced that the government would remove excise duty on kerosene and diesel in a move that brought the prices of the two commodities down by two shillings. However, many felt this was not enough as the price of fuel had earlier this month been increased by nine shillings, taking the price of the commodities to unprecedented high levels.
Royal wedding: Westminster Abbey 360 tour
Westminster Abbey is over 900 years old and and one of the most important churches in England. It has been the setting for many coronations and royal weddings. Explore the image below with Blue Badge guide Judy Pulley, who provides audio and text commentary. - VIDEO Wills and Kate's final rehearsal: Royal couple run through wedding service
Trial run: the 1902 State Landau carriage that will carry the royal couple from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace in The Mall on Wednesday 27th April, 2011 Kate Middleton and Prince William were back together today to hold last-minute rehearsals as the final countdown to Friday's royal wedding got under way. Miss Middleton drove from the family home in Bucklebury to Clarence House, where the couple were said to have met the Dean of Westminster Abbey for a run-through of the wedding service. The bride-to-be, 29, set off from Berkshire at 8.45am - the last time she will leave home as a single woman - with only her police protection officer for company. She greeted her fiancé, 28, at his London residence for the meeting with Dr John Hall, who will conduct the service and be the first to welcome her when she arrives at the abbey with her father on Friday. The couple are also expected to rehearse their vows at the abbey before the big day. A royal spokesman said: "There will be final preparations happening over the last couple of days." With less than 48 hours to go, a growing band of spectators from across the world set up camp outside Westminster Abbey as teams of florists arrived to decorate it in "unpretentious" white, green and cream foliage to reflect the bride's English country style.
A Kenyan Restaurant opening in Glasgow City Centre soon. WATCH THIS SPACE Kajwang on the spot over work permits
Immigration minister Otieno Kajwang was on Wednesday taken to task by parliament over the issuance of work permits to foreigners. Kajwang is being accused of overlooking Kenyans and allowing foreigners who have no skills to take up jobs that can be performed by locals. Kajwang has however defended his ministry saying he was merely facilitating investors and those granted work permits were duly vetted by various arms of the government and the issuance carried out under the immigration act and international agreements. The minister was put on the spot over the issuance of 26-thousand work permits to foreigners. Of major concern was the granting of 10-thousand such permits to Indians to work in the country in low cadre jobs including as shop attendants. Parliamentarians claimed the immigration department was riddled with cartels who are cashing in on the issuance of permits. MPs wondered why Indians who have no skills were being granted authority to work in the country yet Kenyans can be sourced for the same jobs. But Kajwang defended his actions saying all those granted work permits were duly vetted by various government agents. He said in other instances, some of the so called lesser jobs cannot be done by Kenyans saying even in his Mbita constituency he found it hard to employ an earthmover operator since no one had the expertise to operate the machines. He said Kenyans were also working elsewhere in the world and have interests in several countries hence Kenya cannot shut its doors to those who want to come and invest here since they too create thousands of jobs for the locals.
Karua launches Presidential bid
Gichugu Member of Parliament Martha Karua has officially launched her bid for the presidency in 2012. The Narc Kenya leader declared her intention to vie for the presidency at the Leakey auditorium at the National Museums of Kenya. Addressing the gathering, the iron lady pledged to move the country's leadership beyond the unending political rhetoric. The former Justice Minister did not invite politicians to the launch apart from her ally Garsen MP Danson Mungatana. Karua's slogan is TUJITOKEZE aimed at reaching voters at low levels. She spelt out her priorities which include food security, Education, speedy implementation of the new constitution and resettlement of Internally Displaced Persons among other issues of national importance if given the mantle to lead this country.
Girl with X-ray eyes sees through stone and metal A pretty teenager has stunned experts with her bizarre white eyes - which let her see through solid stone and metal! Laura Castro was born normal but developed pure white eyes at the age of 10. The Miami, Fla., child has been studied by eye doctors and other experts, but none can explain what causes her rare condition. "The doctors say they're never seen anything like this," said the child's mother, divorcee Anabel Castro. "My daughter can see anywhere in daylight or in darkness, and she can easily see through solid objects. The doctors say she may have been hit on the head or exposed to chemicals or something. "All I know is that this came on gradually and that as her brown eyes got lighter and lighter her vision got stronger and stronger." Scientists who have studied the X-ray girl anonymously confessed that she can see clearly through 4-inch thick concrete, a steel safe, solid rock walls and thick layers of wood, plastic and paper, including a telephone book! Examination of her eyes reveals no striking differences other than the fact that the pupil and iris are completely white. According to Mrs. Castro, Laura first began showing signs of her rare condition shortly after her 10th birthday in 2005. The little girl's dark brown eyes turned golden color, then gradually faded to white. "I was real worried and I took her to doctors but they all said Laura's eyes were normal," Mrs. Castro recalled. "Then she began seeing through things. "She woke up one morning and she could see through her own body. She could see her own heart beating and she was screaming. That really scared us." The panic wore off after a few months, Mrs. Castro says, when Laura adjusted to her new X-ray vision. Since then, the child's only complaint is that her schoolmates avoid her because of her looks. "I tell her that she is special and that one day she will be very famous," Mrs. Castro says. Doctors have yet to verify Mrs. Castro's claims on her daughter's abilities, however she provided Weekly World News reporters with the photo above of Laura being examined. US Midwest hit by floods and tornadoes
Destruction remains after strong storms passed through Birmingham, Ala., and surrounding areas during the early morning hours of Wednesday, April 27, 2011. Many power lines and trees litter the streets of Cahaba Heights and on right Stephanie Ward carries items out of her home in Evansville, Ind., Wednesday, April 27, 2011. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings) Severe weather has crippled parts of the US Midwest in a spate of relentless storms that have unleashed tornadoes, heavy rains, and massive flooding from Texas to Kentucky. In Arkansas, a series of powerful storms killed eight people in flooding and a tornado. In Poplar Bluff, Missouri 1,000 homes were evacuated from high floodwaters. Local police went door-to-door encouraging people to get out. Officials said sandbagging was not an option as there were too many trouble spots along the town's levee, and it was too dangerous. At least 150 people sought shelter at the town's Black River Coliseum, a 5,000-seat concert and meeting venue that overlooks the swollen river and a park that is already under water. Many chose to stay in their homes while others moved in with friends and relatives. Meanwhile, residents in several central US states braced themselves for a second straight night of violent weather as forecasters again predicted twisters to hammer the region. The National Weather Service issued a high risk warning for severe weather in a stretch extending from northeast of Memphis to just northeast of Dallas and covering a large swath of Arkansas. In Utica in Indiana whole neighbourhoods were flooded. Storms have ripped through parts of middle America for weeks, followed on Monday by heavy rain and tornadoes that pelted a widespread area crossing several Midwestern and plains states. - - VIDEO
Kevin Upchurch, left, and Mark Hanners navigate down a flooded street Wednesday, April 27, 2011, in Commerce, Mo. Powerful storms that swept through the nation's midsection have pushed river levels to dangerous heights and are threatening to flood several towns in Missouri. On right William Hart stands next to the only remaining corner of his home in Tiftonia, Tenn., Wednesday, April 27, 2011 after strong storms came through the area, causing widespread damage. He huddled with his three-year-old son, Liam Hart, until the storms passed. - (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)
Michael Lyons, of Bowling Green, Ky., a construction worker with Insight, examines a car Tuesday, April 26, 2011, that was crushed by a tree on College St. as a result of storms and on right Ken Sanders, son-in-law of Jay and Carla Arendal, takes a rest while helping to look for items to keep after a tornado destroyed the Arendal's home on Tuesday, April 26, 2011, in Vilonia, Ark. The couple was in the home and both survived. The National Weather Service issued a high risk warning for severe weather in a stretch extending from northeast of Memphis to just northeast of Dallas and covering a large swath of Arkansas. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
Two principals meet over rising cost of living
President Mwai Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga at Harambee House Tuesday held consultations on the economic challenges facing the country. In particular, the two leaders discussed the escalating cost of fuel and food and reassured Kenyans that the government will undertake measures to address the economic challenges. The President and the Prime Minister also discussed issues on youth unemployment and measures the Government will undertake to create more jobs and also safeguard the existing from the vagaries of the current economic challenges. The two Principals affirmed that the government will also find ways of financing the Economic Stimulus Programme to enhance employment for the youth. The PM will Wednesday present to Parliament the Government's further plans of action to arrest the escalating food, fuel, transportation prices and other aspects of the economy that have led to higher cost of living. He will make the presentation during the regular Prime Minister's Time in Parliament. Fielding questions from journalists at his office in Nairobi after giving a detailed brief on his two weeks official tour in the US and Europe, Raila acknowledged that many Kenyans have been hurt by the high cost of living. "The situation is critical and cannot be left unattended to. It requires a suitable solution that we will address in parliament on Wednesday," said the PM without elaborating the steps the State would take to ensure food and fuel prices come down. Last week, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Uhuru Kenyatta, and Energy Minister Kiraitu Murungi announced the reduction of excise duty on Kerosene and diesel by 30 and 20 per cent respectively in a bid to cushion Kenyans against the soaring prices. But their attempts met with street protests in Nairobi and Mombasa organized by consumer organizations who dismissed the move as inconsequential as it lowered prices of Kerosene by a mere Sh2.
World's Oldest Man Dies Aged 114 In America
The world's oldest man, who once said "you're born to die", has passed away at the age of 114 in the US. Walter Breuning, a retired railworker, died on Thursday at a Montana hospital, according to nursing home spokeswoman Stacia Kirby. He was 27 days younger than the world's oldest person, Besse Cooper. Mr Breuning had lived at the Rainbow Senior Living retirement home since 1980 and attributed his long life to eating only two meals a day for the past 35 years. In an interview last year, he also attributed his longevity to working as long as he could and always embracing change - especially death. "We're all going to die. Some people are scared of dying. Never be afraid to die because you're born to die," he said. Democratic governor of Montana, Brian Schweitzer, said: "I am deeply saddened by the loss of my dear friend and a great Montanan. "Walter taught me that all things in moderation will help lead to a long life; that hard work and a modest living are enough for a happy life and most importantly that giving back to others is good for the soul." Born in the town of Melrose, Minnesota, on September 21, 1896, Mr Bruening moved to Great Falls in 1918, where he found work with Great Northern Railway and remained there for 50 years. He married co-worker Agnes Twokey, who died in 1957 after 35 years of marriage. The couple did not have any children and Mr Breuning never remarried. Retiring in 1963, aged 67, he stuck to his philosophy and continued to work as a manager and secretary for Shriners, a position he held until he was 99-years-old. In recent years, Mr Breuning also attracted a following, appearing on News Hour with Jim Lehrer in 2009 and participating in a question-and-answer segment in the magazine Men's Journal. He was officially listed in the Guinness Book of World Records 2011 edition as the world's oldest living man. He had inherited the title from England's Henry Allingham, who passed away at the age of 113 in July 2009. Michael Sheen performs in Passion play in Port Talbot
Actor Martin Sheen is "crucified" in day three of the Passion play taking place across his home Town of Port Talbot and on right Actor Martin Sheen is "crucified" in day three of the Passion play taking place across his home Town of Port Talbot. - 24/04/2011 Revealed: Britons tortured Kenyans to keep jobs
The brutality meted on hapless Kenyans during the dark days of the liberation struggle have been unmasked with chilling revelations about the cruelty of some administrators and the pains they went through to mask their acts. Colonial administrators were determined to subvert justice to preserve their positions, which wielded immense powers, recently-released letters that were exchanged by panicked civil servants have shown. In a war where brothers were pitted against brothers, at times friendly fire was exchanged with deadly consequences after 5th KAR massacred 20 home guards in Chuka, Meru, between June 17 and 18, 1953.
Shocking findings Although details about the massacre are scanty, the matter was hushed up in Government quarters, explained away as the consequent of contact with Mau Mau, until a former MP Dingle Foot conducted investigations whose findings were shocking. The investigator found out that the 20 had been shot dead by KAR, and the Government was forced to compensate the families of the deceased with 105 pounds. But the investigations opened floodgates, which sent chills down the spines of administrators, especially in Central Province, where torture methods had been redefined. A senior civil servant, CM Johnson, spilt the beans in a letter dated June 20,1956, when he wrote, "What does worry me is an enquiry into an incident which occurred prior to the Amnesty of June 18, 1955… "I have no doubt with the return of detainees to the land unit, we shall have increasing number of allegations against members of the administration." The administrators felt they should not be held responsible for the deaths and maiming of their colleagues and suggested non-compliance with any demands that any Government arm should probe such cases.
Travesty of justice Johnson suggested that to boost the morale of royalists in the colony, he would not comply with any inquiries and urged his colleagues to do the same. Some administrators were appalled by the idea that former detainees would lodge accusations of mistreatment, maiming and killing of the colleagues by some rulers, perceiving this as a travesty of justice. One such detainee, Gabelene Kariuki Ng’ang’a, exposed some of the harsh punishments given to prisoners. Ng’ang’a testified before an inquiry conducted by Lamu DO M E W North, how he was clobbered by a white Government officer, identified as Northcott, on April 8, 1957, forced to kiss his boots and even dragged out of a dispensary where he had gone for treatment.
Looking insolent The detainee testified that he had been ordered to proceed to the mess when he encountered Northcott, who stopped him and accused him of looking insolent and rained blows on him as he demanded that he fight back to prove he was a man. At the dispensary, the detainee met his tormentor’s wife, Mrs Northcott, who repeatedly punched him on his bandaged spots. "When I was taken to the sleeping quarters, the officer came to inquire how I was feeling. I told him I was not well. He attacked me again. He did the same hours later," Ng’ang’a testified. Later when he learnt the drill, the detainee said he was okay and was spared the beating but not before he was pulled out of his bed and made to sleep on the floor and to do two-hour manual work until he was saved by the DC, when he was sent to hospital. – The Standard.
An excellent Easter performance
Hellenah Ken (Kitheka) - left - performing live at Living Fountain Ministries, Dagenham on Sunday 24th April, 2011.This was a performance full of fire and blessings. She was joined by local gospel artists, Rachel Njeri (centre) and Joyce Muturi. Hellenah’s contact (07983236317). If you would like to experience the same blessings, please join her in one of the following venues:
Panic as elephants invade farms in Taita Taveta
Herds of marauding elephants estimated at 500 have invaded several parts of Taita-Taveta County spreading fear and panic among the local residents besides denying them the cheer that comes with Easter holidays. The elephants straying from Tsavo West National Park and the Lumo Community Wildlife Sanctuary have for the last one week been terrorizing residents and destroying crops in Mwakitau and Mwanda locations in Mwatate and Taita districts. A villager who the local provincial administration officials identified as Willian Ikutu is nursing serious injuries after one of the elephants attacked him while working on his farm in Mwakitau area. The area Chief Crispus Mnyika said the jumbos had imposed a virtual curfew in five villages as the locals had no choice but to stay indoors. Mr. Mnyika said local residents had suffered massive crop losses following widespread wildlife destruction of maize, beans, cowpeas and pawpaws among other crops. According to official estimates, over 100 acres under drought recovery crops had so far been destroyed amid fears that the animals may cause further havoc if not controlled and thus complicate the food security in the area even further. The Tsavo West Senior Warden Samuel Rukaria confirmed the invasion and said a major air and ground operation to drive the elephants back to their habitat had started. The operation involves the deployment of an aircraft, four vehicles and at least 50 game rangers from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) problem animal control unit. Mr. Rukaria asked residents in the operation area to remain indoors to avert mishaps until the completion of the exercise expected to take the whole day. The warden said KWS was doing everything possible to contain the persistent wildlife menace in the area even as local residents and leaders accused the organization of doing very little to protect them and their property against wildlife attacks. The latest invasion comes after the just concluded elephant collaring exercise which involved the tagging of eight jumbos with special communications gadgets to help in monitoring their movement in a bid to curb persistent human-wildlife conflicts in the county.
REV. TIMOTHY NJOYA ON FIRE
Rev. Timony Njoya knocked down by police during the Moi’s administration where some of his fingers were broken. The price of democracy. - VIDEO
We should pray for a Kenyan lady in Coventry who had a car accident on Sunday 24th April, 2011. Sources say that she dropped her husband in the hospital and on her way back she had an accident where she knocked and killed a child. She need our support and prayers. Pastor Mwaura and Blessed father memorial on Wednesday 27th April 2011
Pastor Patrick Mwaura of Dagenham, Essex has lost his father, Mzee John Njoroge Mukiri of Thakwa village; Githunguri; Kiambu. He was the beloved husband of Mwalimu Beth Njeri Njoroge. He is the father to Hannah Wambui and Leah Wanjiku of Houston, Texas, USA and Mukiri Blessed, Pauline Muthoni Kamau, Gladys Wanjiru and Maggy Wangui all in Kenya. He was a grandfather to many. He died on the morning of Saturday, the 16th of April 2011 after an illness courageously borne in dignity, strengthened by his belief in the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Family and friends are meeting for prayers starting from 7 p.m.at Pastor Mwaura’s residence, 199 Stamford Road, Dagenham, Essex, RM9 4EL. A memorial and thanksgiving service to celebrate his life shall be held on Wednesday the 27th April at IWRM Church, REVIVAL HOUSE, 500 High Street North, London, E12 6QN starting promptly at 6 p.m. For more information please contact Mama Njoroge on 07930601283.
Kenyan MPs to begin debate on key bills
Parliament is expected to commence debate on a Bill seeking to establish a new electoral and boundaries body when it resumes its business Tuesday after the Easter holiday. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission Bill is lined up for debate Tuesday afternoon, alongside the Salaries and Remuneration Commission Bill. Debate on the bill was deferred last week to allow MPs to discuss the rising food and fuel prices. The House has already missed the March deadline for legislation on the Supreme Court. IEBC Bill seeks to create a nine-member electoral body that would oversee next year's General Election and future ones. According to the bill, the chairperson and vice chairperson of the proposed body shall serve for a single term of six years and shall not be eligible for re-appointment. IEBC will replace the Interim Independent Electoral Commission, formed as a transitional body after the Electoral Commission of Kenya was disbanded following the disputed 2007 General Election. Head of Public Service Francis Muthaura has directed ministries to cooperate with institutions monitoring implementation of the Constitution as the August 27 deadline nears. MPs are racing against time to pass some 27 Bills in the next four months that the Constitution requires are enacted within a year. According to the first quarterly report of the Commission for the Implementation of the Constitution (CIC), MPs are also likely to miss the deadlines for April and May. A Kenyan hopes to win a seat in Canada
A Kenyan born preacher living in Canada is among hundreds of candidates vying for seat in the country’s federal elections due next month. Rev George Okoth Otura, a former youth leader in both Ford-Kenya and the defunct Liberal Democratic Party has been nominated by the Christian Heritage Party, which fielded candidates in all the 46 electoral districts — the equivalent of Kenya’s constituencies. Otura, 48, is campaigning to capture the York West Electoral District in the city of Toronto. Make History York West is the heart of the multi-culture and racial diversity with close to 200 community’s residents and Otura seeks to use the multi-racial platform and young voters to make history. “I not only want to make history as the first Kenyan to become an MP in the Canadian House of Commons but to prove that leaders is not about the colour of one’s skin,” Otura told The Standard on phone from Toronto where he has been living ever since he left Kenyan in 2005.
Controversial character A search at the Christian Heritage Party’s website conformed Otura has been nominated to contest the seat. The Canada’s 41st federal election is slated for May 2 and will be the fourth in the past seven years with 308 seats to be contested in the House of Commons. Otura has been a controversial character right from the time he signed up as member of volunteer security team for the late opposition leader he late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. He fled to Canada in 2005 claiming his life was in danger and later founded the Christian Democratic Movement-Kenya. In 2007, Otura made news when he filed a case against Kenya at the International Criminal Court at The Hague over atrocities the successive Government had allegedly committed against Kenyans.
Never took off The case never took off due to legal technicalities. He said he was confident of winning the seat. “I did a lot a lot of consultations and political calculations before entering the race. I have a lot of political campaign tactics which I learnt from the late Jaramogi,” he said. “I have promised the voters affordable housing, easy access to art and music, healthcare and better education.” Buoyed by the historic election of Barack Obama whose father was a Kenyan as the first Black American President, a number of Kenyans living overseas have been eyeing political leadership in those countries. – The Standard.
OVERHEARD BY MR. SEED: “Who can you trust these days, a Kenyan lady’s bag was stolen in a church in London last week. Two days later the owner discovered that her card had been stolen. The card was used to buy goods in big stores worth £3,000.”m – Kenyan lady in London. HOTTEST APRIL IN RECORD
Isla Stanton, aged 4, enjoys an ice cream on the beach in Hythe, Kent, as Britain is set to be engulfed by another spell of glorious barbecue weather over the Easter weekend - as forecasters predict one of the hottest Aprils on record and on right Seals bask in the sun at a cove near Hayle on April 20, 2011 in Cornwall, England. The UK is currently basking in fine weather with the Met Office predicting temperatures up to 25C this week. The fine weather comes as many people are taking advantage of the combination of a late Easter and a additional Bank Holiday for the Royal Wedding, to take extended breaks and holidays. - 20/04/2011.
In Boston, USA Mutain earned $225,000 (about Sh20 million
Kenya’s Geoffrey Mutai wins the 115th running of the Boston Marathon last Monday in Boston, Massachusetts. For his exploits in Boston, Mutain earned $225,000 (about Sh20 million) in prize money, and undisclosed amounts in endorsements.“I never imagined that one day he will be under the world’s spotlight. “It is God’s blessings to him for he respects his parents. It was also a reward for his persevering, loving respectful character and for a man who dedicates love to his family. “I pray God to guide him to bring more glory to Kenya,” said Beatrice. Mutai’s mother Emmy Koech says Andrew Koech, the athlete’s father, was equally a proud father.
New York taxi driver lands 2,500-mile fare to Los Angeles
It may sound like the plot of a movie, but New York cabbie Mohammed Alam recently had the fare of his life after an investment banker and his friend paid him thousands of dollars for a unique trip. John Belitsky and Dan Wuebben wanted to have a 'magical' experience, so approached Mr Alam at LaGuardia Airport and asked him to drive them 2,448 miles to Los Angeles, California, on the west coast of the US. The country-crossing journey took six days and saw the taxi driver earn $5,000 (£3,000) or KShs. 400,000 for his troubles. However, New Jersey resident Mr Belitsky and his friend from Queens managed to win some of this back in a stopover in Las Vegas, where they scooped $2,000 in a casino. The cabbie is now set to drive back to New York with the help of a friend, although it is unclear how his passengers will make the return trip. Travelling from New York to California would have allowed the men to take in states such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado, Utah and Nevada.
Crown Prince Of Bahrain Says No To Wedding
The Crown Prince of Bahrain will not be attending the royal wedding on Friday, defusing a potentially embarrassing row over his invitation. Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa was one of the hundreds of dignitaries from around the world on the guest list that was made public yesterday. He had been expected to see William and Kate exchange vows at Westminster Abbey, but organisers were today informed he will not attend. In a letter declining the invitation, the Crown Prince blamed the decision on the continuing unrest in the Gulf Kingdom. But it was unclear whether diplomatic pressure had also been applied after the invitation sparked uproar from human rights campaigners in the UK. The Crown Prince criticised the British media claiming it had "clearly sought to involve my potential attendance as a political proxy for wider matters involving Bahrain".
A Kenyan has died in Richmond Virginia, USA
Death has occurred in Richmond Virginia of Eliud Ngige Ng’ang’a on 20th April 2011 at VCU hospital. Mr.Ngige was unwell on Sunday when he started complaining of body chill and was coughing blood. He was rushed to the Hospital where the Diagnose was pneumonia. His condition worsened on Wednesday morning and was later pronounced dead at 12.00 noon. He was formerly the headmaster of Kihumbuini (Kangemi) Primary, Muthangari Primary, and retired at Salama Primary School. Son of the late Joseph Ng’ang’a Chege and Esther Njeri Ng’ang’a. Son-in-law to the late Henry Ng’ang’a Kageche and the late Violet Njeri Ng’ang’a. He was beloved husband to Alice Nyambura Ngige (formerly of Bain Hogg/Eagle Africa). Brother to the late Peter and the late Loise Chege, the late Elizabeth Wacheke, Margaret and Peterkin Ngeera, Molly and Elijah Kimani, the late Grace and Musa Wainana. Father to Joseph and Agnes Ng’ang’a Ngige, Esther and Maina Ndegwa, Henry and Wanjiru Ng’ang’a, Peter Chege Ngige, Anne and Emmanuel Murage and Stephen Kageche Ngige. Grandfather to Ngige Ng’ang’a, Pearl Ng’ang’a, Keren Ng’ang’a, Sheeko Ndegwa, Baraka Ndegwa, Eli Ng’ang’a, Kimberly Nyambura Ng’anga and Joy Murage. Prayer meetings and funeral arrangements are being held daily at 14 Starling Ct., Richmond, VA 23229. The following events have been planned in connection with Mr. Ngige Ng’ang’a’s funeral arrangements.
FUNDRAISING - HARAMBEE Sunday, April 24, 2011 at 2:00 p.m., Trinity Lutheran Church, 2315 North Parham Road, Richmond, VA 23229.
MEMORIAL SERVICE Monday, April 25, 2011, Viewing: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00a.m., Service: 11:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Grove Avenue Baptist Church, 8701 Ridge Road, Richmond, VA 23229
Contributions can be sent directly to Stephen Kageche Ngige Bank of America A/C #: 005311491335, Routing: 071000505 (paper), 081904808 (electronic) And 026009593. Following the memorial service there will be an extended gathering at the Ngige’s for lunch and to continue supporting the family. Contacts: George Kinuthia - 804-484-9156, Charles Thuku - 804-205-2072 or Stephen Ngige - 804-212-4800.
Kenya nabs 3 suspected Somali Islamists Nairobi, April 23, 2011 - Kenyan police said on Saturday they have arrested three suspected members of Somalia's Al Qaeda-affiliated Shabaab rebel group carrying materials that could be used to make explosives. "They were arrested within Northeastern Province as they tried to cross over to their country," said the officer, who asked not to be named as he is not authorised to speak to the press. "We do not know what they were up to, but we suspect they were up to no good because they were in possession of dangerous materials used to make bombs and other explosives," he told AFP. He said the arrests were made on Friday, but declined to say where exactly. "For now the three suspects are in the custody of police officers in Northeastern Province, but they are to be brought here to Nairobi for further interrogation," he added. The arrests follow a statement by police that they had beefed up security after Shebab rebels threatened to bomb public places such as shopping malls, government offices and places of worship over the four-day Easter weekend. The Shebab, who control large swathes of Somalia and have been engaged in a bruising insurgency against the internationally backed transitional government, have repeatedly expressed their displeasure with Kenya's stand on the conflict. Kenya, which shares a long and porous border with Somalia and has offered assistance to government troops battling the insurgents, has frequently expressed fears that Shebab suicide bombers would strike in Kenya. Royal street parties set, but not for all (Reuters) - About 5,500 street parties will be held across Britain to toast next Friday's wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton, although the royal nuptials appear to have failed to excite locals in east London. Applications for road closures to hold the traditional celebration of state occasions have flooded into councils across the country, and officials say more affluent southern England appears to be more royalist than the poorer north. The Local Government Association (LGA) said many councils had been inundated with requests for parties, in which streets are adorned with bunting and flags, while locals erect folding tables in the road to share food and drink. However, the east London borough of Barking and Dagenham, a diverse, working-class area home to many poorer people of immigrant origin, has not received a single application. "There are a few things going on like parties in community halls, but we haven't had any applications to close roads," a spokesman for the council said. "We haven't been offering funding for help with royal wedding street parties. That may be a reason." Across the capital as a whole, there will be more than 800 such parties while Surrey, Hertfordshire and Kent have between them also received several hundred requests. The figures indicate there was less enthusiasm for the community get-togethers outside major cities in the north. "I think it would be a fair point to say the south is more royalist, well has had more road closure applications than the north," said a LGA spokesman. "Why that is, we don't know." While the Queen remains popular after 59 years on the throne, royalists have had little to celebrate for two decades, with the royal family more often in the news over divorce, death and scandal. The LGA said not all parties would require official permission -- such as those staged in pubs or parks. It rejected as "ill-founded" government assertions that bureaucracy had deterred some would-be party organisers. Media reported one woman had been told she would have to take out public liability insurance worth 5 million pounds if she wanted to hold a celebration. Prime Minister David Cameron, who is hosting a street party outside 10 Downing Street, has urged councils not to get in their way of people having fun. "To those councils that are asking small groups of neighbours for licenses, insurance and other bureaucracy my message is clear: don't interfere.
Royal wedding: Westminster Abbey seating plan revealed
The seating plan for Prince William's wedding to Kate Middleton at Westminster Abbey has been revealed. Close family members are to sit nearest to the royal couple as they take their vows on Friday. The Queen, accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Charles, the Duchess of Cornwall and Prince Harry will sit in the front row. Celebrity guests include Sir Elton John, David and Victoria Beckham and Rowan Atkinson. Miss Middleton's mother Carole will sit directly opposite the Queen, next to her husband Michael and her son James. The remaining places on the Middletons' front row are yet to be confirmed.
Celebrity guests Westminster Abbey is essentially two churches, said the BBC's Royal correspondent Nicholas Witchell. Those sitting near the high altar will have the best view of the marriage while guests in the nave would see very little, he said. The wedding will see 2,000 guests pack into the 1,000-year-old Abbey. Among those attending will be Olympic swimming star Ian Thorpe, who recently announced that he was coming out of retirement to compete in London in 2012. Prince William met the sportsman when he visited Australia last year and he is now a supporter of the swimmer's charity, Thorpe's Fountain for Youth. Other sports personalities attending will be former England rugby coach Sir Clive Woodward, Sir Trevor Brooking, a Football Association colleague of the Prince who is the body's president, and Welsh rugby player Gareth Thomas. Service personnel also feature heavily in the guest list. ,Squadron Leader Paul Bolton, from RAF Valley in Anglesey, North Wales, where the prince is based as an RAF search and rescue helicopter pilot has been invited. Prince William has invited members of the families of two close friends and colleagues from Sandhurst who died on active service. Holly Dyer, the sister of 2nd Lieutenant Joanna Dyer, who was killed by a bomb in Iraq in 2007, and Susie Roberts, the widow of William's Sandhurst platoon commander Major Alexis Roberts, killed four years ago in Afghanistan, will both be in the congregation.
Spencer family Next to the Middletons will be members of the Spencer family including Lady Sarah McCorquodale, the sister of William's mother, Diana, Princess of Wales. Lady Anne Wake-Walker, Diana's aunt; Lord Fellowes and Lady Jane Fellowes, Diana's brother-in-law and sister; and Earl Spencer will be seated alongside her. Foreign dignitaries and diplomats will sit in the South Transept which is directly to the side. Forty-six foreign royals will be in attendance, including the Prince of Bahrain, whose country was recently criticised by Foreign Secretary William Hague for its human rights record. The south side of the Abbey will be reserved for Prime Minister David Cameron and other cabinet members and Ed Miliband, Labour leader. Seated behind the choir will be faith representatives and friends of the bridge and groom.
Gospel Artist Hellenah Ken arrives at Heathrow
A Kenyan gospel artist, Hellenah Ken arrived at Heathrow airport on Thursday 21st April, 2011 for a busy Easter concerts in UK. Her contact 07983236317/07960090518. She will be performing at various places in the UK including the following:
PASTOR ODIMA OF LONDON HAS LOST HIS FATHER IN KENYA The father of Pastor Joseph Odima of Abundant Life Fire Ministry (U.K.) has passed on to glory to be with the Lord, Mzee Sabianius Odima was the husband to Rose Odima, He was also the father to Mary Adhiambo (deceased), Wilfred Auma (deceased), George Odima (deceased), Benta Odima, Daniel Odima, Claris Odima (deceased), Pastor Paul Odima and Pastor Michel Odima. He was the Grand Father of 10 Children. Family and friends are all meeting in prayers every evening from 7pm at Pastor Odimas residence. 67 Haskard Road, Dagenham, Essex, RM9 5XR. For more information please contact: Pastor Odima on 07944827781 or Pastor Eunice Odima on 07944815755.
Kenyans mark Good Friday
Nairobi, Friday 22nd 2011 - Archbishop of the Catholic Church Nairobi, John Cardinal Njue has urged the Kenyan government to urgently address the issue of food security in the country. His call comes as Kenyans celebrated Good Friday amid soaring cost of living occasioned by the recent increase of fuel prices. He said that the government should prioritize issues concerning the common man who is languishing in poverty rather that political rhetoric. The cardinal at the same time called on the Christian fraternity to show love for one another as Jesus did when he was his disciples feet during the last supper. Scores of faithful interviewed by Kenya Broadcsating Corporation deplored the hike in fuel and commodity prices, saying they were unable to make ends meet. They called on the government to act swiftly and decisively in addressing the situation. Good Friday comes barely a week after Palm Sunday, which marked the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem. Many Christians meditated, fasted, prayed and asked for forgiveness during the Lent period, focusing on the suffering of Jesus Christ on the cross and its significance. Some Pentecostal churches are also holding conventions that would end on Easter Monday. Easter Sunday is a cornerstone of Christianity, which marks the triumph of Jesus Christ over death. The Easter would be characterised by series of liturgy, sermons and hymns from Good Friday through Holy Saturday to Easter Sunday to celebrate Christ's power over death and victory over sin.
Meanwhile, security has been beefed up countrywide and along the Kenya-Somalia border following threats of attacks by the Somali Millitia group, Al Shabaab. On Thursday evening police commissioner Mathew Iteere issued an alert after intelligence reports indicated that the group had threatened to bomb recreational places particularly during the Easter holiday. In a statement Iteere urged the management of such places to beef up security, and notify police of any suspicious activities. "I wish to assure the public that in conjunction with other security services, we have taken measures to improve security in and around the possible targets by among others increasing security surveillance patrols. However, as part of community policing, we are advising the management of all the places mentioned and other places where a large number of public is admitted to enhance their security measures during this festive season. Members of public are also reminded that it is their civic duty to cooperate with legitimate security personnel at all times in order to improve security and safety for all. We also wish to encourage the public to promptly report any suspicious activities or characters to police or other authorities." Meanwhile, police spokesman Eric Kiraithe has assured Kenyans that security personnel will do everything necessary to ensure their safety. In a phone interview with KBC, Kiraithe, called on members of the public to be vigilant, especially when visiting congested places such as shopping malls and entertainment joints. There has been intense fighting between the Al Shabaab and Somalia's Transitional Government along the Kenya-Somalia border.
'WHEN U FORM AN OPINION BASED ON SPECULATION , U LEAVE NO ROOM 4 THE TRUTH'
Christian pilgrims fill Jerusalem for Good Friday A Greek Orthodox priest reads from a religious text during the Washing of the Feet ceremony outside the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the site where many Christians believe Jesus was crucified and buried, in Jerusalem's Old City. (AP Photo) Christian pilgrims filled the cobblestone alleyways of old Jerusalem to mark Good Friday, commemorating Jesus' crucifixion in the city two millennia ago. Thousands of international visitors and local Christians retraced Jesus' last steps down the Via Dolorosa, which is Latin for "Way of Suffering." The route ends at the ancient Church of the Holy Sepulcher, revered as the site of Jesus' crucifixion, burial and his resurrection two days later on Easter Sunday. "All my life I've been waiting for this wish - I've been wishing for one day to come here in Jerusalem to worship. I wanted to step where my lord stepped," said Roshan Futsom, a pilgrim from Toronto, Canada. "This is a special energy, a special love. I cannot explain," said another pilgrim, Miodrag Ivanovic of Belgrade, Serbia, who was on the Via Dolorosa with a large wooden cross on his shoulder. Jerusalem's walled Old City was crowded Friday with adherents of different churches and faiths. The calendars of the Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches coincide this year, so the sects are marking the holy week together. This has required careful arrangements to avoid conflicts among the many ceremonies and processions of each church. Jews are currently celebrating the weeklong Passover festival, and the city's Jewish Quarter was also full of visitors Friday. Israeli police were deployed in force in the Old City, which contains sites holy to Jews, Christians and Muslims. Herman Backhaus of Munster, Germany, said being in Jerusalem reminded him that Jesus "actually lived, and his message didn't die with him on the cross."
Kenyan woman from Kansas weds an American bride By ANTONY KARANJA in DALLAS, TEXAS
A Kenyan woman wedded her American bride over the weekend in Des Moines, Iowa. Terry Ng’endo Wakonyo, 24, and Courtney Nicole, 25 were joined together in a same-sex marriage ceremony at the Polk County Courthouse on Friday. The newly weds held a reception on Saturday in Shawnee, Kansas where they were joined by family and friends who included scores of Kenyans. Speaking to jambonewspot.com, the groom who is from Nairobi proudly said “we are married” when asked whether they were in a civil union. The couple who are both residents of Kansas had to travel to the neighboring state as Kansas does not recognize same-sex marriages. Same sex marriages in Iowa became legal on April 3, 2009. More than 80% of same-sex marriages inn the state are from couples coming in from neighboring states. Ngendo has lived an openly gay life in Kansas. Ngendo’s friends in Kansas described her as a good friend to most Kenyans and someone who was proud of whom she was. “Ngendo has lived among us and has been a very good friend and I think I speak on behalf of many Kenyans who know her in Kansas,” one lady who did not want to be identified said. “They are very nice people and if this is what they have chosen, we should respect them.” The bride has since changed her name to Courtney Ngendo. She has two sons age 5 and 4. “I was married before and hence my two sons but I was not comfortable in the relationship as I knew I was interested in girls.” Courtney said. “I was never able to come out in the open but the moment I met Ngendo, I knew that this was my time to come out. The couple has been dating for the last two years and was finally engaged in February. According to a Kenyan lady who attended the wedding reception, song and dance filled the room. A popular song “Muthuri ta uyu…mwamwonire kuu?” (Where have you seen a husband like this?) underscored the theme of the wedding. “We are having a blast,” Courtney said. Courtney also added that some gay Kenyans have been able to confide in Ngendo. “Some gay Kenyans have opened up to Ngendo and confided in her the fact that they are afraid of being openly gay for fear of hostility from fellow Kenyans.” She said. On Monday, two Kenyans in California and one in Reno, Nevada who said they were gay sent separate messages to jambonewspot.com and pointed to Ngendo and Courtney’s wedding summarily noting that Kansas was a conservative state and yet Kenyans did not “raise hell”. “I heard of this female couple that got married last weekend in Kansas (it was actually in Iowa) but it seems like you guys (US Kenyan blogs) do not want to touch it. From what I have heard, there was very little hostility towards the Kenyan lady. Maybe Kenyans are finally coming of age considering this is in Kansas which is a Midwestern state,” read one email from a reader calling himself/herself “Proud to be gay from CA” from Palo Alto, California. However not all Kenyans were celebrating with the couple. “This is a bit too much,” said Wanjira from Kansas City, Missouri. “However tolerant I want to be, this is a bit too much for my taste buds.” A survey conducted in 2010, showed that 44% of Iowa residents supported same sex marriages making it the only state that allowed sex marriages to record less that 50% support. A recent CNN/Opinion research poll showed that 51% of Americans favor legal recognition of same sex marriages mirroring another recent poll by ABC/Washington Post. In the 2010 midterm elections, the three Iowa Supreme Court Justices who were involved in the ruling legalizing same-sex marriages in the state were removed from office after judicial retention elections. Legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate late last week seeking to give binational same-sex couples the same rights as married couples for immigration purposes. The Uniting American Families Act was reintroduced Thursday, April 14, seeking to allow LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) American citizens the ability to sponsor their “permanent partners” or spouses for legal residency in the United States. - jambonewspot.com.
VERY IMPORTANT AND URGENT IMMIGRATION: CHANGES FOR STUDENTS IN B RATED COLLEGES FROM TODAY 21ST APRIL 2011 From today 21st April 2011, the interim limit for colleges to issue CAS letters will start, hence students currently studying at B rated colleges should seek advice immediately as the colleges will not be able to issue CAS letters to new student or renew visas for the current students depending on the circumstances of each college. This information is very important and urgent because students who are about to renew their visas between now and April 2012 will be seriously affected. Its important to seek advice immediately as once your leave run out, you may not be able to renew your visa as the other A rated colleges will also have limited CAS letter to offer between today and 2012 hence they have a choice whether to renew visa or to take on new students. For more information contact your college legal representative or MARTYNSROSE SOLICITORS. ON Tel: 0208 538 1397/ 07931 116 124 Email: martynsrosesolicitors @yahoo.co.uk Web: martynsrosesolicitors.co.uk NB: We are offering free legal advice to students. No fees to pay for the advice.
Kenyans ‘among world’s saddest’ Kenyans are among the saddest people in the world with many of them struggling to survive, a Gallup poll released on Tuesday revealed. Out of 124 countries in the world, Kenya ranks 13 among those with the largest number of people most dissatisfied with their lives. This is two points behind Uganda and four ahead of Tanzania while Chad lies at the end of the pack. The most satisfied people in the world are in Denmark, Sweden and Canada, in that order. The most dissatisfied people live in poor African countries while the happiest live mainly in rich European countries, indicating a relationship between wealth and satisfaction in life. For example, in Denmark 72 per cent say they are thriving and happy with their lives and only 27 per cent say they are getting by while only one per cent are suffering, according to a Gallup news alert. In Kenya, with a huge gap between the poor and the rich, only six per cent say they are happy with their lives, while almost 80 per cent are struggling to survive and 16 per cent living in agony. A similar trend was observed in the other two East African countries but in Tanzania the number of those who are sad is the same as those struggling and those suffering. Gallup warns governments against depending solely on Gross Domestic Product to assume their people are satisfied. “As the uprising in Tunisia and Egypt showed earlier this year, leaders should not rely on GDP alone as an indicator of how well their countries and their citizens are doing. Monitoring and improving behavioural economic measures of wellbeing are important to helping leaders better the lives of all their residents,” say the Gallup alert. The Gallup’s global wellbeing surveys were carried out last year in face to face interviews and phone calls. Another global Gallup survey released earlier this month indicated more than half of adult Kenyans found it difficult to buy food. When asked: “Have there been times in the past 12 months when you did not have enough money to buy food?” 57 per cent of Kenyans responded affirmatively. About 60 per cent of Ugandans answered in the affirmative. Seventy nine per cent of Kenyans said they were generally finding it difficult to buy food. – Daily Nation.
You have an urgent Letter or Parcel to Nairobi from London? Next Day Delivery. Better and Cheaper than DHL. Contact Uneek 02089840425.
Popular Artist Jua Kali arrives in London
The popular artist Jua Kali arrived in London on Thursday morning 21st April, 2011. He will be performing his first concert at Tripple EM Foods, Romanway, Luton on Friday night 22nd April, 2011 as from 7.00 p.m. (See below).
FRIDAY 22ND APRIL (GOOD FRIDAY) JUACALI AND MARLAW WILL BE PERFORMING LIVE ON STAGE AT TRIPPLE EM FOODS @ ROMANWAY PUB , 93 TOMLINSON AVENUE LU4 0QL. DOORS OPEN @ 7PM-6AM. CHARGES WILL BE £10 BEFORE MIDNIGHT AND £15 AFTER MIDNIGHT. NYAMA CHOMA WILL BE SERVED THROUGHOUT THE NIGHT. =========================== IMMIGRATION: END OF LEGACY CASES The legacy programme was introduced in 2006 to deal with all older cases. The case Resolution Directorate has now reviewed all older cases and work is underway to close the programme. From April a small team the Case Assurance and Audit Unit [CAAU] was introduced to be responsible for some residual work on legacy cases. These are the cases that have been reviewed but not fully concluded. If you believe that your case is being handled by CAAU please write to Case Assurance and Audit Unit Department 87, P.O Box 306 L2 0QN. Alternatively, please do seek urgent legal advice from your legal representative as soon as possible to know the position of your matter if your case is still pending before the programme is fully closed, or for more information, please contact MartynsRose Solicitors. FOR APPOINTMENTS ONLY Tel: 0208 538 1397/ 07931 116 124. Web:www.martynsrosesolicitors.co.uk Email:martynsrosesolicitors@yahoo.co.uk
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SEVERAL KENYANS GRADUATES IN SOUTH AFRICA
Monday and Tuesday (18-19 April 2011) this week were graduation days at the University of KwaZulu-Natal Pietermaritzburg Campus, South Africa. Among the graduands were 11 Kenyans. Seven of them received PhDs in various fields. Significantly, six of the 11 Kenyans were women. Three were getting PhDs. The Kenya Community in Pietermaritzburg hosted a party in their honour on Sunday 17 April 2011.
Those who graduated were:
Rev. Dr. Steve Muoki Rev. Dr. Lydia Mwaniki Dr. Halima Abdillahi Dr. Hilda Munyua Dr. Tom Kwanya Dr. Pascal Ojwang Dr. John Kimani Florence Shisanya Linda Kosgei Anne Ntombela William Muna
It appears that South Africa has become a major destination for further studies for Kenyans. A significant number of the Kenyans achieve distinctions in their Masters and PhD studies and this has attracted the attention of high authorities in the Universities.
A Kenyan family in Tilbury, Essex have lost their father It is with humble acceptance of Gods will that we are sad to announce the passing of Mzee Charles Ngare Manwa, Husband to Cicilia Gesare and Nora Nyamboke. He was father to Andrew Manwa of Tilbury Essex, Jacline Kwambuka, Damaris Kembo, Mary Nyachma, Olipha Kemuto, Edwine Ongeri, Evi Ombeo, Ngare and Kwambuka. He had 13 grand children among them Charles Ngare Cylcia Nyambura, Elaine Moraa and Paul Ring’u all London. Family and friends are meeting 7 till 9 pm until Tuesday 26/04/2011 at 86 Wellington Rd Tilbury RM18 7PS. A memorial service will be announced later. For information please contact (Mama Charles) 07872078760. Gichuki 07853389428 and Muthoni 07738737137. Please continue supporting us in prayers.
THE DEAD MUST RISE
The Nation Gripping Long awaited Super Sunday 24th April 2011 has arrived and it promises to Amaze even The Sceptics of This World. Scientists have called it nothing but a “Strange Phenomena” ; Cynics are “Gripping to their Television Sets” & Those seeking their Miracles are rushing to; The Kingdom Church; 186 Walworth Rd; Chatelaine House 2nd Floor ; London SE17 1JJ . Bishop Climate awaits to usher you to an only once in a Life Time Opportunity at this 11am Service & 2pm Service. 0207 740 6001/2 www.bishopclimate.org
****Press Release****Press Release***Press Release***
Six days left to apply for the greatest tickets on earth to watch, support and cheer the Kenyan Athletes at the London Olympics!
Time is running out for you to apply for London 2012 Olympic Games tickets!
Remember people from abroad will seek visas, pay flights, hotel and other expenses just to come over-From UK, YOU WILL PROBABLY ONLY PAY FOR A TICKET TRAIN- Tickets start from only £20.00!
Applications will close in only six days' time at 11:59pm on Tuesday 26 April.
Don't leave it until the last minute as there are more than 600 sessions to choose from and this is your best chance to get the tickets you want.
Apply online now
The full competition schedule is available to browse on the London 2012 ticketing website and can also be found in the Official Ticketing Guide which you can pick up from your local branch of Lloyds TSB.
The atmosphere at the London Marathon was electrifying when the Kenyan athletes dominated and showcased the Kenyan prowess. The London Olympics will be extraordinary.
For and On behalf of Team Kenya Support London Marathon & London 2012 Olympics in conjunction with the Kenya Olympic Team Preparations organizing committee.
****Press Release****Press Release***Press Release***
If you get this, it is because you are involved in provision of Labour in one way or another. Just an update from Kahoro Consulting HMRC doubles tax evasion officersHM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is to double its number of specialist officers cracking down on labour providers who fail to pay their tax. Tax evaders face custodial sentences, confiscation of their assets and further sanctions such as financial reporting orders and orders preventing them from becoming company directors. HMRC cites main compliance problems as:
David Gauke, exchequer secretary to the Treasury, says: “This government has invested £900m in HMRC to crack down on people who break the rules. Expanding these teams will help make sure that we bring in the additional money that the UK needs. They aim to stop tax losses and increase tax yields by more than half a billion pounds over the next four years. Gangmasters who think they can exploit their staff and the tax system need to think again.” The additional 100 officers will also offer free health checks to businesses to help them use legitimate labour providers and tackle fraud within the industry Tom Hadley, Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) director of policy and professional services, says: “This is a big step forward, there is nothing more frustrating than to be placed at a commercial disadvantage by doing the right thing. Unfair practices create market distortions and have a huge impact on legitimate businesses as well as on workers. We need clarity and consistency in the way that regulations are applied, we also need real clout in terms of government enforcement.”
Kenyans can use waiting slips in place of IDs
Kenyans can now use waiting slips pending the issuance of Identity Cards to access travel documents or during the armed forces recruitment exercise expected to kick off Thursday. Immigration minister Otieno Kajwang told parliament Wednesday morning that they had allowed those possessing waiting cards to make use of them since the ministry was to blame for the delay in the issuance of the vital document. He said the ministry had reached an agreement with the Ministry of Internal Security to exempt those without IDs and are willing to join the forces in upcoming recruitment process so that they do not miss the opportunity. Garsen MP Danson Mungatana, his Molo counterpart, Joseph Kiuna and nominated MP, Sheikh Dor called for urgency in addressing the issue saying it had barred many Kenyans from participating in social, economic and political issues. Kiuna urged the ministry to consider issuing the document at an earlier age to avoid inconveniences but the minister said the move will require the registration of persons act to be ammended. Kajwang also said the ministry will soon conduct a mobile registration exercise to reach marginalized communities. The minister last month said the delay had been occasioned by the complications regarding procurement process brought about by the intended migration from the second generation to third generation ID cards. He said the process of migrating to the third generation ID cards has been slowed down by court cases forcing his ministry to extend the contract of a French company that has been issuing materials used in making the cards since 1995.
Debt Problems?
INTERVIEW WITH REV. NJOYA
http://www.youtube.com/user/K24TV#p/u/3/7ngmT1fewPQ
BAPTISM TIME AT IWRM, LONDON
Revival House Interdenominational World Revival Ministry (IWRM) held a baptism service over the weekend on Sunday 17 April 2011 in London. The resident Pastor Boniface Mbugua officiated the ceremony. Before baptism, he taught about baptism by emersion and the candidates got a deeper revelation where eleven of Revival House Members were baptised. Baptism by emersion is being dipped in the water fully to identify with death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This was a very timely message as we start the Easter week when we commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus. For more pictures CLICK HERE
OVERHEARD BY MR. SEED: "Salvation from the Kenyan thugs and hooliganism, this is my Easter Message for Kenyans." - Dr. Timothy Njoya talking on Capital Talk
Why aren’t you on this mortgage?
In an attempt to grab market share from its competitors, HSBC has dropped its fees on all tracker mortgages until 5 June 2011. This means that if you apply before the deadline, you can avoid paying the booking, standard valuation and completion fees. What's more, customers will have the ability to switch to a fixed-rate mortgage later on with no additional fee if they choose. The deal is available to all customers, first-time buyers, remortgagers and anyone looking to move house. This could be a very good option for those wanting to take advantage of low interest rates but are hesitating, afraid of what an increase in the UK base rate could do to their monthly repayments. An advantage of this deal is that it has no early repayment charges, so if rates do rise, borrowers can switch to a fixed deal without facing a large bill. The bank promises that if you apply for a tracker before the 5 June deadline, it will ensure that until 31 December 2012 there will always be a fee-free fixed rate available to you, as long as your LTV is no more than 80%.
OVERHEARD BY MR. SEED : "Time has come for Kenyans to realise that they have sold their lungs and teeth to politicians akina Ruto and Uhuru to eat on their behalf" - Dr. Timothy Njoya talking on Capital Talk - VIDEO
REVIVAL HOUSE (IWRM) Invites you to an Easter conference with Pastor Heath of King's Church Newport. The conference starts with a Revival Night this Friday from 6pm-9pm. Saturday is dedicated mainly to youths and young adults between 16-30yrs. We have two services this Easter Sunday. Easter Service 10am-1pm and Revival Service from 6-9pm. Pastor Heath will be bringing a dance team and a taekwondo expert Dean Stone, along with Tony and others. Revival choir, revival youth and other artists will be ministering in music. We are expecting a mighty move of God. We are inviting you to come and experience the power of Jesus Christ Resurrection. Address is REVIVAL HOUSE 500 High Street North, London, E12 6QN. See flyer for more information. 
Record 241 tornados claim 40 lives in US
Washington - A cluster of 241 lethal tornados over three days has claimed at least 40 lives, making it the largest tornado outbreak connected to a single storm system in US history, according to a meteorologist on Sunday. Henry Margusity, senior meteorologist with the private weather forecasting service AccuWeather.com, was commenting on the deadly twisters that ravaged cities and towns from Oklahoma to North Carolina from Thursday to Saturday. 'There has not been a tornado outbreak in history over three days with this many tornadoes spawned by a single storm system,' Margusity said. In May 2003, there were 401 tornados over a seven-day period, but they were spawned by multiple storm systems moving from the south- west to the Plains states, Marguisty said. The recent tornados raged across 14 states, and AccuWeather said the number of fatalities could rise as investigations continue. The death toll is the highest since the 2008 Super Tuesday tornado outbreak, when 57 people were killed in February by 131 tornados that raged as voters tried to cast ballots in the massive multi-state presidential preference primary elections. North Carolina was worst hit with at least two dozen dead on Saturday, and the death toll would have been higher had the quick- thinking manager of a Lowe's home improvement store south of Raleigh not acted so fast. When he heard the tornado warning, he herded about 100 sales people and customers into a sturdy part of the building while the twister leveled the main sales area, according to media reports. AccuWeather said the violent tornado outbreak was the result of the powerful jet stream, an abundance of moisture and a strong cold front. Warmer water in the Gulf of Mexico as well as a strong La Nina pattern are combining to create more severe storms this year compared to past years, Marguisty said.
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UK soldiers ‘shot villager’ in Kenya
The commander of the British Army Training Unit in Kenya is under investigation over a shooting incident in which a Kenyan was injured. The civilian, who has not been named, is understood to have no life-threatening injuries. Britain’s Ministry of Defence has confirmed that the Royal Military Police Unit is looking into the allegations involving a senior officer. Col Hutton has been suspended after shots were allegedly fired at Kenyans who had strayed into a training ground. “We can confirm that a serving officer is being investigated following a shooting incident in Kenya, which may have injured a local civilian. It is inappropriate to comment further while the investigation is ongoing,” said the ministry. According to the Daily Mail newspaper in the UK, at least one warning shot was fired to scare off a group of Kenyans on March 17, 2010, after a spate of thefts at the base. The commander is responsible for putting 3,500 British troops a year through an arduous training programme high on the plains of Kenya. The training unit’s role is to prepare service personnel in an environment similar to Afghanistan. Three infantry battalions a year spend six weeks taking part in the so-called Exercise Grand Prix to hone their skills before their deployment to fight the Taliban. This allows troops to carry out live firing as well as experiencing a variety of climates, ranging from hot and dusty plains to rain forests. Daily Telegraph said one of the men was admitted to hospital with a bullet wound he claimed was inflicted by British soldiers. The group said they were herdsmen who had wandered onto the training ground by mistake. Col Hutton was awarded a CBE for his work in Afghanistan in the March 2009 operational honours list. The incident comes just days after the horrendous atrocities committed by British forces during the 1952-1962 Mau Mau uprising were revealed. Boxes of previously undisclosed documents, stored by the Foreign Office, have been unearthed during research into the claims. They record the methods employed to defeat the rebellion and government awareness of abuses. The details have begun to emerge through government reports documenting “systematic” torture, starvation and even the burning alive of detainees. – Daily Nation.
NIGERIA ELECTIONS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Unrest in Nigeria erupted following presidential elections on Saturday 16 April, a week after delayed legislative polls were finally held.
What happened in the presidential elections? Goodluck Jonathan from the governing People's Democratic Party (PDP) was declared the winner with 57% of the vote, taking 22.5 million votes. The runner-up, General Muhammadu Buhari, of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), took 12.2 million votes. International observers said polling was generally free and fair and there has been praise for the Independent National Electoral Commission. The African Union observer team said it was Nigeria's best poll for decades, but this did not stop riots breaking out in many northern cities, where Gen Buhari is popular. To win in the first round, a candidate needs at least 25% of the vote in two-thirds of Nigeria's 36 states, as well as a majority of the total votes cast. The protesters accuse PDP politicians in the north of rigging to allow Mr Jonathan to reach this threshold. They also claim there are discrepancies between turnout and results in some areas of the south, Mr Jonathan's powerbase.
Final results
Figures: Independent National Electoral Commission
Do the protesters have a point? Nobody is saying the vote was perfect - there were problems in some areas, however, nothing comparable to the rigging and intimidation seen in 2003 and 2007. The main problem for the opposition was that they failed to unite behind a single candidate. They had hoped the vote would go to a second round. But the Action Congress of Nigeria candidate, former anti-corruption boss Nuhu Ribadu, did not do well in the party's powerbase in the south-west. He is a Muslim from the north-east, and in the end his supporters chose loyalty to a southern candidate over party.
Is there always a north-south divide to politics? Elections in Nigeria tend to be about ethnicity, religion and regionalism, not issues. But it is the first time in Nigeria's recent history that the presidential election result has exposed the huge division between the mainly Muslim north and Christian south. Often the winning candidate - irrespective of region, religion or ethnicity - has commanded a wide national spread in the first round.
Historically, this was due either to a formal alliance by political parties or - more recently - an informal agreement within the governing PDP party to alternate the presidency between the north and the south after two terms in office. However, this rotation was broken when Mr Jonathan succeeded to the presidency last year after the death of Umaru Yar'Adua, a northerner. PDP powerbrokers wanted their candidate in this election to be a northerner. And much of the anger being expressed by the young men rioting in northern cities comes down to frustration. The north is far behind the south in terms of development, education and job opportunities - some of the issues politicians have often promised to address and failed to deliver.
Vote by Numbers
What have been the main campaign issues? Security, corruption and electricity. Since the country returned to democracy in 1999, it has been bedevilled by occasional outbreaks of deadly violence between the numerous ethnic groups who make up this nation of 160 million people. The oil-producing Niger Delta has experienced continuous unrest due to the activities of militants who say they want local people to keep more of the region's oil wealth.
Around the central city of Jos, groups divide along ethnic, religious, political and economic lines. They frequently clash and hundreds have already been killed this year. In the north-east, the radical Boko Haram Muslim sect, which says that Western education is forbidden, has battled the security forces resulting in deaths and fear in the city of Maiduguri. Black-outs are a common experience in Nigeria - an annoyance at home and a massive brake on economic growth. Despite spending $16bn (£10bn) in the last 12 years in order to improve supply, it can only produce 4,000 megawatts of electricity, compared to the 100,000 MW it says it needs to be an industrialised country. This brings us to the next issue, corruption. Despite being the sixth largest producer of oil in the world, and selling about two million barrels of oil per day, there is very little to show for it in terms of development. The majority of Nigerians still live below the poverty line and infrastructural development seems almost non-existent. So President Jonathan faces huge challenges on a number of fronts as well as healing the regional divide.
Who were the main presidential candidates? Of the 20 candidates, only four had any chance of winning.
President Goodluck Jonathan of the ruling People's Democratic Party became president in May 2010 after the death of his predecessor, Umaru Musa Yar'Adua.
Former military ruler Muhammadu Buhari of the Congress for Progressive Change contested both the 2003 and 2007 elections. He lost to the PDP candidate in elections that were heavily criticised by the international community.
Nuhu Ribadu, the former head of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, contesting for the Action Congress of Nigeria, the largest opposition party in the country. The fourth main candidate was Ibrahim Shekarau of the All Nigeria Peoples Party, the current governor of Kano State.
Are the other elections important? After the presidential poll, the most important election is for the 36 state governors, who enjoy wide powers - and huge budgets. (In some case, they control more money than the leaders of neighbouring countries.) Even the president has to bow to their pressure because they control the delegates of their states in primary elections, and they are the chief security officers of their respective states which gives them authority over the police. When the electoral commission is short of funds, the governors normally come to its aid in their states, something that is seen as another way of bribing election officials. The election for the governors is set for 26 April, although this timetable may shift again given the violence following the presidential result.
What happened in the legislative elections? They were due to be held on 2 April but were delayed at the last minute because election materials had not been delivered in many parts of the country. Many people feared the delay was part of an elaborate plan to rig the polls but most observers say they passed off relatively smoothly. The governing People's Democratic Party (PDP) seems to have lost ground and several party leaders lost their seats but it remains the biggest party in the National Assembly. And despite the initial chaos, observers said it was reasonably free and fair.
MUÛGITHÎ NIGHT 2011 UK TOUR WITH SALIM JUNIOR LIVE
Dead 'alien' found in Russian snow
A video claiming to show alien remains in a Russian UFO hotspot has become a massive worldwide hit with hundreds of thousands of followers. The movie - made by two walkers in Irkutsk in Russia's remote Siberia - shows what appears to be the badly damaged corpse of a two foot high ET half buried in the snow. Part of the right leg is missing and there are deep holes for eyes and a mouth in a skull-like head. UFO fans believe the body could have been left behind by ET visitors after an accident, or missed by Russian military alien experts clearing up after a crash, reports local media. The area is a known UFO hotspot with dozens of sightings reported every year. Igor Molovic, one of the pair that uploaded the video, now seen by nearly 700,000 people within a few days, said: 'We couldn't believe it when we saw it. And what was spooky is that there was no sign of the spaceship. 'Perhaps that was taken away and the body overlooked.' Skeptics suggest the video is a fake using a staged model for the ET's body.
Profile: Goodluck Jonathan, Nigeria's new leader
As his name suggests, Nigeria's President Goodluck Jonathan has a habit of being in the right place at the right time. Until November 2009, he was serving out his time as a low-key deputy to a low-key president. But then, President Umaru Yar'Adua was taken to hospital in Saudi Arabia and was not seen in public until he died on 5 May 2010. Step forward, Mr Jonathan. After months of political wrangling, Nigeria's elite finally accepted him as acting leader in February when the ailing president returned home, but remained too ill to govern. Barely 12 hours after Mr Yar'Adua's death, Goodluck Jonathan was sworn in as the new president and commander-in-chief of the armed forces of Africa's most populous nation - one of its most fractious democracies. Not bad for a man who has never been elected to major public office in his own right. Hand-picked deputy Born in 1957 in the oil-rich Niger Delta region, Mr Jonathan is a Christian from the Ijaw ethnic group. His family's trade was canoe-making, but he studied zoology at university.He worked as an education inspector, lecturer and environmental protection officer before going into politics in 1998. Just as his rapid rise to power in the federal government owed a lot to luck, so too did his promotion to state governor. Elected as deputy governor for his home state, Bayelsa, in 1999, he was once again serving his time without particular distinction. Until, that is, his boss was impeached on corruption charges. Mr Jonathan took over as governor and two years later was hand-picked by former President Olusegun Obasanjo to run on the ruling PDP's ticket as vice-presidential candidate in 2007. The BBC's Fidelis Mbah says insiders regard him as a politician without a political base - and more of an administrator than a leader. It has been suggested that Nigeria's many groups of power-brokers agreed to let him formally become acting president only because he was not seen as a threat - and crucially would not seek to contest the election due in 2011. But there can be no doubting the speed and relative smoothness of his assumption of power. "There has not been any rise that's been so meteoric in Nigeria," analyst Charles Dokubo said in February. On the relevance of the acting president's name, he said: "What is luck? Luck is when you can take advantage of an opportunity. He was in the right place at the right time." Journalist Ben Shemang is among the many Nigerians who believe Mr Jonathan's name has given him an advantage. He told the BBC's World Today programme that Mr Jonathan was doubly lucky as his other given name is equally propitious - Ebele, which means God's wish. "That tells you that it was the wish of the parents for him to be successful," he said. Militant work His rise to power, though, has not been without its share of controversy. His wife, Patience, was investigated by anti-corruption officials in 2006 over allegations she tried to launder some $13.5m. She has never been convicted of any wrongdoing over the affair and officials told AP the case was "an old one". Mr Jonathan has also been the target of attacks by militants in the delta region. During the 2007 election, his house was attacked, but he was not there at the time. If Mr Jonathan's time as vice-president was distinguished at all, it was through his negotiations with militants in the delta, who are mostly his fellow Ijaws. Many of the major militant groups have laid down their weapons, others have formed uneasy truces with the government. Much of the credit for this shaky peace has been given to Mr Jonathan. But that was Mr Jonathan the vice-president. It remains to be seen what path Mr Jonathan, the president will tread.
US new home permits rise 11% in March The US housing market regained some ground in March after the number of permits for new-build homes rose by 11.2% compared with the previous month. However, the recovery was from a very low base. February saw the lowest number of permits issued since 1963. Home construction also rose 7.2% between the months to a seasonally adjusted 549,000 units, according to the US Commerce Department. But the market remains weak with plenty of unsold and repossessed homes. Millions of foreclosures have forced home prices down, meaning in some cities, prices are half of what they were before the housing market collapsed in 2006 and 2007. Other figures underlined the fragility of the market. The number of new homes finished and ready to sell dropped in March to the lowest since records began in 1968. Data out on Monday also showed that confidence among home builders remains depressed. The National Association of Home Builders said its index of industry sentiment for April fell one notch, to 16. Any reading below 50 indicates negative sentiment about the housing market's future, and the index has not been above that level since April 2006.
Kenyans demonstrate over soaring prices of fuel and food. Demonstrators urged the Government to intervene. Voyager, biggest plane in RAF history, arrives in UK
The largest RAF aircraft in history has arrived in the UK for the first time. The new tanker and transport plane - named the Voyager - is almost 60m (197ft) long and has a 60m wingspan. It is twice the size of a Lancaster bomber and will replace the VC-10 and Tristar aircraft. The RAF has bought 14 Voyagers and the first is expected to be in service by the end of the year. The plane arrived at the MoD's airfield at Boscombe Down, Wiltshire, where further trials will be carried out. It flew in from Airbus Industrie's factory near Madrid in Spain. The Voyager, a converted Airbus A330-200 airliner, can carry 291 troops for more than 6,000 miles (9,656km). It can refuel another aircraft in the air with 100,000 litres of fuel, more than the amount contained by two large petrol tankers. The Ministry of Defence said it can refuel at a rate of 5,000 litres per minute, compared with a pump at a garage that delivers fuel at 40 litres per minute. Tesco Smashes Annual Profits Once Again
Tesco (LSE: TSCO.L - news) has announced record annual profit figures but the new chief executive has admitted there are big improvements to be made in the UK. Britain's biggest supermarket chain delivered £3.8bn in pre-tax profit against £3.4bn a year ago.
Presidential Win Sparks Riots In Nigeria
Riots have broken out in parts of Nigeria as it emerged the country's leader had won the race for president. Goodluck Jonathan, a Christian, took 22.5 million votes compared to 12.2 million for Muslim rival Muhammadu Buhari. The win was confirmed by the Independent Electoral Commission as violence spread in the Muslim north, with many people reported to be hiding in their homes and gunfire heard in some towns. The Nigerian Red Cross said churches, mosques and houses had been burned down, while 276 people have been injured and 15,000 displaced. Deaths have been reported, but no official figures are available. Mr Buhari's party has alleged massive vote rigging after Mr Jonathan, who has long been seen as the front-runner, secured victory. But observers have called the poll in Africa's most populous nation - and biggest oil producer - the fairest in decades. Twelve years after the end of military rule, the army said it stood fully behind the government. Mr Jonathan called for an end to the violence. "No one's political ambition is worth the blood of any Nigerian," he said in a statement. British Foreign Secretary William Hague said he welcomed "that this election appears to be the most credible since the end of military rule in 1999" and congratulated Mr Jonathan.
Is it another Kibera - Is there anybody going to Hague?
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Mutai runs fastest-ever marathon in Boston, but sets no world record
Disclosure of evidence against Ocampo six begins
The disclosure of evidence by the prosecution in the case against three of the Ocampo six has begun. The disclosure commenced Monday morning at the Status Conference at the International Criminal Court courtroom 1. Defense team for MPs Henry Kosgey and William Ruto and Journalist Joshua Arap Sang were present. The prosecution released two documents to the defense team and the pre-trial chamber. However, the prosecution told presiding judge Ekaterina Trendafilova that it wishes to disclose the evidence with reductions because some of the suspects hold powerful positions. However, Lawyers David Hooper, George Oraro and Katwa Kigen said the prosecution should not hide behind protective measures for witnesses to have reductions. Justice Trendafilova said the pre - trial chamber will rule on the matter diligently. The Status Conference for Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta, Head of Public service Francis Muthaura and former police boss Hussein Ali also took place. Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta's defence team consists of three foreign lawyers namely Queen's Counsel Steven Kay, Gillian Higgins and Benjamin Joyes. Former Police Boss Hussein Ali lawyers are Evans Monari, Gershom Otachi and Gregory Kehoe. Head of Civil Service Francis Muthaura is represented by Karim Ahmad Khan, Kennedy Ogeto and Muriuki Mugambi. Eldoret North MP WilIiam Ruto has Kioko Kilukumi, Katwa Kigen and Kithure Kindiki. Tinderet MP Henry Kosgey has engaged the services of George Odinga Oraro, Julius Kemboy and Allan Kosgey while Radio Presenter Joshua Sang team of lawyers is led by Katwa Kigen, Kimutai Bosek and Kiptum Koech. Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta, Head of Public Service Francis Muthaura and Postmaster General Hussein Ali put up a spirited fight against the new conditions requested by ICC chief prosecutor Luis Moreno-Ocampo. In their response filed at The Hague, the three noted that the plea by the prosecutor to have them deposit bond was unreasonable since there was no risk of absconding. In his request, Ocampo had sought the three top government officials to submit complete financial information to enable the Chamber to determine the appropriate bond or surety in an amount sufficient to guarantee future appearance at all required hearings of the Court among other things. They also argue that they have fully complied with the conditions imposed by the pre -trial chamber judges when they issued summonses against them and therefore the new conditions will be unnecessary. However, the three are expected to certify before the Chamber, under oath, that they have complied in full with all the conditions.
A Big thank you to all Kenyans in UK for your support at the London Marathon
Kenyans with Emanuel Mutai the London Marathon winner (second from left) and on right Edna Kiplagat gave the children her medal to hold We would like to take this opportunity to thank H.E the High Commissioner Mr Ephraim Ngare and the thousands of Kenyans who came out to support and cheer our athletes. We strongly believe that your support and wild cheering had an effect with the record breaking. Both Emanuel Mutai the men's winner and Mary Keitany told us that although they fully concentrate on the race, the Kenyan's presence and the flying flags were very noticeable and certainly gave them motivation and a huge desire to win. Please appreciate our heartfelt gratitude for your commitment and dedication. We now aim to give the Kenyan Rugby team a wild reception at next months Rugby Sevens and the Olympics. Please remember to purchase your Olympic tickets as ballots close in 8 days on April 26th at .http://www.tickets.london2012.com/howtoapply.html
YES, IT IS LONDON MARATHON WITH A DIFFERENCE
France blocks Italian trains carrying migrants
Authorities in France temporarily blocked trains from Italy in an attempt to stop north African migrants from entering the country. Trains were stopped at the border for hours - prompting Italy to launch an official complaint with France. Services were later resumed. Italy has angered France by giving temporary resident permits to thousands of Tunisian migrants. The permits allow them to travel freely in many European countries. The Italian foreign ministry said the French move was "illegitimate and in clear violation of general European principles". Schengen infringement? Speaking earlier on Sunday, Maurizio Furia, a spokesman for the Italian rail company, said that trains were not being allowed to pass into Menton, France, from the Italian border station of Ventimiglia. The BBC's Hugh Schofield says a demonstration in support of the Tunisian immigrants had been planned, in which some 300 protesters had planned to ride what they dubbed "the train of dignity". Because of the closure, the demonstration was unable to take place. France has said migrants have to prove they can support themselves financially and has set up patrols on the Italian border. But Italy says that France's actions are not in line with the EU's Schengen passport-free travel zone. "We have given the migrants travel documents, and we gave everything (else) that is needed, and the European Commission recognised that, it has said that Italy is following the Schengen rules," Italian Interior Minister Roberto Maroni said in an interview on Italy's Sky TG24 TV. Italy and other European countries have been increasingly concerned about migration from north Africa following the political turmoil in the region. Earlier this month, Italy and France agreed to launch sea and air patrols to try to prevent the influx of thousands of people from Tunisia, Egypt and Libya.
Kenyan community Bedford had time with the winner Mary Keitany and on right Kenyans with Colin Jackson CBE World Breaking athlete and BBC Sports presenter.
MUSLIM HATE CLERIC TARGETS KATE MIDDLETON'S AND PRINCE WILLIAM’S BIG DAY
An investigation was launched last night into more than £1million of Government contracts awarded to the brother of Britain’s most notorious hate cleric who is plotting to ruin the Royal Wedding. Vince Cable’s business department is examining whether funds given to Yazdani Choudary for IT training and apprenticeship projects over the past seven years were “allocated properly”. Mr Choudary, 48, is the wealthy elder brother of Anjem Choudary, 44, whose fanatical groups such as Al-Muhajiroun and Islam4UK, are banned in Britain. Anjem, who wants a worldwide Islamic state and threatened a rabble-rousing march through Wootton Bassett to disrupt coming home ceremonies for dead British soldiers, is UK spokesman for Al Qaeda sympathiser Omar Bakri Mohammed. The latest group with which he is involved, Muslims Against Crusades, is planning to cause chaos at next week’s wedding with a “forceful demonstration”. The group has warned Prince William “and his Nazi best man” Prince Harry that unless they immediately withdraw from the military, the “day which the nation has been dreaming of for so long will become a nightmare”.
President Kibaki heads for EAC summit in Dar-es-Salaam
President Mwai Kibaki is set to travel to Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania Sunday to attend the ninth Africa Investment Forum and the ninth Extraordinary Summit of the East African Community Heads of State. President Kibaki will on Monday, attend the 9th Africa Investment Forum hosted jointly by the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania, the Commonwealth Business Council and the East African Community (EAC). The forum will involve high level interactive dialogue on investment with EAC Heads of State and key private sector players from across Africa and the Commonwealth. The forum's theme 'Accelerating Investment in East Africa and Increasing Access to a Market of a Billion People' is expected to provide a platform to bring investors and projects together to showcase new opportunities, enhance African trade and investment and to build new business partnerships. Among the issues that will be discussed during the forum include ways of creating and promoting a viable business environment in the region. The forum will also focus on public-private sector partnership in key areas of infrastructure development including energy, transport, communications and housing. It will also exploit existing opportunities for East African businesses in the Commonwealth among other issues. On Tuesday, the President will attend the 9th Extraordinary Summit of the East African Community Heads of State.
Britain set for sizzling bank holiday weekend
Time to break out the sunscreen; this bank holiday weekend is set to be a scorcher, with the hot weather potentially lasting until the Royal Wedding. The Met Office told Yahoo! News today that temperatures will rise to a sizzling 23C this Thursday in the South of England - warmer than Mediterranean hotspots like Corfu (19C) and Athens (18C) and on a par with Tenerife (24C). The unusually hot weather will continue throughout the weekend, with the forecaster hopeful the 'settled' spell will continue well into the following week - just in time for the Royal nuptials. Speaking to Yahoo! News, Dave Britton, a forecaster for the MET Office, said: "Throughout this week it's going to be fine and dry with sunny spells. "There is a chance of one or two showers on Thursday and Friday, mainly in the centre of the country, and there could be rain and cloud across more of the north. But it's mainly dry and fine throughout. "Temperature-wise, we could see up to 23C in parts of the south on Thursday and Friday, with temperatures of around 16-17C in the north, and 15-17C in Scotland." "We're not sure yet if these temperatures will remain as high over the weekend, but it will certainly stay warm. It won't be wall-to-wall sunshine; there will be cloud around and there might be the odd shower in a few places but it won't be everywhere. "I think the sun should come out during the day at some point all over the country. All-in-all it will be a good weekend." Mr. Britton said the weather is much warmer than normal for this time of year. "Normally temperatures in mid-late April are somewhere between 10-15C, so it's unusually hot. "We've had a stable area of high pressure which has allowed temperatures to stay warm and in general keep our weather nice and settled." It's too early to definitely predict if the 29 April - the day Kate and Wills marry - will stay dry, but all the signs are good according to the Met Office.
The best London Marathon fancy dress
The London Marathon attracts elite athletes to the capital every year, who showcase the pinnacle of physical fitness. But we all know what the big day is really about - the hilarious outfits. Here are some of the best on a day that saw 36,500 runners start the race and and impressive 34,600 reach the finish line.
Kenyan consumer group to protest over rising prices
The Consumer Federation of Kenya is set to hold a peaceful nationwide protest march on Tuesday over the rising cost of living occasioned by high fuel prices. In a statement, Consumer Federation of Kenya (Cofek) programme officer Stephen Mutoro says the protests aim at pressurizing the government to cut taxes on fuel to check the rising cost of living. Mutoro says demonstration will continue until the issue is resolved by the two principles as he called on the minister of energy Kiratu Murungi to step aside for failing to handle the matter. He says demonstrators will carry empty plates and sufurias to display the agony they face when the cost of living goes up. The demonstration will kick off at Nairobi's Uhuru Park, from where a procession will enter the central business district through Kenyatta Avenue. In recent months, the cost of living has shot up drastically prompted by the escalating fuel costs. Meanwhile, some matatu owners on Monday adjusted fares by between 30-50 percent as a result of the increasing fuel prices. Matatu Owners Association chairman Simon Kimutai said they were initially reluctant to increase fares but now they have been forced to do so by the increase in fuel prices. He, however, urged the members to adjust the fares fairly. Elsewhere, Narc-Kenya party leader Martha Karua attributes the skyrocketing fuel prices to corruption and inefficiency in Government. Karua alleges that corruption at the Kenya Pipeline Company is squarely responsible for the runaway fuel prices. Last week, the Energy Regulatory Commission announced new pump prices with an increase of about 13 per cent on all brands that has drawn the wrath of the public. The Gichugu MP called on the government to streamline operations in the energy sector to enable the common mwananchi to afford the commodity.
Minister: M1 Will Not Fully Reopen For Days
The M1 will not reopen fully for several days after a scrapyard fire under a flyover damaged the motorway just outside London. Transport Minister Mike Penning told Sky News the M1 could be partially closed until late next week, causing further problems for motorists after a weekend of disruptions. Two northbound lanes were expected to open this afternoon after a temporary structure was put in place to support the damaged bridge. And it is thought two southbound lanes will be opened overnight or in the early hours of Monday morning. Mr Penning said: "The bridge has been damaged by the fire quite badly and that means we have to make sure it's safe for the motorist and safe for our workers underneath the bridge." A seven-mile stretch of the motorway between junctions one and four north of London has been shut over much of the weekend following the blaze early on Friday. One northbound lane was opened at 6.40pm on Saturday, but drivers are still being told to avoid the area. The closure has caused disruption for tens of thousands of fans going to Wembley for this weekend's FA Cup semi-final matches. The Highways Agency said it was still investigating the impact of the damage and urgent repairs were needed before the motorway can be fully reopened. He said: "The viaduct does need to be reinforced before it can carry the weight of traffic and we are putting in supports so we can reopen the road as soon as possible." He added: "We expect it to be open by 5am on Monday." Around 40 firefighters tackled the blaze on Friday, which broke out close to Scratchwood Services and Ellesmere Avenue in Mill Hill. A number of gas cylinders were involved and a hazard zone was set up in case they exploded in the heat. Trafficlink has warned that the motorway could remain closed "into next week". Motorists travelling to London from the north are urged to avoid the M1 and use the A1M, the M40 and the A40 instead. - VIDEO
Terrifying truck crash in China
CCTV footage has been released of a container lorry overturning on a busy road while rushing to pass traffic lights in a Chinese city. The vehicle was going over a crossroad at high speed in Wenling City in eastern China's Zhejiang Province. Unfortunately, it overturned and dropped its container, according to the images captured by traffic monitors. Officials said passersby narrowly avoided injury. - VIDEO
KENYANS DOMINATES LONDON MARATHON
* Mutai and Keitany secure Kenyan London Marathon double * Kenya High Commissioner HE. Ephraim Ngare joined other Kenyans to celebrate their own * Record number of Kenyans in UK took to the marathon route to celebrate * Notably was the large number of Kenyans Asians with flags celebrating their country men and women * The men winners followed each other to deliver...no. 1, 2, 3, and 5 * Ladies could not be left behind they came winning no. 1 and 3 * Mutai broke the fastest London Marathon record ever recorded in London
Emmanuel Mutai and Mary Keitany completed a Kenyan double as they won the men's and women's races at the London Marathon on Sunday 17th April, 2011. Mutai raced to a London record of two hours four minutes and 39 seconds, while Keitany won in 2:19.19, the fourth fastest women's marathon ever. In the men's race Martin Lel sprinted to second place ahead of Patrick Makau as Kenyans filled the top three spots. Russian defending champion Liliya Shobukhova was the women's runner-up. Mutai told BBC Sport: "My dreams have come true, the day has come for me. My aim was just to win the race, I was not focusing on the time.
Kenyas Mary Keitany (front R) runs alongside the pace runner ahead of the pack during the womens London Marathon April 17, 2011. Keitany strode away from the field after the halfway point to win the London womens marathon on Sunday and on right Martin Lel of Kenya (L) looks over his shoulder as he crosses the finish line to beat compatriot Patrick Makau during the mens section of the London marathon April 17, 2011.
"I'm happy with the result, since I came to run in London, I was fourth twice and second once. It's a fantastic achievement for me personally." Ethopian Aberu Kebede, last year's winner of the men's race, could only manage a ninth placed finish. Keitany, running only her second marathon, controlled the latter part of the women's race and the 29-year-old won by nearly a minute from Shobukhova. The Russian world number one was a strong favourite to retain her London Marathon title and led from the beginning, but Keitany pulled ahead of the pack at mile 15 and increased her pace all the way to the line. "I am happy because I won the race. I decided to go at my own pace at 21k. I think I surprised myself as I was with last year's winner [Shobukhova]," said Keitany. "I was scared at first but as we continued to move I believed in myself." Edna Kiplagat, 31, finished third on her London marathon debut.
Great Britain's Jo Pavey came through in a time of 2:28.24, the seventh fastest time by a British female athlete and inside the British Olympic qualifying time. Team-mate Louise Damen, the second British athlete across the line, was also inside the qualifying time in 2:30.00. Pavey told BBC Sport: "The first half felt quite slow but the second half was awful really. I enjoyed it and I know I've got a lot to learn. "From here I need to think about longer sustained runs, I know what I've got to do and I need to go away and do them. All in all I'm very pleased." Britain's Andrew Lemoncello could not improve on last year's eighth-placed finish as he struggled in the later stages of the men's event.
MEN’S RACE RESULTS
1 Emmanuel Mutai (KEN) 2:04.40
WOMEN’S RACE RESULTS
1 Mary Keitany (KEN) 2:19.19 British finishers:
Kenyans shines all the way at the London Marathon
London, Sunday 17th April, 2011 - Kenya's Emmanuel Mutai won the men's race and broke the record with the fastest-ever time while compatriot Mary Keitany won the women's race. The 26.2-mile event from Blackheath to Buckingham Palace started at 0900 BST. A man running backwards and a woman knitting a world-record scarf were among the 36,500 people running in this year's London Marathon. David Rathband, the Northumbria police officer who was blinded by gunman Raoul Moat, was one of those taking part. David Weir claimed an unprecedented fifth title in the wheelchair race, with a sprint finish.
Weir overtook Switzerland's Heinz Frei to become the most successful wheelchair athlete in the event's history. The athletes were joined by celebrities, including Olympic rowing champion James Cracknell, former Manchester United footballer Dwight Yorke, and models Agyness Deyn, Nell McAndrew and Elen Rivas. Cracknell suffered brain damage when he collided with a lorry in a cycling endurance race in the United States in July. Cracknell, who was raising money for brain injury charity Headway, said: "Today I can draw a whole line under the thing and move on." McAndrew, who was raising money for Cancer Research UK, said: "It's just such an incredible day. I feel really lucky to have a place to experience the London Marathon again."
Kenyas Mary Keitany takes a drink during the womens London Marathon April 17, 2011. Keitany strode away from the field after the halfway point to win the London womens marathon on Sunday and on right Martin Lel kneels down to pray at the finishing line 'Training falls' Pc Rathband will be raising money for his charity which supports emergency services personnel who have been injured by criminals in the line of duty. Deyn, who is also an actress and singer, is hoping to finish the course inside four hours. "You can do anything that you put your mind to. I feel that's the thing I've discovered doing this and that can seep into everything in your life," she said. Dublin-born Karl Twomey, 37, who will be running backwards, is among more than 100 people hoping to break marathon records of one kind or another. Speaking before the race, he said: "It's not so much neck ache, it's more landing on my butt. I've had a few falls in training. Obstacles are the problem. "I was veering in the wrong direction into poles, bins - you name it, I've hit it." Organisers have added seven Japanese athletes after what was supposed to be their final trial for the world championships - the Nagoya Marathon - was cancelled because of the earthquake and tsunami.
Sir Richard Branson signs autographs before officially starting the 2011 Virgin Money London Marathon on April 17, 2011 in London, England. 36,500 competitors will tackle the 26.2 mile course which passes several iconic London landmarks and finishes on the Mall in front of Buckingham Palace and on right A man holds a humorous sign with depictions of Britains Queen Elizabeth, Prince Charles (top R), Prince Philip (bottom) and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall (L), before the start of the London Marathon
Kenya’s double delight as Mutai and Keitany do it in London Emmanuel Mutai made it a Kenyan double after winning the Virgin London Marathon in a new course record. Earlier, compatriot Mary Keitany smashed her personal best to claim a commanding victory in the women's race. Mutai's time of 2:04.38, beats the previous best of 2:05.10 set by Samuel Wanjiru in 2009 and also the fifth-fastest time ever. The 26-year-old, second here last year, broke away at around the 21-mile mark with three-time winner Martin Lel and Patrick Makau making it a clean sweep for Kenya - Lel just edging out his fellow Kenyans in a sprint finish. Keitany broke away after 15 miles and never looked like being caught as she clocked an unofficial time of two hours 19 minutes and 17 seconds, almost 10 minutes quicker than her debut in New York last year. The 29-year-old began the year by setting a new world record of 1:05.50 for the half-marathon, becoming the first woman to run under 66 minutes. And she proved equally adept at double the distance to relegate defending champion Liliya Shobukhova of Russia into second, with Kenya's Edna Kiplagat in third.
British Bladerunner beat his record at London Marathon
An amputee runner prepares to depart Blackheath before the start of the 2011 Virgin Money London Marathon on April 17, 2011 in London, England. 36,500 competitors will tackle the 26.2 mile course which passes several iconic London landmarks and finishes on the Mall in front of Buckingham Palace.
Kenyans caught between a rock and hard place Fears are mounting that Kenyans could be hit by Uganda-like protests due to continued increase in food and fuel prices making the cost of living unbearable. Consumers Federation of Kenya (Cofek), a lobby group, has given a notice for peaceful demonstrations on Tuesday to protest the surging fuel prices. Cofek’s Secretary General Stephen Mutoro has appealed to motorists and commuters to walk to work and keep roads free of vehicles, as part of the protest to highlight their sufferings. He warns that Kenya risks facing the protests that Uganda has faced lately due to a similar problem. On Thursday, Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) released new rates for the month of April-May with some prices increasing by up to Sh13. In reaction, the have hiked fares others by even 30 per cent. Others are threatening to charge even more. And the alarm bells are also ringing from the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) because the high fuel prices have increased production and transport costs. "We are calling upon consumers and other like-minded stakeholders to prepare themselves for a major public peaceful demonstration on Tuesday, through which we will present memoranda to Parliament, Office of the President, Office of the Prime Minister, and Kiraitu Murungi’s office," said Mutoro. In neighbouring Uganda, opposition leader Kizza Besigye led a demonstration to protest the runaway prices, but was shot in the arm by an army officer quelling the protests. Back home, Kenyans are digging deeper into their pockets to put meals on their tables as the price of common foods such as ugali, rice and bread remains on a steady increase. A two-kilogramme packet of maize flour is retailing at between Sh87 and Sh90, up from Sh70 in mid- last year. The price 2kg rice is 290 although a similar pack of sugar has remained relatively constant at Sh195. To make matters worse, some consumers say the quantities have reduced. Stern warning Millers have also warned that these prices would increase further should the Government fail to put in place measures that will cushion consumers. Cereal Millers Association’s Chairman Diamond Lalji says the predicted maize scarcity has led to hoarding by farmers in the hope that the prices could soar above the current Sh2,500 a 90kgbag. "Supply is low and that means prices are high, consequently will translate into very high cost for consumers," he says. Kenyans are also paying higher for cooking oil or fat, sugar and milk. A packet of wheat flour is Sh130 from Sh115, while the 400gm bread has hit the Sh40 mark from Sh35. A 500gm packet of milk is retailing at between Sh29 and 32. One-kilo of cooking fat is retailing at Sh225; a litre of corn oil is going for Sh199 while a litre of sunflower oil is being sold at Sh240. And as if buying food expensively is not enough, cooking food is increasingly becoming a costly affair as the price of kerosene – a commodity used in many homes – also continues to increase unabated. In the latest prices by ERC, kerosene has gone up by more than Sh7 to Sh90.91 up from Sh83. Kenya Private Sector Alliance chairman Patrick Obath faults the Government for dictating the price of kerosene. "Kerosene prices should never be fixed because of the users who have very low purchasing power and the market forces should determine pricing," said Obath. The future looks bleak especially due to seed shortage and the weatherman predicts fluctuations in long rains. That is not all. The Government has largely remained indifferent to the plight of Kenyans as high taxes and inflation continue to put more pressure on overburdened wananchi. Curbing Government waste It is not enough that the prices of crude oil are skyrocketing as a result of the unrest in the oil-producing countries in the Arab world. The Government has imposed heavy taxes on fuel to raise money for putting up new roads and repairing the existing ones. "Efficiency should be enhanced in Government spending for example the ever increasing MPs perks should be stopped forthwith. Instead, this money should be spent in development activities like building more roads in the infrastructure sector and better health services to reduce the cost of living," says Obath. The price of wheat has gone up in Ukraine and other producers of the grain and the Government has retained a 10 per cent import duty on wheat. Never mind this tax regime was introduced to cushion local farmers who now cannot meet the demand. KAM Chief Executive Betty Maina faults the Government for retaining import duty on wheat, although countries such as Ukraine that produce the grain have been hit by acute shortage pushing the prices up. Political activist Okoiti Okiya Omtata says there have been protests, albeit quietly. "It is just a matter of time before Kenyans reach that breaking point and take to the streets," he says. - Sunday Standard.
Pastor Mwaura and Mr. Blessed have lost their dad Pastor Patrick Mwaura of Dagenham, Essex has sadly lost his father, Mzee John Njoroge Mukiri. He was the beloved husband of Mwalimu Beth Njeri Njoroge. He is also the father to Hannah Wambui and Leah Wanjiku of Houston, Texas, USA and Mukiri Blessed, Pauline Muthoni Kamau, Gladys Wanjiru and Maggy wangui all in Kenya. He was a grandfather to many. He hailed from Thakwa village; Githunguri; Kiambu Kenya. He died en route to hospital on the morning of Saturday, the 16th of April 2011 after an illness courageously borne in dignity, strengthened by his belief in the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Family and friends are meeting for prayers every evening starting from 7.PM at Pastor Mwaura’s residence, 199 Stamford Road, Dagenham, Essex, RM9 4EL. For more information please contact Pastor Mwaura on 07723076569 or Mama Njoroge on 07930601283. Please join the family for prayers at this difficult time as they mourn the passing of their beloved father and thank God for his life.
MARTIN LEL COMEBACK
Spring storms kill 11 in southern states of US
Severe spring storms including tornados have left 11 people dead and destroyed school buildings and homes in southern states of the US. They whipped through Arkansas, Oklahoma and Alabama, where one death was confirmed on Friday night. In Texas, winds fuelled wildfires which killed a firefighter and forced hundreds of evacuations. In Mississippi, a state of emergency was declared for 14 counties and strong winds felled trees in Georgia. In the small town of Tushka, Oklahoma, two elderly sisters were killed and at least 25 people injured, while five school buildings were destroyed. The other seven deaths were reported in Arkansas
As the storm howled through Crystal Springs, Arkansas, Eden Davis woke up, grabbed her young child and sat on the edge of the bed waiting to pull a mattress over both of them to shield the pair from flying debris, AP reports. "I've never been so nervous about a storm," she said. "I was asleep, but my fiance called me and told me to wake up and that I needed to watch the news because the weather was getting real bad." While several tornados were reported, much of the damage in the south was attributed to straight-line winds - sudden, violent downbursts that struck with hurricane force in the middle of the night.
A Kenyan in the British Military is among the Royal Wedding team - Photos and more later.
A LUO PROVERB Kik iwit chiemo ka idhi ka ruoth. Don't throw away the food you have because you hope to get better or more from the chief's home. A bird in hand is better than two in the bush.
A nice cartoon sent to Mr. Seed
OVERHEARD BY MR. SEED: "We are not the world's social services, Britain should come out of Libya." - Radio One commentator, London
Cat gives birth to dog
Sheep giving birth to dog? That's so last season... meet the CAT who's just become the proud mother of a kitten-puppy - also in China, oddly enough. Zhou Yun, the cat's owner, says she knew her furry friend was pregnant so she wasn't surprised when she happened upon two kittens at the beginning of the month. On closer inspection, however, she noticed that one of the babies was dead. 'I then noticed the other kitten surprisingly looks like a dog,' Zhou, who lives in Yangshan, in eastern China's Jiangsu Province, told reporters. Zhou, who's also the owner of a pet dog that likes to eat and sleep with its feline pal (hmm...), added: 'Quite possibly the kitty is a mixed child'. Lai Xiaoyun, president of a local pet clinic, has sagely pointed out (after having a good look at the kitten-puppy, to be fair) that it's impossible for a cat to give birth to a dog. He reckons Zhou's cat popped out two kittens and one died shortly after: 'So the cat went out and accidentally found a litter of newborn puppies and took one home.' 'Cats and dogs are two different species and it's impossible to have joint descendants,' he concluded.
FEP-GROUP MEETING KENYANS IN UK "Last minute Investment opportunities at hand"
Arch. John Kithaka arrives in UK from USA tomorrow Tuesday 12th April, 2011. The National Chairman of Fountain Enterprises Programme and CEO of FEP Group of companies will be in UK for a week where he will be holding several meetings to explain to Kenyans in the UK how to invest with them. Mr. Kithaka who is an architect by profession is the man who believes that the sky is the limit when working as a team. The power of many is their slogan. The FEP Group of Companies focuses in five key areas of investments. 1) Banking 2) Hotels and Tourism 3) Media and Technology 4) Schools 5) Real Estates. He is visiting Kenyans in the Diaspora to woo them to invest with them and make them embrace the evolving investment opportunities in line with the new constitution. The founder shares to this noble investment opportunity shall close on 15th May 2011 (see below). They are already a micro-finance with operations in eight counties. The micro-finance is scheduled to metamorphosis into a deposit taking micro-finance by June 2012 and finally into a fully fledged bank by latest June 2015. Currently they are running two successful schools, Fountain School, Tigoni and Fountain School Mwea. They are already at an advance stage of putting up the first state of the art 200-bed capacity hotel in Nanyuki due for completion by June 2013. See below for the meeting venues in US and UK. For further information please visit www.fep-group.com
COVENTRY MEETING ON WEDNESDAY 13TH APRIL 2011 FEP UK MEETINGS
UK MEETINGS - 13TH - 17TH APRIL, 2011 COVENTRY, UK - WEDNESDAY 13TH APRIL, 2011 The Rocket Pub - Coventry, 103 Warwick Road, Coventry, CV3 6AN, UK as from 5.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m. Contact 07701011363 LUTON - 15TH APRIL, 2011 Tripple Em Foods @ Roman Way Pub,93 Tomlinson Avenue,LU4 0QL, from 6pm to 9.00 p.m. Contact Joe 07540845930. BEDFORD - SATURDAY 16TH APRIL 2011 BEDFORD MEETING CANCELLED GRAYS, ESSEX - SUNDAY 17TH APRIL, 2010 Proclaimers Sanctuary Church, Grays School of Media Arts College, Hathaway Road, Grays, RM17 5LL as from 11.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. Contact Pastor Karanja on 07903157894. PCEA UK OUTREACH, STRATFORD - SUNDAY 17TH APRIL, 2011 - 5.00 P.M. A meeting will take place at PCEA UK Outreach at Brickfield Christian Centre, Welfare Road, Stratford OTHER CONTACTS Margery Nyaga 07725982003,
We’re saddened, Chelsea FC tell Nyambura family
The Household Cavalry Conduct The Silver Stick Review As Practice Ahead Of The Royal Wedding
Members of The Household Cavalry take part in The Silver Stick Review in Hyde Park on April 14, 2011 in London, England. The rehearsal is for the review on April 21, when the Major General Commanding the Household Division determines whether the Household Cavalry is fit to perform their ceremonial duties for the Summer, including the Royal Wedding on April 29 and the Queen's Birthday Parade (Trooping the Colour) in June.
Kenyans concerned over rising food, fuel prices Just a day after fuel prices went up, a new opinion poll shows that most Kenyans cited the rising food and fuel prices in the country as their biggest problem. The latest poll released on Friday by synovate research indicates that 33 percent cited the price of food, the cost of fuel and poverty as their main area of concern. Synovate Head of Research of Tom Wolf said that a majority of Kenyans are concerned with the high increase in the food prices in the country. Of those polled, 26 percent said the issue of food, hunger and famine remained the most critical, 9pc cited unemployment, while 6pc said their biggest grouse was politics and the same number cited corruption and bribery. Three percent said it is climate change , two percent said it is insecurity while one percent cited health, water, housing and education as their biggest problem. And by province, In Nairobi, 29 percent of those interviewed cited the food prices, the cost of fuel and poverty as their major problem, in Central 38 percent cited the three issues as the major problem, Coast and Eastern 34 percent, Nyanza 41 percent, Rift Valley 37 percent, Western 46 percent, and North Eastern 34 percent. The poll came after the Energy Regulatory Commission on Thursday, in their monthly review, announced new fuel prices that pushed a litre of petrol to an all time high of Sh111 while diesel will retail at Sh107 and kerosene at Sh90. Super petrol will retail at a maximum of Sh111.17 in Nairobi and Sh107.92 in Mombasa, up from Sh102.44 and Sh99.19 respectively. In Kisumu, a litre of Super petrol has gone up to Sh113.42, while it is selling for Sh113.36 in Eldoret and Sh112.25 in Mnadre and Lokichogio which were the highest hit will now have to pay Shs 123 and 120 for a liter of petrol and diesel. This is the highest yet pricing set by the ERC since it started setting the maximum prices for oil marketers in December last year, using a fixed formula that calculates the princes of petrol, diesel and kerosene after putting in to account all prudently incurred costs of on the part of marketers. The prices have been on upward climb over the last four months after hitting past Shs100 mark last month due to what the ERC said is a jump in crude oil prices at the international market and unrest in most Arab oil producing countries. In the political sphere, Prime Minister Raila Odinga remains the most preferred presidential candidate (38pc) followed by Finance minister Uhuru Kenyatta at 18pc. Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka (13pc), Eldoret North MP William Ruto (8pc) and Gichugu MP Martha Karua (6pc). The poll further shows that 67 percent of the respondents feel that Raila's Orange Democratic Movement is the least united, 10 percent think its Party of National Unity, 15 percent are not sure, while four percent Ford Kenya and three percent did not respond. On the Constitution, 25 percent believe that political interest will hinder the implementation of the Constitution, 27 percent cited lack of cohesion, 16 percent corruption,10 percent lack of political will and six percent lack of awareness.
UHURU KENYATTA OFFICIALLY DENIES HE LOST 840M AT THE AIRPORT
The front page article in 'The Standard' this morning is an atrocious falsehood and part of the current conspiracy to discredit the Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Uhuru Kenyatta. The description, the blogs (which specifically mention his name) plus the fact that only he reported a lost bag, make it very clear that the accusations are specifically against the DPM. His assistant left one of his bags on the plane on Monday morning when they arrived back in Nairobi. All his bags had been subjected to normal security screening and scanning in Amsterdam. When the assistant went back to look for it, it was missing and the matter was reported to Kenya Airways and the police. The contents were detailed to the police and they are still tracing this bag. USD10m in USD100 notes weighs 100 kg is 4 cubic feet and the bag was a small computer bag. This just confirms how ludicrous the report is. Carrying that amount of cash is in contravention of many laws and constitutes a serious crime. The most serious being money laundering, which legislation the DPM was instrumental in having passed. The statement was not verified with either the DPM, the police nor any other authority. The DPM has therefore instructed his lawyers to take immediate legal action against the Standard for publishing such atrocious false hoods and has reported the matter to the police and requested them to investigate the very serious crimes that are committed by anyone who makes such serious false accusations. The consequences of such accusations are even more serious as they would mean his contravention of the Court Order issued by the Judges of the ICC. It appears that the object of the false accusations was an attempt to seriously prejudice the DPMs position before the court in the Hague. It is extremely disappointing that there are forces that will go to such lengths and write such obviously false statements in order to discredit the DPM. It is of extreme concern that the media can publish such unverified falsehoods. It is very important that the police find and expose the persons behind these atrocious accusations and that the media are taken to task for publishing, what is so obviously, a malicious and false report. Munyori Buku Director of Communication Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance
Kibaki hosts drama Festival Winners
President Mwai Kibaki chats with children from Ganjoni E.C.D.E, Mombasa who presented a choral verse during the Schools and Colleges Concert by the Drama Festivals Finalists at State House, Nairobi. President Mwai Kibaki Friday disclosed that the Government has established a national youth training academy and eight satellite in-school talent education centres in each region to nurture the country's youthful talent. President Kibaki pointed out that the initiative has been rolled out in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports and UNICEF. The President expressed satisfaction that the National Youth Training Academy now has 100 youths while the eight talent centres have 800 students taking part in the pilot stage. The Head of State was speaking at State House Nairobi where he hosted this year's Kenya National Drama Festival finalists for a winners' concert. The President added that the innovative tripartite partnership has activated 600 holiday training opportunities for the country's out-of-school youth and 200 in-school youth. "Moreover, the 200 talented but needy in-school youth get full year scholarships from UNICEF in form of school fees," the Head of State said. Expressing optimism that this initiative will evolve into a semi-autonomous talent development foundation, President Kibaki hoped that talented students, particularly those specializing in music, dance, film and theatre, will be well prepared to take up professional pursuits in these areas. "This will enable them, to boost their opportunities for growth and improve their livelihoods," President Kibaki said.
Extreme weddings: Your pictures
As the UK prepares for the royal wedding the BBC is looking at unusual nuptials as part of its Extreme World series. Here is a selection of your photos. Sarah Drown and her fiancé took to the slopes at Whistler, in British Columbia, Canada."
Colon Cleansing Herbs. Colon cleansing herbs are a safe way to help keep your colon healthy and functioning properly. Herbs give a boost to the body's natural ability to purify and flush toxins. Herbs that are good for colon cleansing also act upon the bloodstream and liver.
Red Clover -This herb acts as a mild laxative by helping to stimulate the colon to push waste through the bowels. Dandelion -This herb stimulates bile secretions. It “speeds up” the digestive process for the successful elimination of dangerous toxins and wastes in the body. Dandelion is used herb for complications with digestion.
Cascara sagrada -This herb acts both as a mild laxative and as a natural-tone builder for the large intestine.
Greece sell-off plans fail to quell debt worries (Reuters) - Greece laid out plans to sell stakes in key state firms and make further budget savings on Friday but failed to quell fears of debt restructuring fanned by a German official's comments. The premium it costs Athens to borrow on debt markets rose sharply for a second day -- by more than half a percentage point -- after a German deputy minister was quoted as saying it "would not be a disaster" for the debt-choked country to restructure. Greece said budget slippages this year will be covered with additional measures totalling 3 billion euros, including fighting tax evasion and further state spending cuts, while privatisations will bring in 2 to 4 billion euros in 2011. "The government presented today a broad and specific mid-term fiscal plan up to 2015," Finance Minister George Papaconstantinou told Reuters. "This shows the commitment and willingness to proceed with fiscal consolidation and proceed further with structural reforms." Speaking to a cabinet meeting, the minister said Athens will sell its stake in betting firm OPAP, Europe's biggest, and reduce its stake in power utility PPC from 51 percent to as low as 34 percent by next year but retain management. European policymakers have scrambled to reassure investors this week that a restructuring was not on the agenda, saying such a step could have dire consequences for European banks and the fragile economy of the 17-nation euro zone. But Germany's finance minister has acknowledged that further steps may be necessary and analysts say that could involve asking bond investors voluntarily to accept changes such as smaller or later payments. "A haircut or a restructuring of the debt would not be a disaster," news agency Bloomberg quoted Werner Hoyer, one of Berlin's deputy foreign ministers and a member of the junior coalition party Free Democrats (FDP) as saying. If Greece's creditors agreed that talks with Athens "would be helpful towards a restructuring of the debt, then of course this would be supported by us," Hoyer was quoted as saying. Kenya Airways to acquire nine 787-Dreamliners
Kenya Airways has signed a deal to acquire nine new 787-8 Dreamliners in 2013 as it plans to replace old fleets and expand to new markets. The national carrier had previously signed signed an agreement with Boeing in 2006 to be supplied with the planes, which stipulated that the first aircraft be delivered in 2010. The deal failed but after reaching an agreement on Thursday, the first Dreamliner plane will be delivered in the third quarter of 2013. KQ chief executive officer Titus Naikuni, while signing the agreement, said that the new acquisition, though delayed was the investment needed to expand their market share. The new aircrafts are expected to replace the ageing 767 fleet. Boeing Africa sales director, Rob Faye noted that the new aircrafts have innovative interior environment, higher humidity, wider seats, aisles and larger windows. The 787 planes carry between 200 to 300 passengers on routes between 6,500 to 16,000 kilometres. The new planes will also accommodate 45 per cent cargo than the previous model. - Daily Nation.
Salim Junior arrives for the UK performances
Popular Kenyan Artist Salim Junior arrived at Gatwick Airport on Thursday afternoon 14th April, 2011. He was met at the airport by friends and fans who escorted him through the heavy traffic jam of M25 where he was surprised to see a heavier traffic jam than in Nairobi. A fan explained to him jokingly this is the kind of the traffic your fans will face queuing for your concert. His first performance will be on Good Friday 22nd April, 2011 in Bristol. Salim Junior seen in the middle holding a young girl with a red jacket after arrival at Gatwick Airport and Mr. Kinyungu on far right was at hand with other friends to welcome him. He is currently resid
Outlook uncertain, G20 to target imbalances (Reuters) - Faced with an uneven world recovery and uncertain outlook, finance leaders were hoping on Friday to flesh out a plan to build a global economy less prone to the booms and busts of recent decades. Forging consensus among central bankers and ministers from the Group of 20 advanced and developing economies won't be easy amid the current array of threats to stability, including high oil prices and debt levels, and unrest across the Middle East. But with officials eager to avoid a recurrence of the 2007-2009 crisis and the worst global recession since World War Two, Canadian Finance Minister Jim Flaherty said addressing imbalances between export-rich and debt-burdened countries that have long plagued the global economy was a top G20 priority. Many economists say these imbalances contributed to the crisis, as emerging market countries reinvested their surpluses in Western markets and caused excessive risk-taking by banks. The G20 accounts for 85 percent of world output and is now the main forum for trying to reform the world's financial system. But it has become hard to agree on just how to do that now that the darkest days of the financial crisis have passed. An uncertain outlook complicates things further. Signs of recovery in some rich countries have led their central banks to raise interest rates. But high oil and food prices threaten to slow growth and worsen unrest in some developing countries. Then, there's the euro zone's sovereign debt crisis, political infighting over the massive U.S. deficit and the damage from last month's earthquake, tsunami and nuclear crisis in Japan, the world's third-largest economy. Officials on Friday were likely to push for a deal on how to apply guidelines to identify countries with excess trade deficits or surpluses. "It is a matter of credibility for the G20 that we agree on the indicative guidelines this weekend," said Olli Rehn, the European Union's economic and monetary affairs commissioner. The International Monetary Fund, which holds its twice-yearly meetings this weekend, warned officials not to grow complacent about the recovery's prospects. "The apex of the crisis is behind us, but it would be part of the complacency I am trying to avoid to believe we are in a post-crisis era," IMF chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn said. The G20 wasn't expected on Friday to name specific countries that spend or save too much, but if it did, the United States and China would almost certainly top the list. It would probably include others. French Finance Minister Christine Lagarde said Thursday the biggest economies -- those representing 5 percent of total G20 output -- might get special scrutiny. That would also include France, Germany and Japan. Beyond that the G20 hopes to discuss how to apply guidelines. That might be done through computer modelling, with sources telling Reuters four different models for identifying imbalances were being discussed. Canada's Flaherty expected ministers to reach agreement, but added: "there are still some bumps along the road." KENYA MARATHON TEAM PRACTISING IN LONDON "No junk food, no alcohol, no women.... the last continues" their coach explained.
The Kenyan marathon team have arrived in London ready for the London Marathon on Sunday 17th April, 2011. The team have been warned to keep away from public by their coach as this would reduce their performances on Sunday. "No junk food, no alcohol, no women.... the last continues" their coach explained. His Excellency the High Commissioner Mr Eprhraim Ngare will lead Kenyans in UK in supporting and cheering the athletes at the London Marathon this Sunday 17th April 2011. The schools have gone on break, a great day out for the kids and family to show patriotism by celebrating and supporting our Kenyan athletes. London Marathon has a carnivore atmosphere. Please wear anything Kenyan colors, bring your flags, and create your own banners with messages of support. (You may insert the names of the athletes below). Let your presence be felt by the world media. Encourage your colleagues to join you. Kenyans will congregate at Mile 16 and Mile 17 of the race route. (Gaveric Street / Westferry Road, Poplar, Greater London E14 3UK). With only 10 miles to go, this is where the race begins to get tough and the athletes require all the support. This spot is relatively quiet and will attract the world’s media. The athletes will be expected at Mile 16 and 17 at 10.30 am. Please use public transport as most roads in London will be SHUT. The nearest tube stations are Mudchute DLR and Isle of Dogs. The athletes are Martin Lel, Lornah Kiplagat, Julius Mwangi, Patrick Makau, Abel Kirui, Lornah Kiplagat, Mary Keitany, Emmanuel Mutai.
Extreme weddings: Your pictures
As the UK prepares for the royal wedding the BBC is looking at unusual nuptials as part of its Extreme World series. Here is a selection of your photos. Sarah Drown and her fiancé took to the slopes at Whistler, in British Columbia, Canada."
More details of the royal wedding have been released by Buckingham Palace Kate Middleton and her immediate family will spend the night before the wedding at the Goring Hotel in Belgravia, central London. The five-star hotel was the Middleton family's personal choice and, according to press reports, she will stay in the Royal suite. Prince William, second in line to the throne, will marry Miss Middleton on 29 April at Westminster Abbey. Jeremy Goring, Chief Executive Officer of the Goring Hotel, said: "We are honoured and delighted to be playing a small part in such a great day. We wish Miss Middleton and Prince William every happiness, and we are all looking forward to a momentous celebration." He said: "The Goring is the only five-star hotel in London that is still owned and run by the family that built it." Mr Goring said the 100-year-old hotel was famous for its "superbly cooked British food" and "uniquely personable English style of service". Clarence House has also revealed the exact timings of the wedding day. The route will pass along The Mall, Horse Guards Road, Horse Guards Parade, through Horse Guards Arch, Whitehall, along the south side of Parliament Square and into Broad Sanctuary. The wedding service will be relayed to the gathered crowds by speakers along the route. There will also be screens at Hyde Park and Trafalgar Square. More information for people wanting to watch the service in central London is available at www.direct.gov.uk/royalwedding.
TIMETABLE
SALIM JUNIOR ARRIVES IN UK
A popular Kenyan Artist Salim Junior arrived in London on Thursday morning 14th April, 2011 for a one month performances in UK. The first show kicks off in Bristol before visiting other UK cities - See the programme below. He is well known for his solos especially the popular mugithi. A popular Kenyan Artist Salim Junior arrived in London on Thursday morning 14th April, 2011 for a one month performances in UK. The first show kicks off in Bristol before visiting other UK cities - See the programme below. He is well known for his solos especially the popular mugithi. Paul Mwangi Salim is the first born in a family of eight. Born to Joe Salim Mwangi and Eunice Wangari Salim. He was born in Subukia, Nakuru district 35 years ago. He went to Subukia primary school and Subukia secondary school. He started his career in 1992 in a Nakuru club and then later joined Subukia success band led by the late Sammy Muraya Waire then Qeenja less less band led by the ever green Queen Jane. Later he started my solo career late 1997 in a club along Thika road call heritage village and it was a success. Ever since he has been a solo guitarist cum vocalist dong all kind of Oldies. (the songs that were hits before his time) under the name of Mugithi both secular and gospel). He is a family man with two daughters and a God fearing man. Special thanks to his parents for their support not forgetting his fans in Kenya and Europe, his manager.
Public worries as petrol prices hit highest mark of Kshs. 111
Fuel pump prices in Nairobi have gone up by eight shillings to 111 shillings after the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) adjusted the prices in line with the price control regulations. Diesel has also gone up to 107.52 shillings in the city up from 98.71 l. In Kisumu and Eldoret, consumers will be paying 113 shillings per litre of super petrol, while diesel will retail at 109 shillings per litre. Motorists in Mandera and Lokichogio as Super petrol will go for 123 shillings a litre while diesel will retail at 120 shillings. Energy regulatory Authority says the pressure has been as a result of international crude oil. ERC attributes the hike to the rise in crude oil prices to a two year high of 122.50 dollars per barrel resulting from unrest in the Middle East and the high demand for the commodity by China and India. Petroleum products price control was introduced in December last year and was aimed at taming the run away fuel prices a goal that has not been achieved so far. Last week energy minister faulted the ERC formula of calculating the oil prices of not reflecting the market fundamentals and deviating from the main aim. Meanwhile, Kenyans are angered by saying that prices of other basic commodities will go up. Speaking to Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, a cross section of the Kenyan public appealed to the government to bring down inflation. The hike comes a midst outcry by members of the public who are had pressed by the high inflationary tendencies currently being experienced in the country.
The Household Cavalry Conduct The Silver Stick Review As Practice Ahead Of The Royal Wedding
Members of The Household Cavalry take part in The Silver Stick Review in Hyde Park on April 14, 2011 in London, England. The rehearsal is for the review on April 21, when the Major General Commanding the Household Division determines whether the Household Cavalry is fit to perform their ceremonial duties for the Summer, including the Royal Wedding on April 29 and the Queen's Birthday Parade (Trooping the Colour) in June.
PM defends tough immigration stance David Cameron has defended his tough stance on immigration as "moderate, sensible and reasonable" after he was accused by Liberal Democrat cabinet colleague Vince Cable of inflaming extremism. The Prime Minister said it was time Britain returned to the immigration levels of the 1980s and 1990s when the number of people coming to the UK was in the "tens of thousands, rather than the hundreds of thousands". The UK needed "good immigration, not mass immigration", he told Tory party activists in Southampton as he attacked the "woeful" welfare system which saw Britons languishing on state handouts while foreign workers snapped up new jobs. But his speech, which comes three weeks before Conservatives and Liberal Democrats face their first major ballot box showdown since joining forces in Government, drew angry criticism from Mr Cable. The Business Secretary, who has publicly questioned the impact of a cap on foreign entrants on businesses and universities, described the Prime Minister's comments as "very unwise". "The reference to the tens of thousands of immigrants rather than hundreds of thousands is not part of the coalition agreement. It is Tory party policy only," he told the BBC. "I do understand there is an election coming but talk of mass immigration risks inflaming the extremism to which he and I are both strongly opposed." But Mr Cameron said he could not be accused of fuelling extremism and denied alienating his Lib Dem colleagues. Speaking later in Woking, he added: "Firstly, on the issue of immigration, I would say the speech I gave was extremely moderate, sensible and reasonable, and I challenge anyone to read it and come to a different conclusion. "What I was setting out is what is Government policy - what is agreed coalition policy in terms of controlling immigration properly, which we've debated inside Government, and agreed." The split was seized upon by Labour. Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: "The Tory-led Government's immigration policy is in chaos. And now the Business Secretary has said he doesn't even agree with the policy in the first place."
METHALI YA KISWAHILI FIKARA NDOGO HUFANYA MTU ANENE SANA Little thoughtfulness causes a person to talk/say too much Ocampo goes to war over Hague witnesses
Prosecutor Luis Moreno-Ocampo has reopened the fight over witnesses and the evidence he is relying on to try post election violence suspects. Mr Moreno-Ocampo has sought permission to appeal an order by the International Criminal Court requiring him to share with defence lawyers the number of witnesses, type of evidence and witness statements he intends to use in the case against six Kenyans. The suspects are Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta, Public Service boss Francis Muthaura, Postmaster-General Hussein Ali, MPs William Ruto and Henry Kosgey and broadcaster Joshua Sang. The intention to appeal was made on Wednesday, five days before the court starts reviewing the status of the information sharing. Defence lawyers told the Nation that they would fight the appeal. “We will oppose it vigorously. It is an indication that the prosecutor is developing cold feet. He is under obligation to disclose sufficient information to enable us prepare our defence,” said Mr Gershom Otachi, who represents Maj-Gen Ali. He
Ms Rachel Njeri a Kenyan Gospel Artist (left) from Nottingham performing at PCEA UK Outreach Church in London on Sunday 10th April, 2011 and on right Master Solomon Kamanu and friends drums up the beat.
ICC suspect loses Sh840m at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport Police are investigating the reported loss of hand luggage containing about Sh840 million in hard cash. The luggage was being carried by one of The Hague suspects at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The police were told the bag had US$10 million in $100 bills. The bills had been tied in bundles and stuffed in the black bag he was seen carrying when he alighted from the plane. "He had it when he came, only his bodyguards have recorded statements. He fears the perception the public would have of him if it were revealed he had with him such huge amount of money. He has asked the police to keep it secret,’’ a senior police officer told The Standard in confidence. When two of his bodyguards were questioned where they were when the bag disappeared, they explained to investigators they had gone to clear their boss’ papers with airport staff. The bodyguards reportedly went looking for the bag on Monday evening – more than ten hours after the politician’s arrival. They also later recorded statements explaining the circumstances in which they suspect the baggage went missing. Police sources at Criminal Investigations Department headquarters and JKIA revealed the bodyguards cited their boss, saying he forgot the baggage at the VIP Lounge II, as he left in a hurry to board his car on Monday. "They say the bag had a lot of money in US dollars and their boss left it in the lounge, went for a short call, came back, and sat for a short while before they stood up and left for the arrival area," said a police source, who asked not to be named because of the sensitive nature of the loss and the orders to keep the investigations close to their chests. The circumstances around the massive loss remain mysterious because surveillance cameras, according to police sources, only recorded the politician with the bag inside the VIP Lounge II, and when he changed his seat. But the Monday morning CCTV camera footage the police have been ordered to review meticulously record the politician sitting in the lounge with his bag, but does not capture what happened to the bulky hand luggage after he rose to go to the washrooms. - The Standard.
Q&A: UK immigration cap The coalition government has placed an annual limit on the number of immigrants allowed into the UK from outside the European Union.
How does the British immigration system currently work? There are different ways to come to live or settle permanently in the UK. Migrants fall into five broad categories: those coming for long-term work, students, temporary workers and visitors, refugees and asylum seekers and people arriving for family reasons. There are different laws and policies governing each element of the system. For instance, on asylum, the UK has international obligations to provide refuge to people who have fled persecution. The most complicated part of the system is the broad criteria around economic migration.
How are economic migrants dealt with? The rules for economic migration, which includes students, broadly divide migrants into two groups. If a migrant is a citizen from one of the European Union's member states (or one of the other counties in the European Economic Area - EEA), then they are free to compete for jobs in the UK. They are not subject to immigration controls. This is because the UK is part of the European free market under which goods, services and labour can freely move across borders. The rules mean that British workers can equally seek work and settle across the rest of the EU.
And what about if you come from elsewhere? If you come from anywhere else, including Commonwealth nations, a migrant has to apply under one of the "tiers" that make up the Points Based System (PBS). Students are also covered by the PBS. In short, the system awards points to migrants based on their skills, qualifications and experience. Putting it very simplistically, a young applicant with a doctorate and proof of high earnings will earn more points that someone who is less skilled - and therefore find it's easier for them to come to the UK. The PBS has five "tiers". Tiers one and two cover highly skilled and skilled migrants respectively. Tier three was designed for unskilled workers but has never been implemented. Tier four covers students and the final tier covers a host of temporary workers and special categories. This graphic shows the categories of migrants from outside of Europe:
So is the coalition scrapping this system? No. But they are reforming it to meet their long-term goal. They want to reduce net immigration to "tens of thousands each year, not hundreds of thousands" over the lifetime of the parliament. Net immigration is the difference between those arriving and those leaving. The government want to introduce an immigration cap to help achieve that goal and the first one is due to come into force in April 2011. This was a Conservative election pledge that was opposed by their coalition partners, the Liberal Democrats.
And how high is net immigration at the moment? The latest official figures show that 196,000 more people came to the UK than left in 2009. That figure includes British citizens returning from living abroad and people from inside the EEA. In all, more than half a million people migrated to the UK in 2008 - and the figure has been rising over the long-term, in line with the experiences of many industrialised nations.
What were immigration levels like in the 1980s? It is difficult to compare official figures for immigration from the 1980s to more recent numbers because the method for calculating them has changed. Since 1991, they now attempt to take account of people applying for asylum or those extending their short-term visa to stay more permanently. According to the figures available, at the beginning of the 1980s the UK continued to see a net loss of migrants, as it had in the 1970s, with British citizens choosing to leave the UK. This wave of emigration peaked in 1981 when 108,000 British and EU citizens decided to leave and only 28,000 people arrived to settle in the UK. But by 1983 more people were coming to live in the UK than were leaving. This reached a peak of 58,000 migrants in 1985, and the flow of people into the UK continued for every year for the rest of the decade, except 1988, setting a pattern that would continue into the 1990s.
So how will the government achieve its target? Experts say that if the government is to hit its target of reducing net migration, it has to pull levers that will slow long-term immigration while, at the same time, take steps to increase the rate of emigration. The only problem is that there are not that many levers that can be pulled. Some 15% of people moving into the UK are returning British citizens, so their movements cannot be affected - but there are counted in the statistics. The government cannot block EEA nationals who make up about a third of all arrivals. The remaining half - about 280,000 people - are long-term arrivals from the rest of the world. These are the people whose movements can be influenced by policy changes.
So what does the cap involve - and how does it work? The immigration cap for non-EEA workers for the year from April 2011 is 21,700 - about 6,300 lower than in 2009. Of those, 20,700 are been tier two skilled migrants entering graduate occupations with a job offer and sponsorship. The other 1,000 are people allowed in under a new "exceptional talent" route - people like scientists, academics and artists. The former tier one general route - open to highly skilled migrants without a job offer will be closed. However, these limits do not apply to a category of workers who come to the UK in an "intra-company transfer" with their multinational employer. In other words, there will be other people coming in over and above the 21,700 limit. There will be a new minimum salary of £40,000 for firms using intra-company transfers (ICTs) for more than a year - but staff earning at least £24,000 would still be able to come for up to 12 months. Immigration restrictions are being lifted for people earning more than £150,000 a year, while scientists will be given a "significant advantage" in their attempts to come to the UK to work.
So what else can the government do? According to Professor David Metcalf, chairman of the government's Migration Advisory Committee, students from outside the EEA make up 60% of the migrants whose movements can be restricted. He said in his recent report that the government cannot meet its target by restricting workers alone. The following graph shows how highly skilled and skilled workers from outside the EEA make up a small part of the number of people applying for visas - although bear in mind that not all of those counted below are permanent or long-term immigrants: Home Secretary Theresa May says she is looking at how to cut their numbers - but it's not clear who will be targeted and whether the Liberal Democrats will accept restrictions. She says her forthcoming consultation on students will focus on allowing in students who are studying for degrees or those joining "highly trusted" colleges. This is a controversial area. Languages colleges are big legitimate businesses - but it's widely accepted that there is also abuse where people use student visas as a means of coming to work in the UK. Another route that the Home Secretary will target is a mechanism that allows some students to take jobs at the end of their course.
What about family reunion? Families make up the final 20% of migrants from outside the EEA - but curtailing their right to arrive will be difficult to achieve because of human rights law. However, the government is also looking at measures to boost the numbers leaving the UK by restricting rights to settle or to extend a work visa. Mrs May says she wants to end the link between temporary migration for work - and permanent settlement.
What effect would a cap have? It's very difficult to know before it has happened. A large number of businesses have complained that it could damage economy - and Professor Metcalf has warned that there could be "serious long-term consequences for investment and job generation" if the restrictions on work visas were too tight.
80 HOURS COMMUNITY SERVICE FOR A KENYAN STUDENT IN NORTHAMPTON
A student took his landlord’s car without permission and crashed into a cafe in Northampton, forcing its closure for the past three months. Duke Ratemo, aged 21, was speeding in a VW Golf, which he had taken in January to collect his girlfriend, but crashed it into a wall. The force of the impact caused structural damage to Wolfie’s Cafe, in Earl Street, the Mounts, shattered the car’s windscreen and damaged its bumper. Northampton Crown Court heard Ratemo, who did not have a licence or insurance, then drove off and returned the car. Alex Bull, prosecuting, said the car’s owner came home to find it damaged and covered in brick dust. A witness reported seeing a flash and hearing the collision, and later described it as “one of the loudest bangs” he had ever heard. Ratemo, of Middlemore, Southfields, Northampton was charged with aggravated taking of a vehicle and dangerous driving. However, he pleaded guilty yesterday to careless driving, failing to stop after an accident, failing to report an accident and driving without a licence or insurance. The court heard he admitted going too fast and losing control before crashing into the wall. Judge Richard Bray disqualified the Kenyan-born student from driving for a year, with a 12-month community order, a £300 fine and he must do 80 hours’ community service. The judge said: “The disqualification is discretionary but not when you crash into a cafe and destroy a wall.” The damage to Wolfie’s Cafe has still to be repaired three months on and it has remained closed until further notice since the crash, which happened at about 9.15pm on Saturday, January 29.
Catching a python using RIGHT FOOT as a bait in CAMEROON
Wonders of this world will never cease. Have a look at this video. When you open scroll down. - VIDEO
GOSPEL ARTIST BEATRICE KARANJA IS IN UK
Mrs. Beatrice Wathenya Karanja (left), a Gospel Artist from Kenya has arrived in the UK . She will be ministering at Glory Restoration Ministries at 363 Woodway Lane, Potters Green, Coventry, CV2 2AP from Friday 15th April 2011 to Sunday 17th April 2011. Beatrice has several albums i.e. Kioneki Vol. 1, Kirathimo Giaku among others. She will be ministering live in this powerful Revival Meeting with Gospel Artist Joyce Muturi (right) among others. Beatrice is hosted by Pastor Jane Muiruri (Wamuita) of Glory Restoration Ministries, Coventry. Her contact number while in the UK is 07827855332. For more information please contact Pastor Jane on 07931488336. - - VIDEO Revival Schedule: Friday 15th April 2011 from 5.30pm- 8:30pm Saturday 16th April 2011 from 2:00pm- 6:00pm Sunday 17th April 2011 from 12:00 Noon – 3:00pm
THE SUFFERING THAT WAS ENJOYED BY OTHERS
As they say, sometimes life is not fair, Mau Mau veterans fought to independence, most of them died, others sufferred and those who remained nobody cared.
David Cameron says that immigrants should learn English
The UK prime minister warns in a speech that an unwillingness to integrate has created a disjointed Britain. David Cameron will warn that immigrants unable to speak English or unwilling to integrate have created a "kind of discomfort and disjointedness" which has disrupted communities across Britain. In his most outspoken speech on immigration since becoming prime minister, Cameron will blame Labour for allowing immigration to become "too high" and for adopting an approach that allowed the British National party to flourish. The prime minister will open his speech, in Hampshire, by saying that immigration is a hugely emotive subject that must be handled with sensitivity. But he will then say that Labour presided over the "largest influx" of immigration in British history, which saw 2.2 million more people settling in Britain between 1997 and 2009 than leaving to live abroad. Cameron will say this has placed serious pressure on schools, housing and the NHS, and has also created social pressures. "Real communities are bound by common experiences forged by friendship and conversation, knitted together by all the rituals of the neighbourhood, from the school run to the chat down the pub. And these bonds can take time," he will say. "So real integration takes time. That's why, when there have been significant numbers of new people arriving in neighbourhoods, perhaps not able to speak the same language as those living there, on occasions not really wanting or even willing to integrate, that has created a kind of discomfort and disjointedness in some neighbourhoods. This has been the experience for many people in our country – and I believe it is untruthful and unfair not to speak about it and address it." The prime minister will stride into sensitive political territory when he accuses Labour of helping to stoke an uncertain climate over immigration. Cameron believes Labour inflamed the issue by accusing critics of racism while at the same time pandering to the hard right. He will say: "I believe the role of politicians is to cut through the extremes of this debate and approach the subject sensibly and reasonably. The last government, in contrast, actually helped to inflame the debate. On the one hand, there were Labour ministers who closed down discussion, giving the impression that concerns about immigration were somehow racist. On the other, there were ministers hell-bent on burnishing their hardline credentials by talking tough but doing nothing to bring the numbers down. "This had damaging consequences in terms of controlling immigration and in terms of public debate. It created the space for extremist parties to flourish, as they could tell people that mainstream politicians weren't listening to their concerns or doing anything about them." The speech may add to coalition tensions after the Liberal Democrats distanced themselves from the prime minister's language. Nick Clegg saw the speech which he "noted rather than approved". One Lib Dem source said: "We use different language. But we all work in government to strike a balance to ensure Britain has a system people have confidence in." No 10 insisted that the speech does not mark a return to the era of William Hague as Tory leader when he used the issue as part of a "core votes" strategy. On the eve of the 2001 election, Hague warned that Britain was in danger of turning into a "foreign land" in remarks that technically referred to the EU. Cameron will say that Britain has benefited hugely from immigration. "Go into any hospital and you'll find people from Uganda, India and Pakistan who are caring for our sick and vulnerable. Go into schools and universities and you'll find teachers from all over the world, inspiring our young people." But the prime minister will use his speech to challenge those who say: • Immigration cannot be controlled because Britain is a member of the EU. Cameron will say that future EU member states will be subject to tougher transitional controls and the UK can address immigration from outside the EU through the cap on non-EU immigration. • Immigration can be controlled – but to do so would inflict serious damage on the economy. Cameron will say the government is thinking "incredibly carefully" about which workers should come. But the prime minister will make clear that immigration cannot be controlled until Britain's welfare system is reformed. "Put simply, we will never control immigration properly unless we tackle welfare dependency. That's another powerful reason why this government is undertaking the biggest shake-up of the welfare system for generations making sure that work will always pay and ending the option of living a life on the dole when a life in work is possible." The prime minister will also condemn forced marriages and those who say they should be tolerated. "There are forced marriages taking place in our country, and overseas as a means of gaining entry to the UK. This is the practice where some young British girls are bullied and threatened into marrying someone they don't want to. "I've got no time for those who say this is a culturally relative issue – it is wrong, full stop, and we've got to stamp it out. Then there are just the straightforward sham marriages."In February, the prime minister gave a speech in Munich condemning "state multiculturalism" which had "tolerated these segregated communities behaving in ways that run counter to our values".
Obama proposes $4tn spending cuts to tackle deficit President's 12-year plan to reduce budget deficit includes curbs on defence spending and Medicare reforms. Barack Obama has set the stage for a new and bigger budget showdown with the Republicans, proposing a staggering $4 trillion (£2.46tn) in spending cuts over the next 12 years aimed at reducing America's runaway deficit. Although the cut is enormous, it still falls well short of the $6.2tn the Republicans are demanding. The battle is set to dwarf last week's 2011 budget row that came within an hour of seeing the federal government shut down. The size of the deficit, more than $14tn, is one of the biggest political issues in the US, especially with the country in hock to China, which has accumulated a hoard of dollars. The deficit was one of the main reasons for the rise of the Tea Party movement and contributed to the Republican victory in last November's congressional elections. Obama has proposed to tackle the deficit by curbing defence spending and ending tax breaks introduced by George W Bush for wealthy Americans – those earning more than $250,000 a year. In a move that will anger the Democratic base, Obama is also suggesting further cuts to come from reforms to Medicaid, which provides basic health provision for the poor, and Medicare, which provides healthcare for those over 65. The president, who set out his proposals in a speech at George Washington University in DC, blamed Bush for the deficit. He said it has been known for decades that the baby boomers reaching retirement age would put a strain on health and social security at this time. Bill Clinton had left a balanced budget and the burgeoning deficit had been a consequence of the Bush era, Obama said.
SALIM JUNIOR ARRIVES IN LONDON FOR A UK PERFORMANCES
A popular Kenyan Artist Salim Junior arrived in London on Thursday morning 14th April, 2011 for a one month performances in UK. The first show kicks off in Bristol before visiting other UK cities - See the programme below. He is well known for his solos especially the popular mugithi. Paul Mwangi Salim is the first born in a family of eight. Born to Joe Salim Mwangi and Eunice Wangari Salim. He was born in Subukia, Nakuru district 35 years ago. He went to Subukia primary school and Subukia secondary school. He started his career in 1992 in a Nakuru club and then later joined Subukia success band led by the late Sammy Muraya Waire then Qeenja less less band led by the ever green Queen Jane. Later he started my solo career late 1997 in a club along Thika road call heritage village and it was a success. Ever since he has been a solo guitarist cum vocalist dong all kind of Oldies. (the songs that were hits before his time) under the name of Mugithi both secular and gospel). He is a family man with two daughters and a God fearing man. Special thanks to his parents for their support not forgetting his fans in Kenya and Europe, his manager. Mexican Restaurant Uses iPads as Menus
iPads at Temazcal Cantina feature rich photography, detailed information about menu items and sophisticated security. Temazcal Cantina's Roasted Fish
MEDICAL APPEAL TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN Dear Sir/Madam, Am Mr Francis Karanja from Kenya, Mercy is my first born but am a father of three children. Mercy was born with a complex Heart Congenital disease-TOF/PA. She was diagnosed at the age of 3years.now she is 7 years old. Due to her situation of being sick on and off, She dropped out of school. Mercy is requires to undergo an open heart surgery at BRI children’s hospital(Bristol U.K) This surgery cannot be done locally. The cost of surgery is KSh 1,500,000(one million five hundred shillings)i appeal to the well-wishers to assist mercy to get treatment ,the Doctors here in (Kenya)has recommended mercy to under go a Heart Surgery abroad, as the father of Mercy I cannot afford to pay her hospital bill, I am appeal for funds to assist my child to be facilitated for a heart surgery. please! Save this innocent child's life, through a heart surgery as the Doctor here recommended. I have attached Mercy's medical reports, fill free to go them through. Should you requires further information, please do not hesitate to contact me at any time. You may call me on this cell phone no below.+254727-789-547,e-mail wwamke@yahoo.com or you may contact Esther ( mama Kathryn) of Bristol UK +447780331937,e-mail hadasa2009@live. The account holder is Mercy Nyambura Wainaina Mediccal Fund Your assistance towards her surgery will be highly appreciated. May i thank you in advance. Regards Francis .W. Karanja +254-727789547 - wwamke@yahoo.com Cancer Nutrition Guidelines. This Cancer nutrition plan is based on scientifically proven ways to reduce your risk of cancer. It can also be used as a holistic food and lifestyle guide along side conventional cancer treatments or other chosen forms of cancer therapy such as herbs. Please do consult your doctor before making any suggested dietary changes or dietary supplements. Foods You Should Eat. • Green tea has compounds called polyphenols (antioxidants) have been associated with a reduced risk of several cancers. • Eat garlic-it has been found to lower the risk of oesophageal, bowel and stomach cancers. It has the ability to reduce the development of carcinogenic compounds in the body. • Drink a lot of water to keep cells cleansed and hydrated. • Eat vegetables and fruit in abundance as they are rich in vitamin C and phytonutrients and reduce the risk of many cancers. • Eat freshly pressed fruit and vegetable juices as they are concentrated in anti-cancer photochemical and help to boost the immune system. • Eat raw almond seeds- they contain anti-cancer properties. • Eat foods rich in phyto-oestrogen-rich foods e.g. Fennel, wheat germ, alfalfa, apples, flaxseed, oats, lentils, barley and chickweed. These foods have a mild oestrogenic effect which appears to be protective against some cancers such as colon cancer. • Eat-high fibre foods such as whole grains, millets, brown rice, whole meal bread etc. • Eat Beta-carotene rich foods such as spinach, kale, carrots and sweet potatoes. Beta-carotene is an antioxidant and immune booster. • Eat cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, Brussels sprouts, water grass, cauliflower, turnips broccoli, kale and many others which contain several anti-cancer compounds such as indole-3-carbininol, sulphoraphane and glucaric acid. • Eat tomatoes- they contain carotenoid antioxidant called lycopene that has been found to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells and may help protect against cancers of the breast, prostate bowel and other cancers. • Eat oily fish- it is a good source of cancer-protective omega-3 fats. • Going Vegan is a good option to consider as studies have shown that vegetarians are less likely to develop cancer. Foods you should Avoid. • Avoid black tea and coffee and take herbal teas such as fennel, ginger, peppermint, and nettle. • Avoid alcohol as it is of no nutritional value and has a negative impact on the liver. • Avoid processed foods, they only increase body toxins. • Avoid a diet saturated in fats. • Avoid red and processed meats, they are high in saturated fats, and contain toxins. • Avoid sugar and foods that contain sugar, they lack nutrients and deplete the body of essential vitamins and minerals. • Avoid smoking as well as passive smoke.
The Kenyan top athletes have arrived in UK. During the media conference, African Acts media team caught up with Edna Kiplagat and Mary Keitany, both looking vibrant and ready for the win! come and support.
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