Iko Nini Bwana Seed?

WHAT UK NEWSPAPERS SAY - IKO NINI BWANA SEED ARCHIVE

Martyns & Rose Solicitors - CAPITALfm RADIO- KAMEME RADIO IS BACK AGAIN

THE KINGDOM RADIO              

THE SHORTEST WOMAN IN THE WORLD

Guinness World Records adjudicator Rob Molloy and Dr Manoj Pahukar of Wockhardt hospital measure Jyoti Amge at a press conference in Nagpur, India. The 18-year-old was declared the shortest woman in the world, measuring 62.8 centimetres (24.7 inches) by the Guinness World Records.

A John Lewis photo of Christmas pudding bin bags which are selling at a rate of one pack every 15 minutes

AfroParties Chrismas Party Sat 24th Dec @ Biscot Luton

The best party of the year, put together to kick off your Christmas celebration.

AfroParties brings together the best of Afro jamz with the top African Djz. On the decks Tony Bro, Dj Double T & Guest Djz

Book your X Mas parties with us, whether is a Corporate, Family, College/Uni Christmas Party on the day, with no added cost. Food & drinks served at affordable prices. Table bookings can be made by calling 07405373920/07916273050.

  Bring people & Culture together under one roof, feel the LOVE.

Special discount on ladies with a group of 5.

Dress Code: Dress to impress, No hats, No Sneakers. No Search, No Entry.

Doors open from 10pm - 5am (last entry 3am).

A woman wrapped up against the cold and with ice on her eyebrows and eyelashes is seen in Hulunbeier, Inner Mongolia, China

Diaspora Will Only Vote For The President

Kenyans in the diaspora will only be allowed to vote for presidential candidates in 2012, IEBC chairman Ahmed Issack has announced. They will not be able to vote for MPs, senators, or governors. However voters in Kenya will be able to pick six candidates in the first election under the new constitution. They will vote for president, MP, governor, senator, women representative and county representative. Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission chairman Issack was talking at Brooklyn town hall in Minnesota yesterday. The IEBC is currently on a week-long tour of the United States to share views with the diaspora on registration and voting. At a later stage diaspora voters will vote in referendums. If that is successful, they will then be allowed to participate in parliamentary and senate elections.

Issack said embassies and consulates will act as polling stations while ambassadors and their deputies will be hired as returning and presiding officers for the independent commission. Ambassadors are arbitrarily appointed by the executive and many are ex-politicians who have been of immense help to the current system. Some analysts question how independent they would be as returning officers. Article 83 of the constitution sets only three conditions for Kenyans to register as voters. They must be adult citizens, ofsound mind and have no conviction for an election offense in the preceding five years. The article says administrative arrangements for registration of voters and the conduct of elections shall not deny an eligible citizen the right to vote or stand for election. Article 82 however says, “Parliament shall enact legislation to provide for the progressive registration of citizens residing outside Kenya, and the progressive realization of their right to vote.” Issack urged all Kenyans living abroad to register with their embassies. He assured the meeting that their information will be kept confidential. “We don’t care if you are an illegal immigrant here. We know some of you came here as students and are doing all manner of things now. All that we are saying is that if you have a passport or and ID, then register with our embassies so that you can vote," he said.

Many Kenyans abroad cannot home because their visas have expired, particularly those in the USA. It is estimated more than 3 million Kenyans abroad remit close to Sh100bn annually to the Kenyan economy. Issack said the ongoing reforms in the judiciary and police are a sign that the IEBC will deliver free and fair elections. He vowed that Kenya will no longer be used as an example of a country that holds poor elections. The IEBC acting CEO James Oswago told the packed hall that Kenya's proposal was inexpensive unlike India which requires its citizens to return home to vote. Most of those at the meeting said they would prefer to have polling stations in strategic locations across the USA instead of travelling to Washington DC or New York to vote. The IEBC believes it will be a challenge to complete voter registration in time because constituency boundaries are still being delimited. The IEBC has so far registered 12.4 million voters but is targeting 8 million more. “It means that some voters will have to be transferred to the polling stations of their choices when the exercise is over. Yet waiting for the boundaries to be determined first before embarking on voter registration, could mean delaying thepublishing of the voter register and subsequently elections,” Issack said. All voter registration must come to an end 90 days before elections. Voters will be given 90 days to inspect the register and confirm their details. So voter registration must be completed six months before the elections. – The Star.

ROCKET PUB ON WARWICK ROAD, COVENTRY, CV3 6AN

CORDIALLY INVITES ALL

TO  A CHRISTMAS EVE'S (24TH DEC. 2011) AND NEW YEAR'S EVE (31ST DEC. 2011) PARTIES.

COME ROCK AND SHAKE YOUR BONES (VUNJA MIFUPA UNGALI

UKIWA HAI)  FROM 9PM UNTIL MORNING -(6.00AM)

DJ SAM FROM LUTON  AND OTHERS WILL BE ENTERTAINING  ON THE NIGHT WITH BEATS FROM  AFRO JAMZ, R&B,  SOUL, REGGAE, OLD SCHOOL PLUS OFCOURSE ZILIZOPENDWA , ETC

A CHOICE OF EITHER FREE   GLASS OF WINE OR SAMOSAS WILL BE  GIVEN  ON THE NIGHT TO  THE LADIES IN A GROUP OF SIX OR MORE.

FREE ENTRY !!! PLUS TIGHT SECURITY AT THE DOOR ON THE NIGHT

DRESS CODE: SMART  DECENT OUTFIT  PREFERABLY WITH  A TOUCH  OF CHRISTMAS SPIRIT !!!

DONT MISS THE FUN OR WAIT TO BE TOLD BUT COME SEE FOR YOURSELF.

JE, HUU NI UNGWANA?:  Mwanaume mzima kukunyua pombe mapaka anakonjoa kwa kitanda?

UK facing icy weekend temperatures

Motorists are facing treacherous conditions with ice warnings in place for the whole country until Monday. There will be no let-up in Britain's cold snap as sub-zero temperatures continue throughout the weekend. The Met Office issued warnings of ice which are due to stay in place until 10am on Monday, Saturday morning is due to be cold and frosty and, in places, an icy start, according to forecasters. Some areas will have scattered rain, sleet and snow showers, and there may be some repeats of winter wonderland scenes many parts of the country saw on Friday.

Northern Ireland, Wales and the South East woke up to the white stuff on Friday as heavy rain brought by a low pressure system turned to sleet or snow. There was 6cm of snow recorded in Glasgow, 2cm in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, and 4cm in parts of Northern Ireland. Lower-than-average temperatures will continue and the mercury is likely to drop to minus 1C in the south of England and Wales, minus 2C in Yorkshire, minus 4C in the Borders and minus 6C in Scotland over the weekend, said Clare Allen, forecaster for MeteoGroup, the weather division of the Press Association. "We've been experiencing snow mainly over higher ground, in Wales, Scotland, the Pennines, the Lake District, but it's wet and sleety snow so is not settling," she said. "The rest of the country is expected to remain very cold with widespread frosts and everywhere below zero, apart from the South West. There will be some more wintry showers, mainly in the north and west, with hail, sleet and snow expected in Scotland and northern England."

Motorists have been urged to take extra care on the roads - on Friday Cumbria Police said they were called to a number of incidents on the A595 at Moota where motorists slid off the road. The AA also warned drivers to make sure they are prepared for the unsettled weather. The Highways Agency said it is well prepared for the cold weather, with a fleet of 500 state-of-the-art winter vehicles on stand-by and enough salt to deal with severe conditions. The recent cold weather led Ladbrokes to slash the odds of a white Christmas to a 3/1 chance that London will have snow on December 25. Edinburgh and Glasgow saw their odds cut to 9/4.

W e l c o m e

to

Good quality first-class fully furnished temporary accommodation with optional services at affordable, realistic rates in Kenya...for more

click here

Hard-up students turn sex workers

Hard-up students in UK are increasingly turning to the SEX industry to provide work as living costs, tuition fees and youth unemployment soar, it was claimed today. They are also getting round the financial squeeze by subjecting themselves to medical experiments and gambling. Many universities have been allowed to treble tuition fees from next year under government reforms. But the move is making it even more difficult for frustrated students to make ends meet while axing the education maintenance allowance (EMA) for 16 to 19-year-olds has also piled on the pressure. A helpline called the English Collective of Prostitutes reported a spike in students calling in when the reforms were announced. Spokeswoman Sarah Walker said: "We have seen an increase year-on-year since the time that the student grants system was axed. "There has definitely been a spike again since tuition fee changes were brought in. "It is anecdotal evidence but we have definitely seen an increase."

Package

The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills insisted the financial package available to students including loans was "generous". And a Department for Education spokesman said: "It is down to schools and colleges themselves to award bursaries to young people who need the most help. "If students are really struggling financially, they need to speak directly to their tutors." Estelle Hart, national women's officer for the National Union of Students (NUS) which made the claims, was seriously concerned. She said: "Students are taking more dangerous measures. "In an economic climate where there are very few jobs, where student support has been massively cut, people are taking more work in the informal economy, such as sex work. "It's all dangerous unregulated work, simply so people can stay in education."

DO YOU KNOW?: The fraud at  Ardhi House lands office was so serious that the system had created a full  fraud department starting from the top bosses down to the messenger.   There was a representative in every department and the receipt was being issues by only one person.  Many other institutions are operating the same and it is only time which will tell. Coming soon the banks which  are also worst hit by fraud with some bankers assisting in providing the information outside.  Unconfirmed reports says some people in the banks are making as much as KShs. 1 million a day by providing the information.

Athi River next in State-approved evictions

Thousands of people who have settled on illegally allocated land in Athi River will be evicted. A report by a taskforce formed to establish irregular appropriation of public land in Athi River also identified about a dozen fraudsters behind the illegal business. "Those who have settled on illegally acquired or irregularly allocated land must be evicted and land reverted to the lawful owners, who may need to be assisted to access their land," read part of the report. National Housing Corporation, National Social Security Fund, Numerical Machinery Complex, East African Portland Cement Company Limited, Kenya Meat Commission and the Meat Training Institute own the land in question. "There has also been serious encroachment and illegal occupation of church-owned land, land owned by cooperative societies and individuals by persons operating fraudulently in cartels in the area," read part of the report. Chairman of the taskforce, Mr John Abduba, revealed there are no squatters in Athi River but there are about 10,000 slum dwellers staying on the affected land. He said irregular land appropriation and acquisition had seen proliferation of fake land ownership documents, which were then used to dupe unsuspecting land buyers into purchasing non-existing land.

Marauding gangs

The report, with a number of recommendations, was handed over to Internal Security Minister George Saitoti and his PS Francis Kimemia, who promised to act. Abduba said his team established there were genuine landowners who could not access their land because of marauding gangs in the area. "To stop this impunity by unscrupulous land peddlers, the Government must urgently establish mechanisms for investigation, arrest and prosecution of these perpetrators," said Abduba. He said the gangs had been subdividing and selling the land to alleged landless locals and IDPs. The team recommended that all land be protected through proper land administration, as established by law, irrespective of ownership. Saitoti said the taskforce was prompted by complaints over illegal land ownership in the area, which had security implications. He directed Police Commissioner Mathew Iteere to investigate and arrest those behind the transactions. – The Standard.

LONDON NEW BUSES

Mayor Of London Boris Johnson Mark The Arrival Of The First New Bus For London. London Mayor Boris Johnson waves from a new prototype red double decker bus in Trafalgar Square on December 16, 2011 in London, England. The new bus design mimics some of the features of the iconic red London Routemaster bus and is scheduled to come into service in 2012. The original Routemaster was introduced in 1956 and a number of them are still in use on heritage routes in London, following their withdrawal from regular routes in 2005.

David Cameron says the UK is a Christian country

David Cameron has said the UK is a Christian country "and we should not be afraid to say so". In a speech in Oxford on the 400th anniversary of the King James Bible, the prime minister called for a revival of traditional Christian values to counter Britain's "moral collapse". He said "live and let live" had too often become "do what you please". The PM said it was wrong to suggest that standing up for Christianity was "somehow doing down other faiths". Describing himself as a "committed" but only "vaguely practising" Christian, the PM admitted he was "full of doubts" about big theological issues.

Punks at concert in Indonesia punished under strict Islamic law

Youths stand in the pond located at a police school, after having their heads shaved and on right Members of the punk community were punished by authorities (Picture: EPA/HOTLI SIMANJUNTAK)

Indonesians living a punk lifestyle have been punished and 'cleansed' by police acting upon Islamic law at a concert. Cowering before police before their heads are shaved, you would be forgiven for thinking these are hardened criminals.  But they were among 65 punk rock fans arrested by baton-wielding police at a concert in Indonesia. They had attended an event in the northern province of Aceh, the only region of the predominantly Muslim nation of 240million to impose strict Islamic law. Tearful ‘offenders’ had their spiky mohawks buzzed off and body piercings stripped away.

Police shave the heads of detained youths at a school in Aceh Besar  and on right an Indonesian police woman cuts the hair of a detained punk at a police school in Aceh Besar in Aceh province (Picture: AFP/Getty)

Why? Why, my hair?’ said Fauzan, a 20-year-old punk rock fan. Dog-collar necklaces and chains were also taken from the youths, who were thrown into water for ‘spiritual’ cleansing, police chief Iskandar Hasan said yesterday. 
After replacing their ‘disgusting’ clothes, he handed each a toothbrush and barked ‘use it’.  The youths’ ‘moral rehabilitation’ involves ten days of military-style discipline and religious classes before they are sent home, Mr Hasan added.  Youths have complained about police harassment before but it is not clear why Saturday’s concert was targeted. 

Russian ship hits iceberg off Antarctica

Several crew from a stricken Russian fishing boat have taken to life-rafts in icy Antarctic waters Friday as rescuers said it could take five days to reach them. The Sparta began taking on water after hitting an iceberg and sent out a distress call from near the Antarctic ice shelf about 2,000 nautical miles (3,700 kilometres) southeast of New Zealand. The Russian-flagged fishing boat with a crew of 32 -- 15 Russians, 16 Indonesians and a Ukrainian -- is on a 13-degree list after being holed 1.5 metres (five feet) below the water line. Officers have remained on board and are pumping water from the hold while some crew have taken to life-rafts "as a precautionary measure", the New Zealand Rescue Coordination Centre (RCCNZ) said. The RCCNZ has called for help from vessels working in the Southern Ocean but heavy sea ice made their movement difficult and they are "not expected to reach the area for four to five days", search coordinator Ramon Davis said. The New Zealand vessel San Aspiring is 470 nautical miles away and should reach the Sparta by Tuesday.

The Sparta's sister ship, Chiyo Maru No 3, is only 290 nautical miles away but has no capacity to cut or break through sea ice, and another vessel is only 19 nautical miles away but is hemmed in by ice and unable to proceed. There were no helicopters in the area that could undertake a rescue but a transport plane from the Antarctic Research Centre at McMurdo Station was able to fly over the Sparta and make contact as well as assess the ice conditions. "So far, the crew has managed to keep up with the ingress of water. They have also attached a tarpaulin on the outside of the hull which is helping slow the rate of water into the hold," Davis said. "They have asked us to supply them with more pumps to allow them to increase the pumping speed, and also provide backup to the pumps they are already working with." Davis said RCCNZ was investigating options for delivering pumps to the stricken vessel. "If they can get all the water out of the hold that might lighten the ship enough for the hole to be above the water line, and allow the crew to repair the damage.

Bitter chill sweeps across Britain

A bitter chill has swept across Britain, with snow and heavy downpours hitting most of the country. Northern Ireland, Wales and the south east of England woke up to snow as heavy rain brought by a low pressure system turned to sleet or snow.  The north and parts of Scotland also saw snowfall overnight, with 6cm recorded in Glasgow. High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, saw 2cm of snow, and 4cm fell in parts of Northern Ireland. Billy Payne, forecaster for MeteoGroup, the weather division of the Press Association, said: "We have had an area of low pressure just south of the UK and as it has moved away the rain associated with it has turned into sleet and snow, mostly across Wales and southern England. "Across the UK there is a fair bit of wintry showers and snow. Quite a lot of the country has seen either sleet or snow." Mr Payne said temperatures are set to be between 2C and 5C for most of the day. He added: "It is very cold, London is not expected to rise much above 5C. Some parts of the Scottish Isles will not get above 0C." However, it is not predicted to last as the snow and the downpours are expected to move away to the east. The Met Office has issued severe weather warnings for large patches of the country and the Environment Agency put 33 flood alerts in place, including in the Midlands, the North West, the South East and the South West. There were minor delays on the A27 in Chichester due to flooding, according to the Highways Agency website. Drivers are being warned to take care on the roads as the weather is likely to bring hazardous driving conditions. Highways Agency spokesman Jason Glasson said: "I advise drivers to plan ahead before setting out. Check the Met Office weather forecast and road conditions and allow extra time if travel conditions are poor, or delay the journey if conditions are really severe."

APPLE RAIN IN COVENTRY, UK

Downpour: Dave Meakins holds one of the apples which fell from the sky in Coundon, Coventry, on Monday night

After a series of storm warnings, drivers in the evening rush hour were prepared for almost anything. Except, that is, for it to start raining apples. Scores of them battered car roofs and windscreens before landing in the road at a busy junction in Coundon, Coventry. The deluge of fruit brought traffic to a standstill at 6.45pm on Monday 12th December, 2011. A 20-yard stretch of the B4098 was left strewn with green slush after the incident.  One motorist, who was travelling with her husband, said: ‘The apples fell out of nowhere. They were small and green and hit the bonnet hard. Everyone had to stop their cars suddenly.’ The phenomenon is believed to be down to a mini tornado which touched down elsewhere, sucking apples from the ground or from trees.   Such a powerful vacuum could have travelled for many miles before the tornado’s energy dissipated, depositing the fruit over Coventry.  Another theory is that the apples could have fallen from the hold of a plane. Brian Meakins, 63, was stunned when he opened his front door and found his garden full of smashed apples.

The retired forklift truck driver said: ‘At first I assumed kids must have thrown them because we do get the occasional egg and apple thrown but there’s way too many for that.’  Jim Dale, senior meteorologist from British Weather Services, said the event was probably caused by ‘returning polar maritime air’. ‘Essentially these events are caused when a vortex of air, kind of like a mini tornado, lifts things off the ground rising up into the atmosphere until the air around it causes them to fall to earth again. ‘Returning polar maritime air is such an unstable condition and it basically means air returning from the polar regions which is very unstable. ‘We’ve all heard of fish and frogs falling from the sky and apples is certainly unusual because they have some weight to them but it is not out of the realms of possibility.’ – Daily Mail, London.

 IT'S RAINING FISH, MAGGOTS AND FROGS: OTHER STORM ODDITIES

On October 5, 1967, thousands of maggots fell like rain over Acapulco, Mexico, after a heavy storm.

In 1996 dozens of frogs were reported to be falling from the sky in Llanddewi, Wales and again in Croydon, London in 1998.

More recently, on August 18, 2004, fish fell from the sky on to the village of Knighton, Powys.

In August 2007 fish also rained down in the streets of Great Yarmouth, Norfolk after a mini-tornado at sea.

The explanation is down to a typical spell of British summer weather, where a few hot days are often followed by a thunderstorm.

Vigorous updrafts on a hot day may have sucked the frogs, fish and other small creatures into a developing thunder cloud, only to deposit them again in heavy rain downwind.

WORD OF TODAY

2 Corinthians 4:16

Work on the inner you

I take this opportunity to invite you in our pray Conference Prayer every Morning from 6-7a.m. call this local number in UK Tel  02030042084 pin No.67299# and you will be able to join us for prayers. It is a free number with landline in UK.

Our Guest Singer today Is Charles K King'ori from Kenya - CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

CAUGHT UNDER LONDON

Caught under London after Jamhuri Day celebrations last week were from left to right Mr. Osieyo and his wife Mrs. Osieyo (far right) from Bellingham, South London posing with Mr. Sang (hat) and Councillor Elizabeth Kangethe of London. They were caught hundreds of feet under the city of London going to pick up the underground train  - Piccadilly Line at Hyde Park Corner. CLICK HERE FOR MORE PHOTOS

Eurozone faces winter recession, Ernst & Young says

The eurozone is facing a "bleak" winter, audit firm Ernst & Young says. A "mild" recession is likely in the first half of next year, leading to economic growth of just 0.1% for the whole of 2012, it predicted. Ernst & Young also said unemployment in the eurozone was unlikely to fall below 10% until 2015.  Meanwhile, Greece - Europe's most indebted country - said that it was on course to have its worst recession ever in 2011. Greek Prime Minister Lucas Papademos warned on Wednesday that his country's contraction would be greater than the 5.5% currently forecast. Greece's economy shrank by 4.5% in 2010, when it received its first bailout from the EU and International Monetary Fund.

'Uncertainties'

Last week, 26 of the 27 members of the European Union backed new fiscal rules to keep budgets in line, with only the UK abstaining.  But many fear that the budget pact will still not be enough to prevent more countries from seeking a bailout. On Wednesday, the euro fell below $1.30 for the first time since January.  "The reforms agreed at the summit on 9 December were a step in the right direction and the response seems to have been mildly positive," according to Ernst & Young. "Yet investors remain very concerned about the commitment and ability of eurozone governments to implement reforms quickly." The audit firm predicts that eurozone growth will recover to between 1.5% and 2% in 2013.  "The uncertainties hanging over the Eurozone can only continue to dampen the enthusiasm for European companies to make long term investment and recruitment decisions," said Mark Otty, Ernst & Young's managing partner for Europe, Middle East, India and Africa.

Shilling rallies hard against dollar to hit 85 mark, an 8-month high

The shilling on Thursday rallied against the dollar to hit the Sh85-mark, registering an 8-month high. The last time the shilling traded at this level was in March this year.  This is a 20.56 per cent recovery from the historic low of Sh107 on October 11.  By close of trading Thursday, commercial banks quoted the shilling at Sh85.00/30, compared with Wednesday’s performance of Sh87.20/40 to the dollar. “We are now looking at Sh84 levels next week,” African Banking Corporation (ABC) senior forex dealer Julius Kiriinya said. Forex dealers attribute this bullish trend to the decision by Central Bank to mop up excess liquidity in the market through repurchase agreements, continued inflows from tourism, tea, and horticultural sectors, as well as the International Monetary Fund’s approval of the Extended Credit Facility for Kenya on Monday this week.  “Slow demand for the dollar and the tight liquidity is forcing traders to sell off their dollar reserves to fund their short shilling positions,” added Mr Kiriinya.  – Daily Nation.

French banker says UK should be downgraded first

The chairman of the French central bank, Christian Noyer, has said ratings agencies should downgrade the UK before France because its economy is weaker. US agency Standard and Poor's recently warned France its rating could suffer over the eurozone crisis and downturn. "The downgrade does not appear to me to be justified when considering economic fundamentals," Mr Noyer said. The British Government responded by saying the UK had a credible plan for dealing with its deficit. Speaking to French regional newspaper Le Telegramme, Mr Noyer said any downgrade should start with Britain "which has more deficits, as much debt, more inflation, less growth than us and where credit is slumping".  Britain was not identified as a credit risk by Standard and Poor's in its report earlier this month. The spokesman for UK Prime Minister David Cameron said: "Credit ratings are a matter for credit rating agencies but we've put in place a credible deficit reduction plan and you can see that credibility in the UK's bond yields." There is a sense of frustration across the eurozone that last week's summit in Brussels seems to have done little to calm the financial markets, the BBC's Chris Morris reports.

Matemu linked to Sh2.4 billion scam

The man President Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga nominated to lead the war against corruption was sensationally linked to the vice in an acrimonious debate in Parliament on Thursday 15TH December, 2011. The chairman of Public Accounts Committee, Dr Boni Khalwale, tabled documents claiming that Mr Mumo Matemu had failed to collect Sh2.4 billion in tax arrears from a company while at the Kenya Revenue Authority. “This matter has been brought to me by a patriotic Kenyan who knows the importance of Parliament… this information touches on a man whom we want to sit on this important commission,” said Dr Khalwale.  Mr Matemu has been nominated as chairman of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, with Ms Irene Keino and Prof Jane Onsongo as his deputies. – Daily Nation.

London 2012: 13,500 troops to provide Olympic security

Up to 13,500 military personnel will help to provide security at the London 2012 Olympic Games, the Ministry of Defence has announced. Security would be police-led but the military would make a "significant contribution", the MoD said. Some 5,000 troops will support the police, up to 7,500 will provide venue security and 1,000 will provide logistical support. Last week, ministers revised the Games security budget from £282m to £553m.  In addition to the 13,500 figure, there will be a 1,000-strong unarmed contingency force ready for deployment in the event of an "Olympics-related civil emergency".

IMF: Global outlook is 'gloomy'

IMF head Christine Lagarde has said the world economic outlook is "gloomy" and no country is immune from rising risks. She said all nations, starting with Europe, needed to head off a crisis with risks of a global depression. "There is no economy in the world immune from the crisis that we not only see unfolding but escalating," she said. "It is going to be hopefully resolved by all countries, all regions actually taking action." Meanwhile, ratings agency Standard and Poor's downgraded 10 Spanish banks by applying new ratings criteria.  And France's official statistics agency, INSEE, said that it expects the Europe's second-largest economy to fall into recession in the final three months of this year and the first quarter of 2012. France, Spain and Italy have been facing rising borrowing costs. Many investors fear one will be the next eurozone member to need a bailout.

'Require efforts'

Speaking at the US State Department in Washington, she said global economic leaders now needed to take a rounded approach towards addressing monetary weaknesses, such as those underscored by the current eurozone debt crisis.  "It is going to require efforts, it is going to require adjustment, and clearly it is going to have to start from the core of the crisis at the moment, which is obviously the European countries and in particular the countries of the eurozone." Ms Lagarde mentioned economic bright spots in Asia and Latin America, which she said had taken, with IMF help, steps during crises in the 1980s and 1990s to address weaknesses in their banking systems and their financial frameworks. "All those challenges that they faced in the days of the Asian crisis, of the Latin American crisis, have now served them well," Ms Lagarde said. On Thursday, a closely-watched survey suggested the downturn in the 17 economies that share the euro had eased slightly in December. The composite survey of thousands of firms by Markit showed a continued contraction - but at a slower rate than in November.

PRESIDENT KIBAKI IN KAMPALA FOR LEADERS MEETING

President Mwai Kibaki with other Heads of State during the 5th Ordinary Summit of the International Confrence of the Great Lakes Region in Kampala Uganda.

Kampala, Thursday 15th December, 2011. We are keen to stamp out Sexual and Gender based Violence- President Kibaki.  President Mwai Kibaki has today reaffirmed Kenya’s support and commitment towards the eradication of sexual and gender based violence.  President Kibaki asserted that Kenya equally upholds international conventions that safeguard the rights of women and other disadvantaged members of the society.  The President particularly assured that the country was committed to the Convention on the Elimination of All forms of Discrimination against Women (COVAW).  Speaking during the International Conference on The Great Lakes Region Head of States Session on Sexual and Gender Based Violence at the Speke Resort, Munyonyo, Kampala, the President said that Kenya’s commitment to the protection of the rights of its citizens was unwavering, including the right to live without fear of any form of violation.  “Our new Constitution, which we promulgated in August 2010, emphasizes the protection of women, men and children from all forms of violence, including harmful traditional practices, and provides for freedom from any form of violence”, he said.

To stamp out sexual and gender-based violence, the Head of State enumerated important pieces of legislation that the country had put in place to safeguard violation of fundamental human rights such as the Sexual Offences Act, the Counter Trafficking in Persons Act as well as the Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act.  Other legislations awaiting enactment include the Marriage Bill, the Matrimonial and Family Protection Bill, Domestic Violence Bill and the Equal Opportunity Bill.  “Once the legislative and institutional framework is complete, Kenya’s capacity to reduce sexual gender-based violence will be greatly boosted”, said President Kibaki.  The Head of State said the Government had taken measures to create awareness among wananchi as well as building capacity in the medical, security and judicial personnel to enable them deal effectively and speedily with cases of sexual and gender based violence at all levels.

“My Government has also intensified advocacy on sexual gender-based violence and undertaken countrywide civic awareness to popularise existing laws and protection measures. We are currently engaged in capacity building for medical, security and judicial personnel in dealing with sexual gender-based violence cases at the County level”, he said.  The President noted that a pilot programme for One-Stop Centres to assist victims and survivors of sexual gender-based violence has been launched and plans are underway to roll out the project throughout the country.  “These Centres will go a long way in ensuring that the welfare of victims is effectively addressed by medical, psycho-social and judicial service providers”, he said.  President Kibaki hailed the contribution of the First Ladies and the Ministers for Gender of the countries of the Great Lakes Region in combating sexual and gender-based violence in the region.

He also thanked development partners in the region for their dedication to the fight against sexual and gender based violence noting that through such synergy effective measures to eliminate sexual and gender-based violence could be put in place.  President Kibaki added that Kenya is also developing a framework on the implementation of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on the inclusion of gender perspectives in humanitarian planning in post-conflict peace-building and governance, as well as Resolution 1820 on the protection of women against sexual violence.  “We look forward to the full implementation of these instruments so that we can effectively combat sexual gender-based violence and achieve our common objective of creating a haven of peace, security and development in the entire Great Lakes Region”, he said.  The theme of the Special Session was “United to Prevent, End Impunity and Provide Support to the Victims of Sexual Gender-Based Violence in the Great Lakes Region”.  The session was also attended by Presidents Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, Michael Sata of Zambia, Chairman of the African Union Jean Ping, representatives of the United Nations and Governments of the Great Lakes region.

SPEECH DELIVERED BY HON. OTIENO KAJWANG’ – MINISTER OF STATE FOR IMMIGRATION AND

\REGISTRATION OF PERSONS DURING THE OFFICIAL COMMISSIONING OF THE NATIONAL IDENTITY

CARD ISSUANCE FOR THE DIASPORA IN LONDON ON 5TH DECEMBER 2011

I am gratified to be with you one more time.

When I was last here in June last year, I was commissioning a Passport Issuance System to apply for and obtain your passports from London.

 I have received feed-back that this intervention has reduced the waiting time for renewal of passports considerably.

Today, I have come to commission an Identity Card Registration System. This will allow young Kenyans who have turned eighteen while abroad to apply for and obtain their National Identity Cards without having to travel to Kenya to make the application.

This initiative is an answer to the new Constitutional obligation on the government to provide travel documents and identity cards to Kenyans as a right rather than a privilege.

The Constitutional provision on dual citizenship now makes it possible for you to acquire any other citizenship without relinquishing your Kenyan citizenship. You may use your passports (Kenyan/ Foreign) interchangeably.

Those who were forced to revoke their citizenship before acquiring new citizenships can now re-gain Kenyan citizenship on application.

Children who were born abroad by Kenyan daughters who were not considered Kenyan citizens are now Kenyans.

The children now acquire both the citizenship of their mothers and fathers at birth.

The question of participating on the elections of your President and other representatives is now settled. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission will soon be making arrangement to register Kenyans as voters everywhere.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

For two days in Geneva, Switzerland I have been participating in a conference referred to as The Global Forum on Migration and Development.  

Governments over the world recognize the valuable contribution the Diaspora community make in the development of their home economies.

We feel you at home when we receive critical remittances that make a difference in the life of numerous families. Our government equally feels your contribution to our foreign reserves. The Diaspora community remittances stands at No.3  as the highest contributor to our Foreign Exchange earnings. ($ 1 billion).

You participate in our economy in the property market and the Sovereign Bond Issues.

You are a valuable player in our economy and a trusted partner in development.

I’m sure you are aware of the opportunities that exist for investment in Property Development, Tourism, Education and Agriculture, Home development, Conference Tourism, Higher Education and Irrigation.

You can each become our Ambassadors in discussing these opportunities with possible investors. Give them confidence that Kenya is a safe and profitable investment destination. We seek to increase the Direct Foreign Investment (DFI).

We are a super-power in sports especially athletics. There is tremendous potential in development of young talent with significant benefit to the athletes and the country. You may wish to persuade investors in this rich market.

Fellow Kenyans;

My reasons for coming over were several fold.

• To provide you with a National Identity Card facility that would open doors for the enjoyment of your fundamental rights as Kenyan citizens.

• To persuade you to think of Kenya among many other countries as an investment destination.

• To recruit you as good ambassadors of Kenya to explain to your networks that Kenya is a safe and a profitable place to set up shop in Trade and Industry.

With those very many remarks Ladies and gentlemen,

 It is now my humble duty to declare the National Identity Card processing facility at the Kenyan Mission officially commissioned.

Thank you and may God bless you.

Cracks Start To Appear In EU Finance Pact

The Czech Republic and Hungary have said they will not sign the new European Union pact unless tax harmonisation plans are dropped. The announcement comes less than one week after the EU summit hailed as bringing unity to all but one of its member nations. In Brussels, 26 of the 27 members of the EU backed new fiscal rules to keep budgets in line, with only the UK abstaining. Neither Hungary nor the Czech Republic uses the euro, and tax harmonisation plans were not explicitly discussed as part of the changes at the summit. Nonetheless Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban and his Czech counterpart Petr Necas said they wanted to take active roles in negotiations, adding they are concerned the pact may take away their independence on tax policy. Mr Necas said: "We support the solutions which result in the stabilisation of the eurozone.

Young mother's death highlights dangers of paracetamol

A young mother has died of liver failure after taking a few extra tablets of paracetamol a day to help her deal with post operative pain. Desiree Philips, 20, was prescribed antibiotics and over-the-counter paracetamol following a routine operation to remove several benign breast lumps.  But nine days after the operation the young mother from LLanelli, South Wales, was admitted to hospital with liver failure, the Daily Mail reported. Although Ms Phillips underwent a liver transplant, she died a week later at Birmingham Queen Elizabeth hospital. Her father, Des Phillips, said he believed his daughter had only taken "a few extra tablets" of paracetamol a day. The sad news highlights the hidden danger of repeatedly taking slightly too much paracetamol, known as a staggered overdose. Only last month, a study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology warned that staggered overdoses can occur when people take a little more paracetamol than they should, usually to relieve a range of common causes of pain such as headache, toothache, abdominal or muscular pain.

A staggered dose of paracetamol is also more difficult for hospital staff to diagnose, compared with someone who has tried to take their own life with a massive overdose of paracetamol, the same study found. People who have deliberately taken an overdose of the painkiller have high levels of the drug in their blood which can be detected with a simple blood test, but this is not the case with a staggered overdose. Under these circumstances someone can have low levels of paracetamol in their blood but be at a high risk of liver failure and death. Study leader Dr Kenneth Simpson, of the University of Edinburgh, said: "They haven't taken the sort of single-moment, one-off massive overdoses taken by people who try to commit suicide, but over time the damage builds up, and the effect can be fatal. "On admission, these staggered overdose patients were more likely to have liver and brain problems, require kidney dialysis or help with breathing and were at a greater risk of dying than people who had t According to the NHS, adults should never exceed the recommended dose for paracetamol which is two (500mg) tablets of paracetamol, every four to six hours, up to four times a day. Paracetamol is also sold in combination with other painkilling drugs and in cold and flu medications. Always consult with your pharmacist or doctor if you are considering using a number of these products, to avoid exceeding the daily recommended dose.

Gathering of Kenyans in London on the 17th of December 2011 @ 4pm

We are now counting down to this great event.  Below are some of the discussions/agenda points for the meeting.

1. Update on UK Immigration law/changes. Are you believing God for makaratasi, case is pending, in the process of applying or appeals, then this is your meeting.  Come and get necessary updates from the solicitors in attendance.  Don't perish for lack of information.

2. Olympic games creates an opportunity for over 20,000 jobs.  Are you looking for employment? Informed business people who are also involved in one way or the other with the process of recruitment will be in attendance to advise you on how to seize this opportunity.  Don't be put off by the job titles on adverts - they possibly are just looking for transferable skills.  Book yourself into the meeting.

3. Mr Abraham Mwaura, Immigration Attache at the Kenya High Commission in London will be available to engage on one to one basis for those with issues relating to their Kenyan status (passports, IDs etc).

4.Update on charity work done so far in steps to raise awareness of the needs/fate of children with learning difficulties/disabilities in Kenya - (especially in the slums and villages).  You will be shocked what these vulnerable people go through.  They need your voice and support.

5.Our very own Artist, Beatrice Muniu will be in attendance with some of the songs from her new album-you cannot afford to miss this.

6. Without fail,we will pray for each other and for our beloved Nation, Kenya.  Come and hear great testimonies of answered prayers from last meetings, and your faith will be built.

6.  Finally and Most important of all - God Himself will be in the Sanctuary, giving us the ever powerful Word needed to face 2012 and the days ahead.  A time to re-focus. 

We aim to start promptly at 4pm and finish at 7pm.

God bless and see you all on Saturday.

Jane Kiguru-Wamae

Shilling hits new high... at 87.20 to the dollar

The shilling on Wednesday closed trading at 87.20/40 to the dollar to hit a six-month high, helped by inflows from the tourism sector, horticulture, increased remittances from Kenyans in the Diaspora and depressed demand for the greenback. The shilling on Wednesday closed trading at 87.20/40 to the dollar to hit a six-month high, helped by inflows from the tourism sector, horticulture, increased remittances from Kenyans in the Diaspora and depressed demand for the greenback. This is the strongest point the shilling has rallied against the dollar since July, recovering its value by 18.69 percentage points from its lowest point of 107 against the dollar on October 11.  Bank of Africa forex dealer Gerishon Kanori indicated that the expected increase in cash reserves ratio to 5.25 per cent from 4.75 per cent, effective Thursday, has also tightened liquidity in the money market and given the shilling a shot in the arm.  Cash reserves ratio is the minimum amount of customers’ savings that a bank must retain by depositing with the Central Bank.  “Central Bank is expected to mop up about Sh7.5 billion from the market when the new CRR rate takes effect,” Mr Kanori said. Another forex dealer at KCB said traders are also trying to trim up their positions because they are confident inflation might come down due to the rains, which are expected to boost the country’s grain reserves. “The tight monetary policy and expected ease in inflationary pressure has also seen people trim up their dollar positions,” KCB forex dealer Benard Omenda said.

Kuchu and Lucy contact in Kenya. Njuguna (Kuchu) 0700209344 and Lucy (Mama Njeri) 0718178752.

Day in pictures: 14 December 2011

An Armed Forces of Malta officer shouts out orders during a military parade to mark Malta's Republic Day in Valletta. Malta, a former British colony, became a republic in 1974, 10 years after gaining independence. On right Members of the Popular Defence Forces ride camels during their 22nd anniversary celebrations in Khartoum, North Sudan.

Kenya Army Officer kills his wife in Kiambu Road – CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

Among those caught at the Jamhuri Day celebrations in London on Friday 9th December, 2011 was from left to right – Pastor Alex Mkapa, HE High Commissioner E. Ngare and Councilor Daniel Munyambu of Basingdon, Essex, UK.  On right Colonel Nderitu the Military Attache at the Kenya High Commission London welcoming Ghana High Commissioner in the UK into the Jamhuri celebrations.

Athi River Task land Force Report Out – CLICK HERE

The stigma of HIV - four places, four people

From India to Kenya, and Tajikistan to Bolivia - the daily difficulties that face people with HIV are often the same no matter what country they live in, and no matter how many thousands of miles they are apart. In Stigma Under the Lens - marking World Aids Day on 1 December - the charity Christian Aid has worked with Magnum Photos, an international co-operative of photographers, to document personal perspectives of the disease. Here, take a glimpse at the lives of four HIV positive people. CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

Thika Superhighway to be completed by March 2012

The Kenya National Highway Authority has confirmed the new 8-lane superhighway from Thika to Nairobi will be completed along its entire length by March, with Thika's first residential development due to open in July to travel times to central Nairobi that will take less time than from Karen. The Bahati Ridge development will complete its first phase of 72 homes, being 55 Townhouses, 9 Villas and 8 Bungalows, in July 2012. "Thika residents working in the Capital will perhaps take a lot shorter to hit Museum Hill than it will take those from Karen, Lang'ata, Mlolongo, Embakasi and Burururu," said Ms. Clara Ouko, the Kenya National Highway Authority, and Communication Officer. Dr. Alphonce Omondo who has been travelling daily from Thika to work in Nairobi reports that travelling times have already fallen sharply. "The traffic jam has already eased. I had been leaving my house at 5am and even at times arrive late, but I now leave at 5.45 am, yet the highway is not yet done," said Dr. Omondo, who works as a pediatric doctor in one of the leading hospitals in Nairobi. Currently, 80 per cent of Lot 1, which starts at Kenyatta Avenue and runs to Muthaiga has been completed by China Wu Yi Company. Sinohydro Corporation's Lot 2, which starts at Muthaiga with an 8-lane dual carriageway to Kenyatta University, is 92per cent complete. Lot 3 running from Kenyatta University to Thika, and being built by Shengli Engineering Construction Company, has 68 per cent of the construction completed.

All works in the highway will be complete come March 2012 said the highways authority, speeding traffic on East Africa's busiest highway, carrying over 70,000 vehicles a day, with flyovers, under-passes, interchanges, pedestrian grade separators, cross drainage systems and modern street lighting.  The completion of the superhighway will save Nairobi drivers an estimated Sh50m a day in fuel consumption, mechanical damage, stress and pollution and the economy more than Sh2bn worth of man-hours annually.  For those keen to take advantage of the reduced travelling times, and extra facilities in and around Thika, including ample IGCSE school places compared with the waiting lists in Nairobi, the opening of the town's first residential gated community represents near perfect timing. "Bahati Ridge homes and the newly accessible Thika now opens an opportunity for a quality of lifestyle at only half the initial investment required to access similar homes and lifestyles in the city's existing suburbs," said Gilbert Kibe, the Managing Director of the Bahati Ridge Development Limited. "It is now certain to emerge as a vibrant dormitory town for the city, with developments such as Bahati Ridge opening up the opportunity for clean air, space, peace and easy acess to top-quality schools, hospitals, shopping malls and leisure facilities," he said. Bahati Ridge is building cottages, villas, townhouses and bungalows in a stunning rural setting just 3kms from Blue Post Hotel, on Gatanga Road, off the new Nairobi-Thika Superhighway.

“Njîtagwo Nyawîra, na gwitû nî Laikipia District, Baba etagwo Lord Carberry na mami witû arî Lady onaniî njîtagwo Lady Nyawîra, baba arî na mîgûnda mîngî gûkîra Lord Delamere!” The white lady with a Kenyan flag was caught explaining to Pastor Jane Njiiri that she is a Kenyan from Laikipia and her father a large piece if land. On right is Kenyan Gospel Singer in UK Judy GG posing with the Toast Master at Inter Continental Hotel,  London during the Jamhuri celebrations last week.

DO YOU KNOW?: 27 officers has been sacked at the Adhi house since the land saga started

Euro hits new 11-month dollar low

The euro has fallen further against other major currencies as fears continue over the eurozone's future. The euro fell below $1.30 for the first time since 12 January. Against the pound, one euro bought 83.85 pence, while the pound was worth 1.19 euros. Last week, 26 of the 27 members of the European Union backed new fiscal rules, with only the UK abstaining. But many fear that the budget pact will still not be enough to prevent more countries from seeking a bailout. European stock markets were in negative territory on Wednesday. London's FTSE 100 and Frankfurt's Dax were both down about 1% by lunchtime, with the Paris Cac 40 index trading 1.76% lower. In other developments, the costs of borrowing for eurozone countries continued to diverge. Italy's government paid an interest rate of 6.47% to borrow 3bn euros for five years at a bond auction, up from 6.3% last month. At the same time, Germany - whose debt is viewed by markets as the safest place within the eurozone to invest - saw its borrowing costs fall further. At an auction of 5bn euros' worth of two-year bonds, the yield was 0.29%, down from 0.39% last month.

MP names five banks said to have had hand in shilling fall

Barclays Bank of Kenya managing director Adan Mohammed (left) and Cooperative Bank managing director Gideon Muriuki before the committee on depreciation of the shilling at County Hall, Nairobi, on December 14, 2011 . Five commercial banks in Kenya were on Wednesday named as among the top players in the industry that manipulated foreign exchange trading leading to the rapid slide of the Kenya shilling against the major currencies.  Mr Shakeel Shabbir (Kisumu Town East) alleged that Barclays Bank of Kenya, Equity Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, Family Bank and the KCB Bank Group were behind the speculative acts in the money market, which led to the rapid dip in the value of the shilling in October this year.  The MP named the banks under parliamentary privilege during public hearings at the Nairobi’s County Hall.  The hearings are conducted by an ad hoc select committee investigating the rapid decline in the value of the shilling.  Senior managers from the Barclays, Cooperative, KCB, Equity, and Housing Finance attended the meeting. He said the banks had cornered the market, in their bid to make “super-normal profits” had gone to the Central Bank, borrowed lots of money and bought US dollars, thus putting pressure on the shilling. Mr Shabbir said a form of insider-trading had taken place, and now the cartels in the banking industry had “made their money and disappeared leaving Kenyans with a lot of loans.” “You’re not the only ones, but you’re among them. You’ve been able to manipulate the Central Bank of Kenya, so, you’re now benefitting from the high interest rates while borrowers are suffering,” Mr Shabbir said. – Daily Nation.

SURFING ON A 67FT WAVE

A surfer has been pictured riding one of the biggest recorded waves ever to hit Irish shores.. Jayce Robinson was photographed catching the major Atlantic swell at Mullaghmore Head, which produced waves of up to 67ft. The daredevil dislocated his knee - and his board snapped in half - during his efforts on Tuesday. But Mr Robinson, from St Ives, is no rookie to the surf. He is the former top Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) European junior - and hits the waves in international surfing competitions as much as possible. The 22-year-old, who has been surfing since he was just seven, told Sky News Online: "It was definitely the biggest barrell I've ever surfed.

 Student Loans Company's fraud alert

The Student Loans Company is contacting some of its customers by telephone amid fears of a fraud attack. The company says it is calling those customers whom it has "identified as being at risk of having their details compromised". The student loan system is facing sustained "phishing" attacks, with 1,400 websites shut down this year. Customers are being told to be "vigilant with their personal details". The company says it cannot confirm whether or not any private details of customers have been hacked - arguing that it does not want to supply any further information which could be useful to fraudsters.

HAVE YOU EVER HEARD OF BAHATI RIDGE ESTATE?

Bahati Ridge is a unique, middle income integrated development in Thika on 90 acres of land. The focus of the development is a holistic, wholesome lifestyle that combines residences, shopping, recreational and office facilities. Bahati Ridge is a flagship project for Kenya. The development is designed to set new standards and will be marketed as a destination address. The master plan, road, water and power networks have all taken into account the expected population in both the residential and commercial facilities of the project. The residential population is expected to be about 2,000 people housed in 337 homes while the commercial population will be roughly 500 people: 200 in the school, 200 in the hospital and 100 staff overall. This gives a total population of about 2,500 people. Vehicle population is expected to be about 700 cars for the residences and 100 cars for the commercial population. Situated in Thika, a mere 45-minute drive from Nairobi’s Central Business District (30 minutes on the soon-to-be completed eight lane super-highway), Bahati Ridge presents an exciting selection of townhouses, villas, bungalows and cottages that feature beautiful hill country views, a tranquil rural ambience and a refreshing escape from city chaos. Discerning homeowners will love this 90-acre integrated gated community and all the benefits of country living. Each residence will be a short five-to-ten minute walk from the common centre. The centre is the hub of community life, and features a supermarket, cafe, salons and restaurants providing a convenient meeting place full of diverse options. For more information visit www.bahatiridge.co.ke – CLICK HERE FOR MAP

Government agrees to compensate Syokimau victims

The Government has agreed to consider compensation for victims of the recent demolitions in Nairobi but only on a case by case basis.  Lands Minister James Orengo while responding to debate on the joint report on the demolitions said only genuine victims will receive some restitution but not equivalent to the value of property demolished or property lost. He however said the compensation will be pegged on availability of resources. Orengo regretted the manner the demolitions were carried out but defended the move to clear the area of structures that pose a security threat. MPs however demanded to know a clear program of compensation with Chief Whip Johnstone Muthama saying victims should know when the compensation will begin.  Nominated MP Millie Odhiambo urged the government to root out influential landlords of informal illegal settlements. She claimed some MPs were landlords to property in Kyangombe.  Turkana central MP Ekwe Ethuro challenged the Lands minister to take advantage of the committee's recommendations and reform the land sector. Lari MP David Njuguna urged Orengo to embark on a cleanup of his Ministry to shield Kenyans from fraudsters. Mutito MP Kiema Kilonzo said compensation must be expedited arguing that if the country has money to fight the al shabaab it should set aside some funds for compensation. Parliament endorsed the report unanimously.

Raila exonorated

Meanwhile Prime Minister Raila Odinga was on Wednesday exonerated from claims that he owns land in the controversial Syokimau area. Finance Assistant Minister Oburu Odinga admitted that the Prime minister was one of the directors of the company alleged to own land in Syokimau in 2001 but resigned in 2003. He accused Water Assistant Minister Ferdinand Waititu of dragging the Prime minister in the demolition saga in a scheme aimed at maligning him. He spoke even as Lands Minister James Orengo promised to release the names of influential personalities owning land in Syokimau and other areas that were not ready for alienation. Orengo hinted that most of the names include top government officials and some Members of Parliament own land adjacent to the Jomo Kenyatta International airport. Gwassi MP John Mbadi demanded to know the connection between the Prime minister owning land and the demolitions also seeking to know whether the land alleged to be owned by the PM is at the same site where the demolitions took place. Lands Minister Orengo undertook to respond to the issue comprehensively when he responds to the motion by the joint committee probing the recent demolitions in Nairobi.  Orengo was issuing the statement to clarify on documents tabled in parliament yesterday during debate on the committees report.  

Orengo said while documents tabled by Assistant Minister Wavinya Ndeti were genuine, her allegations that they were two separate titles for the same land was erroneous. Orengo also clarified that most of the informal settlements demolished although not within the flight path did not conform to the civil aviation act and were a threat to security.  He informed Parliament that his Ministry has finalized drafting an eviction bill which will guide demolitions. He however said in future all demolitions will be carried out within the law, urging the internal security docket to coordinate demolition efforts to ensure it is carried out in a humane way. Parliament is yet to fully adopt the report of the joint committees probing the recent demolitions in Syokimau, Maasai village, eastleigh, Mitumba estates carried out in the city recently.  The report recommends compensation to victims of the demolitions, an audit by government within 90 days of all public land grabbed, an audit of land occupied by security installations, it gives the government 90 days to establish the national land commission and the same time to adopt the Ndungu land report on public land among many other recommendations.

Fuel Prices  in Kenya drop

Kenyans can now breathe a sigh of relief following a downward revision of fuel products by the Energy Regulatory Commission(ERC).  ERC has revised petrol prices in Nairobi by 5.07 shillings, diesel by Sh3.33 while kerosene will also trade 4.13 cheaper. This means that petrol will retail at Sh110.97 per litre in Nairobi while diesel will sell at 119.06 shillings per litre and kerosene will trade at 90.74. The drop is largely attributed to the strengthening shilling which average at 93.64 in the Month of November. In a statement the ERC said“Taking into account the costs of imported products and products refined locally, the overall result is that the maximum allowed price of super petrol in Nairobi decreases by Sh5.07 per litre.”  Wednesdays' fuel price decrease by the ERC was received by Kenyans with more optimism that the prices will continue decreasing especially in this holiday season. The recovery of the shilling which has surged up by 8.2% since the last review to settle at 93.64 compared to 101.96 was enough to impact on the prices. Petrol will thus sell at Kshs.119.06 in Nairobi, Kshs.115.79 in Mombasa and Kshs.120.79 in Kisumu. Diesel will also trade cheapest in Mombasa selling at kshs.107.72, in Nairobi it will sell at 110.97, and 112.93 in Kisumu. The reduction in cost of especially diesel and petrol is expected to bring down transport cost especially in this holiday season. A decrease in diesel prices following its overutilization in industries is also expected to have a bearing on other commodity prices and an overall impact in stemming the rising inflation. Just last month's increment fuelled inflation to a new high of 19.72%. The reduction in cost is also expected to have an impact on electricity prices  compounded by the heavy rainfall that is expected to improve water levels in dams heavily relied on for hydroelectricity which constitute about 60% of Kenya's overall energy requirements. Kerosene another important fuel especially for domestic use is also expected to improve people's income leaving the poor in society with more savings even after lighting and cooking.

Justice team rejects nominees to graft body

In the first successful assignment by the hitherto wrangle ridden justice committee, members have vetted the nominees to head the ethics and anti corruption commission and submitted the report to parliament after 8 months of bickering. Committee Vice Chair Njoroge Baiya tabled the report that rejected the nominees explaining that though all of them possess exemplary academic credentials, they lacked the passion to fight graft. The committee is urging Parliament to reject the nominees which could further undermine the fight against graft. Mumo Matemu had been nominated as Chair while Professor Jane Onsongo was to deputize him and Irene Keino was nominated as commissioner.

UK unemployment hits 17-year high

Unemployment reached a 17-year high today after another 128,000 joined the jobless ranks, taking the total to 2.64 million. A series of grim figures delivered a pre-Christmas blow to the Government, with youth and female unemployment showing big rises and the number of people claiming jobseeker's allowance increasing for the ninth month in a row. Travel giant Thomas Cook added to the gloom by announcing more than 600 job losses and 115 shop closures. Employment fell by 63,000 in the quarter to October to 29.11 million, while the number of people working in the public sector dipped below six million for the first time since 2003. The unemployment rate is now 8.3%, up 0.4% on the quarter - the highest since 1996 - while the jobless total is now worse than at any time since 1994. Unemployment among 16 to 24-year-olds increased by 54,000 to 1.03 million, the highest since records began in 1992.

The Office for National Statistics also reported that women's unemployment increased by 45,000 to 1.1 million, the highest figure since 1988. The number of people out of work for longer than a year rose by 19,000 in the latest quarter to 868,000, the worst figure since 1996. Jobseeker's allowance claimants increased by 3,000 last month to 1.6 million, the ninth consecutive monthly rise and the highest total since the start of 2010. The number of job vacancies fell by 8,000 to 455,000, while 161,000 people were made redundant in the three months to October, down by 1,000 on the previous quarter. The number of economically-inactive people, including students, those on long-term sick leave, looking after a relative, or who have given up looking for a job, fell by 54,000 to 9.33 million. Public sector employment fell by 67,000 in the third quarter of the year to 5.9 million, including 59,000 in local government and 9,000 in the civil service.

Thomas Cook to close 200 UK branches

Thomas Cook has said it will close 200 UK stores over the next two years as part of its UK business turnaround plan - 125 more than previously announced. Staff at 115 of the affected stores are expected to be informed of their fate on Wednesday with the loss of 661 jobs. News of the closures came as the travel firm reported a £398m ($616m) loss for the year to the end of September. The world's oldest travel agency has been looking to cut its debts to restore the confidence of investors.  In November, it secured £200m of new financing, just days after seeing its shares plunge 75% in one day. Its lenders, including Barclays, HSBC, RBS and UniCredit, agreed to provide the new facility until 30 April 2013.

Orengo under fire as parliament

endorses demolition report
 

The government will now be forced to compensate victims of the recent demolitions in Nairobi after parliament unanimously endorsed the report of the joint committee probing the recent demolitions in parts of Nairobi. MPs said the Ministry of Lands should shoulder the blame for fraudulent land deals arguing that it was not the responsibility of individuals to determine the authenticity of documents. They blamed the government for failing to advise victims of the demolitions especially those in Syokimau when they had just began constructing instead of waiting for completion to demolish. They demanded that the Lands Minister James Orengo cleans up his ministry to weed out corrupt officers. Assistant minister Kabando wa Kabando challenged Orengo to spearhead reforms in his ministry to protect Kenyans from such land scams. Eldama Ravine MP Moses Lessonet questioned how the approved allocation by parliament for the computerization of   land transactions went. Mathira MP Ephraim Maina criticized the government for targeting the poor in the evictions questioning why the huge buildings on Mombasa road built on road reserve have not been demolished as the government rushes to target the marginalized. Embakasi MP Ferdinand Waititu again implicated the Prime minister Raila Odinga and Assistant Finance Minister Dr Oburu Odinga of being behind the demolitions. He tabled documents which he claimed were the results of a search that shows that the two own huge tracts of land through a company named New Point claiming they instigated the demolitions. But nominated MP Millie Odhiambo demanded evidence linking the Prime minister to the demolitions insisting that owning land does not amount to instigating the evictions. Waititu however insisted that his information was factual. Orengo expressed concern over the allegations saying the land cited by Waititu was not within the area discussed in the report.

Party rivalry

He said the motion should not be used to malign others without tangible and verifiable proof. Orengo said Waititu should have tabled the documents with the speaker before issuing the allegations which he described as name calling. Orengo warned Waititu over the path he had taken saying he should be the last person to talk of land fraud in the country. Internal Security assistant minister Orwa Ojode also demanded evidence from Waititu how the company associated with the Prime Minister initiated the demolitions and whether it was criminal for the Prime minister to own land in the country. Waititu claimed that the land owned by the Prime minister through his company is at KPA an area where the demolitions took place. He claimed senior people were behind the demolitions because the properties affected were outside the flight path. Waititu said only a senior person in the country could have instigated the demolitions. Kabando accused Orengo of attempting to shield the PM.

He claimed that the PMwas not beyond reproach accusing Orengo of attempting to subjugate debate. Tempers flared with MPs raising points of orders following Kabando's statement. Temporary speaker  Dr Joyce Laboso was forced to intervene directing MPs to conduct themselves with some decorum. It was an issue that saw party rivalry revived with MPs allied to PNU rising to support Waititu while those allied to ODM demanding evidence linking the PM to the demolitions. Nominated MP Millie Odhiambo claimed parliament has been turned into a theatre of the absurd accusing Waititu of being a landlord at Kya'ngombe. She claimed that soon MPs will begin blaming the Prime Minister for everything including a bad marriage or for siring a white child. Waititu however could not provide evident linking the Prime Minister to the evictions only claiming the selective way it was carried out point out to a superior person being behind it. Other contributions saw MPs support the report and its recommendations. The report seeks to have the government compensate victims of the demolitions, resettle those evicted from Eastleigh airbase, audit all public land, establish a national land commission within 90 days in addition to adopt the Ndungu land report on public land, enact an eviction law among other recommendations.

A MAASAI PROVERB

Erisio laikin o kaae.

Defeats are similar to death.

WORD OF TODAY

2 Corinthians 4:16

“….THE INWARD MAN IS BEING RENEWED DAY BY DAY”

2 Corinthians 4:16 explains: "Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day."  Paul writes: ‘….Though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day' (2 Corinthians 4:16 NKJV). There's an outer you; your body, reputation and persona. And there is an inner you; your character, spirit and soul. The outer you is what everybody sees, the inner you is invisible. The outer you can be coerced by other people or forces, the inner you is always free to choose. The outer you is temporary, the inner you is eternal. Like it or not, the outer you is 'perishing.' From age twenty-five, bones begin to lose calcium and get brittle, skin begins to lose elasticity and shrivel, and age spots begin to multiply. If you're over thirty, you lose thousands of brain cells every day. Weight starts shifting from the poles of your body toward the equator. And everyone in your life who's over thirty wants you to know they understand. They love you, but frankly, they're looking forward to it. You can fight it, but you won't win. You can lavish time and money on the outer you: exercise it, starve it, Botox it, stretch it, lift it, tuck it, tan it and dress it up in John Lewis, yet the truth is, '...all are from the dust, and all return to dust' (Ecclesiastes 3:20 NKJV). But here's what's important: You will never cease to exist. Your spirit, the inner you, is in the process of becoming something either unbelievably good or unimaginably dark. That something is the main thing God sees when He looks at you. It's what matters most to Him. So work on the inner you!

I take this opportunity to invite you in our pray Conference Prayer every Morning from 6.00-7.00a.m. call this local number in UK Tel  02030042084 pin No.67299# and you will be able to join us for prayers. It is a free number with landline in UK.

Our Guest Singer today - is Loise Kim from the Republic of Kenya - CLICK HERE

Europe credit crunch fear as banks stash cash in ECB

The amount of cash stashed at the European Central Bank overnight by nervy banks reached an 18-month high of €346 billion (£293 billion) today, in a fresh sign of the continuing strains on the eurozone's struggling financial institutions. The cash pumped into the ECB's overnight deposit facility - despite the low 0.5% interest rate paid on the funds until tomorrow - added to the mounting evidence of a credit crunch among European banks choosing to hoard funds rather than lend.  ING Bank analyst Martin Van Vliet said: "This reflects the strains on the interbank market at the moment - there's been a strong upward trend in the amounts that some banks are depositing with the ECB." Europe's sovereign debt crisis has seen scores of banks shut out of money markets, forcing them to turn to the ECB to help.  The central bank's figures revealed that 197 European banks borrowed a total of €292 billion from the ECB today - the highest amount since June 2009.  The figures come amid reports of talks over another bailout for Commerzbank, Germany's second-biggest bank.

RACHEL NJERI PERFORMING AT STATE HOUSE

Kenya Gospel Musician from Nottingham UK Rachel Njeri (white) was among the Gospel Singers at State House to Mark the 48th Jamhuri Day celebrations. Seen above greeting President Kibaki before joining hands together with Loise Kim (cream far right) and Peninah Wanjiku (red) where they made an excellent performance.

CBK Bankers deal - CLICK HERE

JAMHURI DAY SPEECH BY H.E. EPHRAIM W. NGARE ON THE OCCASSION

OF KENYA’S 48th NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATIONS HELD ON 9TH FRIDAY, 2011

AT LONDON HOTEL INTER CONTINENTAL, PARK LANE HOTEL

Your Excellencies,

Distinguished guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Thank you all for joining us to celebrate the 48th Jamhuri Day.   This is the single most important day in our National Calendar of events because it reminds us of the momentous day in 1963, when Kenya attained her independence.

It is also a day when we take stock of the state of our Nation, and prospects for the future.  Since 1963 to date, we have realized tremendous achievements as a country in several of our socio-economic sectors, such as the fight against poverty, ignorance, and disease. 

During the last 48 years, we have also realized major achievements in key sectors such as in the education sector (with 8.5 million children benefitting from free primary education),  provision of better health care facilities,  including the provision of free anti-retroviral drugs for HIV/Aids patients, and free anti-malaria and TB drugs.

Other achievements realized includes expansion in rural electrification, energy sector, expansion in our tourism facilities,  ICT Sector with three fibre optic cables wiring the whole country, expansion in irrigation projects in our arid and semi arid areas, improvements in the agricultural sector, manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade, business processing Outsourcing (BOP), and financial services.

We have also made major progress in the  rapid development of our human resource with 34 Universities to date, and with our skilled manpower spread all over Eastern and Southern Africa Region.

In addition, during  the four (4) years of the present Coalition Government, massive investments have been made in the infrastructure development throughout the whole country and this includes roads, railways, airports, and air transport in  such a manner that it would be impossible to refer to any region in Kenya today as “remote”.

Since 1963, we have also made huge advances in gender policies,  expansion in our democratic space, upholding of fundamental Human Rights, and youth empowerment.

In Kenya today, we also have a very vibrant media that is free to discuss any topic without fear; and a very  active Civil Society which is essential for the advancement of our democratic principles!

Peace and Stability:- Since the attainment of independence,  Kenya has also seen and continues to be a beacon of peace and stability in the region.  Over the period, we  have also been a key regional peace maker.

Again and because of our strategic location, Kenya has also continued to be the natural gateway to the Eastern and Great Lakes Region, with its fairly well developed Northern Transport Corridor that links Kenya to eleven (11) other neighbouring countries, including Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, DRC Congo, Ethiopia and Southern Sudan.

At the multilateral level, Kenya continues to be the epi-centre of the UN’s peace-making and humanitarian activities within the Eastern and Central Africa region. Kenya also hosts the global HQs of both United Nations Environment Programme and UN Habitat. Kenya  also continues to play an active role at the Commonwealth Secretariat,  and is also  current Member of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Governing Body.

In the fight against piracy off the Indian Ocean, Kenya continues to play a key frontline role.

Kenya/UK Relations:- Both Kenya and the United Kingdom continues to enjoy long standing friendly relations deeply rooted in very close historical ties.  It is Kenya’s strong commitment and desire to strengthen these strong bonds of friendship and excellent relations even further, for the mutual benefit of our two countries.  

Excellencies,

Our excellent relations with the United Kingdom also find eloquent expression in our very close cultural and sporting ties.  Such cultural links have also been reinforced by the presence of a sizeable diasporas in both countries, including the presence of slightly over 3000 Kenyan students pursuing advance studies in various UK Universities.

At the bilateral level, both Kenya and the United Kingdom continue to enjoy excellent commercial relations.

For example, the  United Kingdom was last year Kenya’s second largest export market after Uganda.

In 2010 for example, the aggregate trade between the two partners was Stg. £974 million (US$1.51 million). The trade balance was once again in Kenya’s favour.  We have also established a niche market for some of our leading products here in UK such as  tea, coffee, flowers, fruits and vegetables.

With regard to tourism, the United Kingdom remains the leading source of tourists to Kenya with 174,051 tourists visiting the country in 2010, a 6 per cent increase from the 2009 arrivals. 

We also continue to address our visitor’s key concerns back at home, and especially improvements in  infrastructure to various tourist facilities, improvements in security through the on-going police reforms,  and provision of additional high quality hotel accommodation, among others.

With regards to investment promotion in general, the  United Kingdom remains by far the single largest Foreign Investor in Kenya.  British investments in

Kenya are estimated to be worth Stg. £2 billion with over 68 companies  spread across most sectors in the economy. This year for example,  four High Level Trade Missions by British Companies were undertaken to  Kenya from Birmingham City on security,  Aid funded businesses,  London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the visit by the Lord Mayor of the City of London in September, 2011.

In particular, the Lord Mayor’s Trade Mission to Kenya proved   proved very beneficial in helping to raise the profile of Kenya as a market with great potential for the UK financial services. The visit also helped to secure increased interest from the London Financial Services Industry to Kenyan opportunities.

Excellencies,

One of the greatest achievements ever realized in Independent Kenya was the adoption of a brand new Constitution which was promulgamated by H E the President on 27th August 2010.

All Kenyans agree that following the adoption of the above new Constitution, Kenya has been completely transformed for good. In particular, the new Constitution is very strong on the Bill of rights, rule of law, protection of the independence of the judiciary, protection of private property, protection of maginalized communities and the disabled persons etc.,

As Kenyans, we note with appreciation that the new Constitution is already being actively implemented.

The above new Constitution has also set up a new Leadership and Integrity Code (under Chapter six of the new Constitution), and anybody hoping to occupy public positions, will be looked upon on the basis of merit, competence, vision and integrity.

Other important changes includes the introduction of a new governance architecture in form of a devolved County System of Government that has shifted power from the centre to county level.  Also in line with the new Constitution, a new electoral system has  been established and which is expected  to deliver a transparent, peaceful, free and credible  General Election in 2012.

On the economic front, the Grand Coalition Government continues to actively implement the country’s long term development blueprint under Vision 2030 as launched in 2008 – that is currently under active implementation and that is expected to transform our country into a middle income country with a high quality of life by the year 2030 – i.e. through the implementation of six (6) key flagship projects, namely, tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, wholesale and retail, business processing outsourcing (BPO) and Financial Services.

We also note with satisfaction that despite the fact that we are experiencing economic and social challenges,  Kenya’s International Credit Rating was recently upgraded (by a top International Credit rating Agency Standard and Poor) to a B+.

We also note with appreciation, that the country’s economic recovery since the 2007 general election, has been gradual but positive. In 2010, for example, our country’s economy grew by 5.7%, while the prediction for 2011 stands at 5.2% - due to current global economic downturn, high oil price increases, drought, and instability in the Middle East.

Excellencies,

On regional integration, it is gratifying to note that the five countries of East African Community, namely, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi, remains totally committed to sustaining the momentum in the on-going EAC integration process, through effective implementation of the Common Market Protocol which  all five countries have ratified. Indeed, the sole purpose of the on-going EAC Regional integration process among the five East African Countries, is to enable potential investors to consider it as a single economic block with a viable market of 130 million people and which they should take advantage of to invest in East African region.

TOAST

May I now propose a toast to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the II  of the United Kingdom and  Head of the Commonwealth; and to His Excellency Hon. Mwai Kibaki, CGH., MP, President and Commander-In-Chief of the Defence Forces of the Republic of Kenya.

Thanking you all for coming.

Cabinet cuts low-priority expenditures

The Cabinet has directed all civil servant pay requests to the yet to be formed Salaries Review Commission. The cabinet that met on Tuesday at State House further agreed to cut government spending on official travel, Procurement of Government vehicles and office furniture, hospitality, Printing, advertising and other low-priority expenditures. Meeting under the chairmanship of President Mwai Kibaki, the Cabinet reviewed the salary requests by various public sector employees and noted that the composition of the Salaries Remuneration Commission (SRC) would be completed in the next two weeks. "The Cabinet reviewed the requests in the context of current budgetary constraints facing the country and ordered that such requests should be directed to the Salaries Remuneration Commission, in order to ensure harmony and sustainability of the Government and parastatals wage bill" read the statement from the Presidential Press Service. In this regard the Cabinet said that individual ministries will now act as facilitators of submissions to the Commission. Parliament's Finance committee has approved names of 12 nominees to the commission. Under the Constitution, the Salaries and Remuneration Commission is supposed to ensure that the total public compensation Bill is fiscally sustainable. The Cabinet said it also reviewed implementation of the current budget in view of the significantly changed economic environment.

Infrastructure financing

The meeting also authorized the borrowing by Treasury of a short- term loan amounting to U.S. $ 600 Million from external markets to support infrastructure financing. Cabinet also noted that the International Monetary Fund ( I.M.F.) had approved an Extended Credit Facility (E.C.F.) of U.S. $ 760 million under a three year arrangement. The board's decision enabled the immediate disbursement of $ 143 million, bringing total disbursements under the ECF to an amount equivalent to $ 312 million. The Cabinet also reviewed the flood situation in the country and directed that the Cabinet committee on disaster management should ensure that all necessary measures are put in place to ease the suffering of those affected. The Cabinet committee was scheduled to meet Tuesday afternoon under the Chairmanship of the Rt. Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

UK inflation rate falls to 4.8% in November

The rate of Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation in the UK fell to 4.8% during November, down from 5% the month before, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The rate still remains well above the Bank of England's target of 2%. Retail Prices Index (RPI) inflation - which includes mortgage interest payments - fell to 5.2% from 5.4%. The fall was partly due to a slowdown in the rise in food and non-alcoholic drink prices. Cereals and bread prices fell by 1% in the month, compared with a 1.9% increase a year ago. Vegetable prices fell by 1% between October and November, their largest fall over this period for a decade. There was also a fall in the price of sugar, jam, chocolate and sweets.

'Lingering risk'

The ONS figures showed that slower rises in transport, clothing and furniture costs also contributed to the fall in CPI. "November's UK inflation figures provide further hope that inflation has now passed its peak and could soon fall pretty sharply," said Vicky Redwood of Capital Economics. She added: "There is still a lingering risk that inflation picks up again in December, but come January - when the VAT rise drops out - it should start to fall like a stone.  "We still think that inflation will be below its target by the autumn, before dropping to 1% or lower." And David Kern, chief economist at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: "The fall in inflation in November was as expected, and will accelerate in the early months of 2012." But there were words of caution from TUC general secretary Brendan Barber. "Last month's drop in inflation offers some respite for people over the festive period," he said. "But with pay growth under 2%, people are still getting poorer and millions of families are facing a very tough Christmas this year. "It will take many more months of falling inflation, and far higher wage increases, before this long and painful period of real terms pay cuts comes to an end."

Bank predictions

The largest upward contributors to inflation in the retail sector were alcohol and tobacco. The ONS also said that prices of electricity, gas and other fuels rose at an annual rate of 20.9%, the fastest pace since February 2009. The Bank of England said earlier this year that it expected the rate of inflation to drop in 2012 as prices fall back and the impact of the government's increase in VAT is no longer felt. The Bank believes weak economic growth will push inflation below the 2% mark over the next 18 months. Data from the ONS last week showed that the rate of increase in the cost of goods being by manufacturers was also easing.

Savers 'lose out'

The prolonged period of high inflation has made it difficult for savers to keep up with rising prices. According to the Moneyfacts financial information service, people would need to find an account paying 6% for their savings to keep up with inflation. "Savers continue to lose out to inflation even though the rate fell today," said Sylvia Waycot of Moneyfacts. "With returns so low and inflation unsteady, people don't know which way to turn."

DEREVA CHUNGA MAISHA

Six people died this morning after the lorry they were travelling in crashed into a building in Embu town. The lorry was ferrying Bananas from Meru towards Nairobi.  - Tuesday 13th December, 2011.

At least one person has been confirmed dead in a crash involving two buses on Waiyaki Way near Kangemi and several others injured. The buses were headed towards Westlands when the accident occurred.  - Tuesday 13th December, 2011.

 - Tuesday 13th December, 2011.

Kenya to import Power from Ethiopia

Kenya will import electricity from Ethiopia to boost the national capacity by 400 Megawatts, Energy Minister Kiraitu Murungi has disclosed. The deal which is being financed by the World Bank, Africa Development Bank and the French Agency for Development at a cost of Ksh64 billion will be sealed on Wednesday  at the conclusion of talks between Kenya and Ethiopia being held at Safari Park Hotel. Mr Kiraitu leads the Kenyan delegation while Ethiopia's delegation is led by the Minister of Water and Energy, Mr Alemayehu Tegenu. Briefing the media, Mr Kiraitu said once the agreement is signed, Kenya's national grid will be connected to Ethiopia by 2016 as part of the Vision 2030 blueprint. "We are committed to increase the national capacity in line with Vision 2030. It is a massive high cost project which once done will bring down the cost of power in the country." he said. "We want to promote regional trade in power by buying and selling of power across the region all the way to Zambia." The minister also disclosed he will be meeting with a delegation from South Sudan to discuss how Kenya can start importing oil from that country. On his part, Mr Tegenu said Ethiopia had the capacity to supply electricity in the region sourced from their hydro stations and geothermal plants. His country was in a position to increase the electricity to Kenya from the 400MW to 1,000MW in future. His country is currently supplying Moyale town which lies on the border between the two countries. "There is a political will and full commitment by the two countries in the talks which are now on the final stages of conclusion. The only pending issue is finalizing the power purchase agreement," he said.

Inpekta Mwala takes the Bench

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eVfRmZ4lHdA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sL0sE0M6ONk&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BGQRd0avSAY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUQoe8of_mA&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKARw1vO6cA&feature=related

You can now re-negotiate your bank loan

You can now re-negotiate your bank loan repayment after banks agreed not to increase their interest rates despite the Central Bank of Kenya rate going up. According to Bankers Association CEO Habil Olaka, banks have also agreed to extend the repayment period for borrowers to reduce the risk of default.

The Secret of Life
We attract to ourselves what we hold inside. Every circumstance, every person, and every situation that we attract and experience is based on what is inside of us. Could you ask for a more magnificent system than this? Your life is a reflection of what you hold inside you, and what you hold inside you is always under your control.

 ARE YOU 18 YEARS AND OVER?

If you are 18 years and over and would like to perform at the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics. Click here to register for the February auditions. https://www.london2012.com/games/ceremonies/get-involved/ceremonies-application.php

Price wars lead to second fall in rate of inflation

Shoppers were offered a welcome pre-Christmas boost today when the rate of inflation fell for the second month running. Massive high street discounting and falling supermarket prices helped push down the headline measure of the rising cost of living down from 5 per cent to 4.8 per cent. The fall strengthened City hopes that the Consumer Prices Index, which reached 5.2 per cent in September, has now peaked, helping to ease the pressure on family budgets. Some economists predict that inflation could plummet to as low as 1 per cent by this time next year following recent falls in the oil price and the effect of last January's VAT increase no longer affecting the year-on-year comparisons of shop prices. Today's fall was helped by a dramatic slowdown in food inflation following bumper agricultural harvests and the outbreak of supermarket price wars triggered by Tesco's "Big Price Drop". Bread and cereal prices dropped by 1 per cent between October and November, while vegetables also fell by 1 per cent - a record for the time of year. Sugar, jam and chocolate were 0.7 per cent cheaper than a month previously, also a record. Clothing prices rose by 1.2 per cent, a much smaller increase than the 2 per cent seen in the same month last year. Fashion chains have been offering record promotions throughout the autumn, in part because shoppers have less money to spend but also in response the extraordinarily mild weather in October and November.

“The secret of genius is to carry the spirit of childhood into maturity.” ~T.H. Huxley

Britain's High Streets Reach 'Crisis Point'

More than 50% of total consumer spend is now off British high streets for the first time in history. The shock statistic is revealed with the publication of a report compiled by Mary Portas, star of the BBC's Mary Queen of Shops programme. The retail expert has come up with a plan to rejuvenate Britain's ailing high streets, some of which she claims are in crisis. Her independent review, carried out at the request of Prime Minister David Cameron, also maintains that town centre vacancy rates have doubled over the past two years. "I believe that our high streets have reached a crisis point. Unless urgent action is taken, much of Britain will lose, irretrievably, something that is fundamental to our society, and which has real social and economic worth to our communities," she said. "I would like to state from the start that this report is not about pointing fingers of blame. "While I do believe that there are many compelling instances where out-of-town retail has drained the traffic and shopping trade from our town centres, it would be naive and far too easy simply to think that they are to blame for the decline of our high streets. "The fact is that the major supermarkets and malls have delivered highly convenient, needs-based retailing, which serves today's consumers well. "Sadly, the high streets didn't adapt as quickly or as effectively. Now they need to." Ms Portas has called for change and recommends licensing rules on high street stalls be relaxed and that a national market day be introduced. She (SNP: SHEY - news) also wants free parking in certain areas, some form of high street management system to form coherent policies, as well as a review of business rates and shop rents. Tom Ironside from the British Retail Consortium agrees that there is much to be done.

"There are some long-standing challenges facing the high street locations which include planning, transport, safety and security and also the cost of doing business in high street locations as well," he said. "All of those need to be tackled if we're to get to a situation where our towns and city centres can thrive. "Certainly where new business rates come into play we think that there's a real role for a better business rates regime in supporting new businesses as they come forward. "But business rates need to be cheaper for everyone. At the moment they go up very quickly year-on-year and we want to see that take place in a much more affordable way." In the Worcestershire market town of Pershore rates for small businesses have been frozen. Those small businesses with a rateable value of £6,000 and under will pay no business rates at all until March 2013. High street (BSE: HIGHSTREE.BO - news) butcher Dave Goodyear said: "It has been a lifeline. Without that freeze, a lot of people would have sunk and gone under. But this is just what the independent trade needs." Despite the pressures of out of town shopping centres, supermarkets and the internet, Pershore is now fairing well. Ms Portas added: "The phenomenal growth of online retailing, the rise of shopping by mobile, the speed and sophistication of the major national and international retailers, the epic and immersive experiences offered by today's new breed of shopping mall, combined with a crippling recession, have all conspired to change today's retail landscape. "New expectations have been created in terms of value, service, entertainment and experience against which the average high street has, in many cases, failed to deliver. "The only hope our high streets have of surviving is to recognise what has happened and to provide something new."

JAMHURI DAY CELEBRATIONS LONDON ON 9TH DEC. 2011 - CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

China says mulling Seychelles naval hosting offer

Beijing (AP) -- China said Tuesday it is considering an offer from the Seychelles to host Chinese naval ships in the Indian Ocean island nation, highlighting the increasing global reach of a navy that recently launched its first aircraft carrier. State-run media gave prominent coverage to the Seychelles offer to allow rest and resupply for Chinese ships in the multinational force conducting anti-piracy patrols off the coast of Somalia, which China has joined since late 2008. But the reports were careful to reaffirm China's firm policy of not establishing permanent military bases overseas, a cornerstone of Beijing's claim not to be seeking regional hegemony or military alliances with other nations. "China's position is clear. China has never set up military bases in other countries," Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Weimin told reporters at a daily news briefing. Chinese ships assigned to the anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden have visited several ports to allow their crews to rest and to take on supplies, including in Yemen and Oman on the Arabian Peninsula and Djibouti on the Horn of Africa. The China Daily newspaper said the invitation from the Seychelles was issued during a visit to the archipelago by Defense Minister Liang Guanglie earlier this month.

Six perish in Embu accident

Six people died on the spot when a lorry they were traveling in from Meru to Nairobi rammed into a Kenya Commercial Bank building in Embu town Sunday evening 11th December, 2011. The casualties included the lorry driver, two men, two women and a pedestrian. Embu West District Commissioner Mohamed Maalim speaking at the scene of the accident said the driver of the lorry that was transporting vegetables lost control crashing into the wall.   Maalim said initial investigations showed that the driver was very drunk at the time of the accident. According to an eye witness, the lorry was speeding and was swerving from side to side. "The front right tyre was emitting smoke about a hundred metres from the spot of the accident and we were forced to run away for our lives," he said. He said that the lorry first hit two cars that were parked outside the building's compound before crashing into the building.

UPCOMING EVENTS & CONFERENCES
CATCH THE FIRE CONFERENCE UK TOUR 2011 !!!

Dr. Jennifer Irungu & the entire Kingdom church welcomes you to CATCH THE FIRE CONFERENCE 2011 @The Kingdom Church MILTON KEYNES, ). Online Viewers Log onto www.ladiesonfire.org For this live feed special
ENTRY IS FREE!!!
Guest speakers: Dr. Jennifer Irungu
Date: December 17th 2011 
Time: 7 pm 

Venue: MILTON KEYNES, OLD BATH HOUSE & COMMUNITY (NEXT TO TESCO) 205 STRATFORD, WOLVERHAMPTON, MILTON KEYNES MK 12 SRL
For more info call :01908 225955 , 070855244189 ,07531663598

THIS WEEKEND DR JENNIFER IRUNGU IS IN MILTON KEYNES 

For Ladies on Fire The Year 2011 Final Conference 

Call 07855244189 For directions or Email drjennifer@ladiesonfire.org 

"I AM GOING FOR RONGAI PARLIAMENTARY SEAT IN 2012"

"Get it right, I am going for a Parliamentary Seat in Rongai Constituency in 2012. I am serious and  you can remember I received a new Kenyan Identity Card last week. I live in South East London and I have done my homework down there." Mr. Anthony Thuo explains to the Deputy High Commissioner Ms Jackline Rumumba Yonga at the Jamhuri Celebrations in London on Friday 9th December, 2011.

Kuchu and Lucy contact in Kenya. Njuguna (Kuchu) 0703308044 and Lucy (Mama Njeri) 0728219563.

TOASTING FOR THE QUEEN AND PRESIDENT KIBAKI

During the Jamhuri Celebrations in London on Friday 9th December, 2011 the High Commissioner HE Ephraim Ngare concluded his speech by a toast to the the Queen and  to the president of Kenya HE Mwai Kibaki (right photo) where many came dressed for the occasion on left is Councillor Elizabeth Kangethe (far left) Mrs. Rose Muigai and Mrs. Mabel Mark. - CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

KENYA NEWS IN VIDEOS

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dN7S5fhBmnQ&feature=player_embedded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WvcQG0VZ318&feature=player_embedded

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43aaxeZ4dpo&feature=player_embedded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UjVpu3AQFYM&feature=player_embedded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKN9hUTFbIo&feature=player_embedded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27ZmiskaKLw&feature=player_embedded

President Kibaki looks back on his two term tenure

 President Kibaki used his Jamhuri Day speech to outline what he believes he has accomplished since he took over in 2003. From the economy to a new constitution, the president declared that the country had changed irreversibly during his time in office. Kibaki vowed to push on with the operation in Somalia, but challenged citizens of that war-torn country to take full charge of their nation. NTV's Richard Chacha has the Jamuhuri Day highlights. President Kibaki has asked the people of Somalia to take advantage of the operation against Al-Shabaab to establish long-term stability in their country. President Kibaki asked the Somalis to reclaim their country and speak out against the fundamentalist militia group that has controlled much of southern Somalia since 2006. “The people of Somalia scattered all over the world must take a collective position and reject those behind the problems in their country,” President Kibaki said in his Jamhuri Day speech. “Kenya stands ready to walk this journey with the people and Government of Somalia that will see the dawn of a bright day of hope for them,” he added. The President was speaking at Nyayo Stadium during celebrations to mark 48 years since Kenya gained  independence. - Daily Nation  - CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

Council tenants forced to pay for unused bedrooms

Tens of thousands of housing benefit claimants in London will face paying extra rent if they live in homes bigger than they need, ministers said today. The crackdown, intended to ease waiting lists and overcrowding, will land up to 70,000 tenants in council and social housing with bills for an extra £20 a week or so. Almost one in five claimants in the capital are believed to have more bedrooms than they need, while more than 360,000 families wait for a home and 100,000 live in cramped conditions. From 2013, housing benefit will reflect the size of the household - meaning a couple in a four-bedroom home will only get money for a two-bedroom property and will have to make up the difference. Ministers hope this will encourage them to downsize, freeing up larger homes for bigger families. Housing benefit is paid now regardless of the size of the property, costing the taxpayer £80million for empty bedrooms in London, and £500million nationwide. Welfare reform minister Lord Freud said: "It's only right that we bring fairness back to the system and make better use of the social housing stock. "This is why from April 2013 we will expect tenants to make a contribution towards the rent if they are in accommodation larger than they need." The new rules will apply to working-age claimants, with pensioners exempt. Measures will also be put in place to protect disabled claimants. The move is part of efforts to cut the annual £21billion housing benefit bill, amid fears it will hit £25billion by 2014/15.

CAUGHT AT THE JAMHURI CELEBRATIONS IN LONDON

Caught at the Jamhuri Celebrations at the Inter Continental Hotel on Friday 12th December 2011 was from left to right - Mrs. Jane Ngare wife of the Kenya High Commissioner in the UK, Pastor Jane Njiiri Mr. Seed's wife, Mrs. Mwaura wife of Mr. Abraham Mwaura the Immigration boss at the Kenya High Commission, Mrs. Mary Nganga the Station Manager of Kenya Airways in London and far right is Mrs. Kigathi of Kenya Airways, London.

Churches in London fear they will lose worshippers

Faith group leaders have hit out at the West End parking plans. At a meeting, Christians, Quakers, Jews and Hindus told how they feared the charges would impact on their places of worship. President of the Radha Krishna temple in Soho Street, Jai Nitai Das, said he feared the loss of hundreds of volunteers and worshippers. Westminster council's deputy head of parking Heather Acton said there had been efforts to help by starting charging at 1pm.

CELEBRATIONS POSES

Kenya High Commissioner in London HE Ephraim Ngare (left) posing with Mr. Joseph Ngugi (Ngugi wa Nation) a Standard Newspaper Correspondent in London and on right is the Military Attaché at the Kenya High Commission Colonel Nderi and his wife posing with Mr. Mburu with his wife Mercy from Milton Keynes.

Naked Man Fleeing Hummer Caught By Police Dog

A naked man was pulled to the ground by a police dog after he fled from a stretched Hummer he had allegedly stolen.  Shocked police arrested the suspect after he emerged from the luxury vehicle without any clothes on. The man had abandoned the limousine following a 30-mile chase with police after allegedly taking the car at gunpoint from a chauffeur in Irvine, California. The driver called 911 and officers began pursuing the Hummer in a helicopter and highway patrol cars. The suspected carjacker was the only person in the vehicle - and it was not clear why he had no clothes on when arrested in Whittier. Smoke rose from the Hummer's tyres as the alleged thief opened the door and tried to make a run for it. As the man fled, an officer said: "He's come to a stop. He's bailed." Then suddenly, he added: "He's naked!" The nude man waved his arms as he ran through the residential area but a police dog quickly caught up with him and wrestled him to the ground. - CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

THANKS TO YOU ALL

Mrs. Evelyn Karamagi of CCBC Swahili Service London would like to take this opportunity to thank family and friends who have prayed and taken time to go and see her in  hospital - Royal Free, Hampstead. She is doing well as you can see and recovering together with her daughter after a kidney transplant last week. She explains  that she has seen God all the way. The daughter donated the kidney an act that has touched her heart.

We have special fare to from London to  Nairobi from £385 including

taxes and   special deal for April and Summer bookings.

70mph winds and heavy rain to hit London this evening

Londoners were today warned to brace themselves for the first of two major storms that will hit the capital this week. Winds of 70mph and heavy rain are set to hit tonight, and forecasters have issued a severe weather warning for London and the South-East. They warned the storms could cause commuters major problems. "It's not going to be nice to be out and about," said Met Office forecaster Dan Williams. "Cloud will come in late afternoon and the wind will start to increase. "We will see gusts of 60-70mph later today across London and the South-East, and we have a weather warning in place from 6pm this evening and all day tomorrow." Heavy overnight rain is also expected from 9pm. It will be the second big storm in a week. Wind up to 165mph hit Scotland and northern England last week, bringing down trees and power lines, causing disruption to roads and closing schools. The storms stem from a powerful surge in the jet stream causing a depression, followed by a collision between sub-tropical and Arctic air. This depression is set to explode into a rapidly intensifying storm, which forecasters say makes this month a candidate for the stormiest December in 82 years. "There is a system of very low pressure coming in from the Atlantic, bringing heavy rain and strong wind with it," said Mr Williams. "All of tomorrow there will be strong winds of up to 30-40mph, although in central London buildings do tend to break up the wind." Forecasters say that although London will get a short respite, Thursday will bring more storms. "As we go through the week it will be fairly clear," said Mr Williams. "However, on Thursday we are going to see the winds getting strong again in the afternoon, with winds of up to 60mph on Thursday night into Friday. It's going to be a very mixed week for London."

Westminster plan to bump truants' families down social housing list

Parents whose children are persistent truants could fall down the social-housing waiting lists under new proposals from a flagship Tory council. Westminster City council on Monday 12th December, 2011 unveiled a new "civic contract" that aims to revolutionise the delivery of public services and save the town hall millions of pounds. Council leader Colin Barrow stressed that the "days of something for nothing are over" as he published the 46-page consultation document which proposes:

Docking points for social-housing waiting lists for households where children are found to be persistently truanting, and for acts of anti-social or criminal behaviour. Priority will be given to people who contribute to society, such as special constables, nurses, soldiers, volunteers and families who foster children.

A £1-a-night new hotel tax so visitors to London pay more towards the centre's upkeep. The council currently pays £50 million more towards the cost of visitors than it receives from them.

Ending second-home council-tax relief for people with a second home in Westminster. This could affect some 9,000 properties, raising £1.25 million to fund affordable-housing programmes.

Possible new licensing levies on restaurants, bars and pubs in the West End.

More pedestrian schemes and less "casual parking" on some streets.

A West End Commission to oversee the running of the West End.

Making sure local residents and businesses take more responsibility for keeping the streets clean.

Cllr Barrow stressed that the reforms would be based on three key principles: responsibility, fairness and opportunity. He added: "We simply cannot do everything that we've done in the past, although we want to continue to offer sound leadership of public services delivered in the city." Other proposed measures include targeting scarce public-services resources at the neediest in society; encouraging the creation of more academies ,with the town hall playing a looser role in education; expecting people who come to  central London to learn English, play a role in the community and to "fit in". Local people will also be expected to stand up against anti-social behaviour, new social impact bonds will aim to get the wealthy to invest in helping troubled families, gang offenders could face eviction from social housing.

JAMHURI DAY CELEBRATIONS LONDON ON 9TH DEC. 2011 - CLICK HERE

Peter Kenneth launches his 2012 manifesto

Planning assistant minister Peter Kenneth has become the first Presidential candidate to release his election manifesto. He listed 13 sectors he will give priority if Kenyans elect him to succeed Kibaki. National security, food security and employment infrastructure, health care, education, tourism, slum upgrade, water, agriculture, diaspora, environment and manufacturing are the areas the Gttanga MP wants to concentrate on once he gets elected. This is the most significant step Kenneth has taken since he declared his interest in the Presidency. He is expected to contest on a Kenya National Congress Party which unsuccessfully fielded candidates in Juja and Kitutu Masaba by-elections where they finished second and third respectively. "look at all of us and dismiss the noise makers. Let us look for a leader who will serve the entire country. So all i ever want is to work for you. That is all," said Kenneth while on a campaign train in Tharaka Nithi. "I do not want to be anybody's running mate. I want to work for Kenyans," said Kenneth.

A part from Kenneth, a host of other politicians have either declared their interests or are widely expected to contest. They are Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, Deputy PM Uhuru Kenyatta and Internal Security minister George Saitoti. The list also includes Foreign Affairs minister Moses Wetangula, Gichugu MP Martha Karua, Gachoka legislator Mutava Musyimi and former Mps Raphael Tuju and Paul Muite. For national security, Kenneth says his administration will prioritize increasing the number of police officers, equip the force with state-of-the-art communications and crime-fighting equipment and also invest in training and re-training of the officers. Kenneth has also promised to establish metropolitan police units in all the cities and computerize the police department to ensure easy tracking of criminals and their activities. “I will be tough on crime and tough on the causes of crime. I will drastically reduce crime throughout the country within the first three years of my administration,” he says in the blue print posted on his website page www.peterkenneth.com. For health care, the assistant minister says his administration will usher in national health insurance for all, and build or upgrade the existing health facilities in each of the 47 Counties to the level of a referral hospital in the next three years. He has also said he will set aside Sh 1 billion per County for building or upgrading the facilities in the first year and Sh 1 billion in the subsequent year for equipment.

On employment, Kenneth has said the administration will strive to sustain annual GDP growth rate of 10 percent hence creating more employment and self-employment opportunities. On education, enumerated include raising its budget and employing more teachers as well as advancing their skills. On food security, the assistant minister has enumerated among others increasing strategic food reserves, reduction of post-harvest losses and establishing a strategic food policy. As per the new constitution the the winner of the presidential race will be required to have more than half of all the votes cast and also at least twenty-five per cent of the votes cast in each of more than half of the counties. Planning assistant minister Peter Kenneth has released his campaign manifesto, becoming the first 2012 presidential aspirant to enumerate to the country what he will do if elected into State House. Kenneth has listed 13 sectors as his priority areas in case he ascends to presidency which includes national security, food security and employment. Other major issues are infrastructure, health care, education, tourism, slum upgrade, water, agriculture, diaspora, environment and manufacturing.

Premier League - Balotelli's £150,000 curry

Mario Balotelli enjoyed what is likely to prove the most expensive curry in history on Saturday night.  The Manchester City striker went for a midnight curry with friends at popular Indian restaurant Zouk less than 48 hours before the critical Premier League match against Chelsea. Staying out past one o'clock on Sunday morning meant Balotelli had broken managerRoberto Mancini's player curfew, and will land the 21-year-old a fine of a week's wages. That is a cool £150,000. Of course, you might be wondering how he got caught; after all, a quiet, late-night curry after a booze-free evening is unlikely to have caused much commotion on a Saturday night in Manchester city centre. Not for Balotelli, however: according to the Daily Star's account, the player and his friends decided to entertain their fellow diners by staging an impromptu mock sword fight, using rolling pins as pretend swords. As ever with the entertaining Italian, you simply couldn't make it up.

My work is not to greet VP — Ngilu

Water  minister Charity Ngilu has said that she will not greet Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka because he is not a good man. Ngilu said she does not have a duty to greet the VP and that she owes no one neither apology nor an explanation as to why she has chosen to snub Musyoka. Although Ngilu did not explain how the VP is a bad man, it is believed that the two fell apart from good in the light of recent corruption investigations in Ngilu's ministry and which she strongly believed were instigated by the VP.

UK investors due in Kenya Monday

Nairobi, Kenya, Dec 12 – A delegation of United Kingdom (UK) based private equity investors are set to tour Kenya to evaluate long term trade, development and investment opportunities in the local market. Undeterred by the prevailing economic climate, senior executives from Britain’s DVK Group which manage an Africa investment fund are expected in the country early on Monday for a series of high level exploratory meetings with top government officials as the organizations sets its eyes on Kenyan and surrounding countries opportunities. Speaking in Nairobi, DVK Group Tour Co-ordinator and also a Technical Co-operation Adviser with the Commonwealth Secretariat Julius Ndungu Kaberere confirmed that DVK Group’s Chairman Deepak Kuntawala, former British Trade and Industry Minister and House of Commons Deputy Leader Nigel Griffiths and DVK Group’s Africa Fund Advisor Cllr Marianne Alapini would be in the country to formally express the organizations trade interest at the proposed Konza Technopolis and other strategic partnerships.

During the visit, the DVK Group delegation will also hold exploratory meetings with leading private sector and business leaders alongside key players in the local Information Communication Technologies (ICT); agricultural sectors. The Group is involved in a major broadband project headed by Segan Thomas of TGT, which rolling out Broad Band throughout Africa, the multi million deal. The DVK Group has been invited by Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka who recently asked the group to visit Kenya during his recent working trip to the UK and Cyprus. They will also meet a number of Ministers and key Government officials. “The DVK Group through Funds under management is considering trade/ investment opportunities at Konza Technopolis, various Agricultural/ Infrastructural projects among other options as part of its commitment to pursue sustainable strategic partnerships in Africa,” Kaberere said. And added: “Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka’s recent visit to London could not have come at a better time as it was highly instrumental in marketing and placing Kenya high on the DVK Group’s strategic geographic region target.” With trading interests spread across China, South Africa, Ghana, Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates, the DVK Group is boutique finance house focused on private equity, structured trade/commodity finance products, commodity trading, international hedge funds, among other specialist finance solutions.

INTRODUCTION OF FEES FOR IMMIGRATION

APPEAL CASES FROM 19TH DECEMBER 2011

From 19th December 2011, The Ministry of Justice will be introducing appeal fee charges for some asylum and immigration appeals.

Anyone who wishes to appeal against a decision notice dated 19 December 2011 or later will need to pay a fee. The appeal fee will apply to most categories of visas and decisions. Any exemptions to the fees will be outlined by the Ministry of Justice. This will not affect any decision notices that are dated before 19 December.

From 19 December all appeals will be lodged at the tribunal in the UK. No appeals will be accepted at any overseas visa application centers.

More details contact Martynsrose Solicitors

Tel: 0208 538 1397, 07931 116 124

www.martynsrosesolicitors.co.uk

admin@martynsrose solicitors.co.uk

Capital Talk Rev Teresa Wairimu Part 1-4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QExPdcYsrx4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zI4YVg53GJs&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2WbeyMJIhA&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=amo0YL9uVn8&feature=related

This Happened To Me

Beware Of Artcaffe

On Saturday 10th December 2011 at 2.21pm, I met my Business Partner and Her friend at the Artcaffe in Junction Nakumatt Mall, Nairobi, Kenya. This was my first time to visit this establishment.

My Business Partner and I sat at a separate table from her friend as we were discussing our business.

After an hour, we paid for our drinks and snacks and left Artcaffe. We then went to the basement where I had packed my new Audi A4 to show them some handbags I had brought from London for my Business Partner. As they both looked at them (in my boot), 2 big burly men appeared from nowhere and asked us in very intimidating tones what we were doing. Before I could even answer those 2 KK Security men and a tall older looking Middle East man materialized. At this point I thought that we were either being car jacked or something was very wrong.

The 3 of us were shaken and wondering what was going on, I quickly explained that I was showing my 2 friends my new handbags. The Middle East man asked me to lock the boot and come aside. I did as he asked and my friends were standing on one side of the car and I was standing on the other with the Middle East man.  He explained to me that we were suspected of stealing a hand bag and laptop from Artcaffe and they had CCTV footage proving this.

When I looked at him in disbelief, and asked him if we could go and see the CCTV footage he agreed. At this point 5 more KK Security men appeared and we were frog marched all the way to the Artcaffe. When we got there I demanded to see the CCTV footage, the Middle East man again pulled me aside and told me that I was not a suspect and that it was my business partner’s friend who was. I told him that if that was the case I still wanted to see the footage and that I could not leave them.

After much confusion of whom had the footage, a short Middle East man accompanied by 2 Middle East women came with a laptop and the older tall Middle East man asked us to go to a handbag shop opposite Artcaffe to see the footage.  When we got there, they then refused to show us the footage and told us that we were free to go. The old Middle East Man explained that it was a case of mistaken identity and that the handbag and laptop (which belonged to a tourist) had been stolen on 5th of December 2011.(please note, the 3 of us were not even in Nairobi on this date).

I looked at the elderly Middle East man in disbelief and asked him if he was the owner of Artcaffe, of which he vehemently denied that he was NOT and that he was a shop owner at the Mall and that we was trying to ‘assist’ us and the Artcaffe solve this issue. At this point a crowd of people and more KK Security had gathered round us.

I then confirmed with him again if we were free to go as we were not the suspects and he categorical said YES!

Disgusted and tired of the whole ordeal I asked my friends we leave and file a complaint later for this harassment.

As we approached the main exit/entrance of the Junction Mall, 5 KK Security men, stopped us and told us we were still suspects and that we should wait for the police to come.

I could not believe this nonsense, a Commander appeared in a KK Security Car with 3 other Security guards and blocked the exit/entrance and surrounded us and told us that we could not leave. I explained to him what had transpired in the last 1hour.

He then told me that the Elderly Middle East man was actually the owner of Artcaffe and that he had told the KK Security that he did NOT want Kikuyus (a major tribe in Kenya) in his premises as they are thieves and that he was 99% sure my business partner and her friend resembled the suspects in the video footage.

At this point it dawned on me that my business partner and her friend were not dressed according to the Artcaffe standard and they did not fit the so called urban chic criteria that can afford a meal at the Artcaffe. And I had been left out as I looked the part and drove an Audi A4!

The most ironic thing is that my Business Partner owns a very big NGO in Kenya that is supported by very many affluent people including 10 businessmen whose businesses are listed on the New York Stock Exchange!

To cut the long horrible ordeal short, we waited for 1.30 Hours for the Police to come, the police saw the footage of which they said that it was so unclear that one could not see the faces of the thief that stole on the 5th of December 2011(Please note it was only 1 thief not 3!)

We went to the nearest Police station (Muthangari Police Station) and wrote statements (although the Police insisted I was not a suspect) but I insisted on doing one as I do NOT Trust Artcaffe. The reason is that if the Owner can Lie to us with a straight face what can he do if given the chance???

My friend I urge you to please boycott this establishment that harasses innocent Kenyans, Racist, Classist  and I strongly believe that we do not need foreigners (who we welcome with open hearts) to insight tribal HATRED in a Country that is only getting over the last Post Election Violence as we approach another Election.

Please pass this on.

By

Becky Karanja, a London resident.

WARNING: IMMIGRATION RULES CHANGES

Recently there have been numerous changes to immigration rules but very few people take notice or seek legal advice.

If you have pending application, or anyone wishing to submit an application or extend their visas  at the Home Office either asylum, Human Rights or outside the rules, Student, work Permit holder, PSW holder, any Tier Holder, domestic worker, marriage, spouse family applications, Criminal records take note of the following and seek legal advice without delay. Better safe than sorry.

• Asylum/pending application: With the government cuts on funding only limited cases are currently being funded, contact your legal representatives to find out if they are proceeding with your matter as they may have shelved it due to funding. Also with introduction of appeal fees from 19th December it may prove difficult for some applicants to fund their cases as they will no longer be legal aid for some cases.

• Student: There has been numerous changes to both college/university and student rules. A student may meet the requirements but a college may not meet the necessary requirements, hence colleges are shutting down right, left and centre. Watch out and keep an eye on your college especially if your visa is about to expire and your college is suspended or shut down. This is because; you may not be able to switch to another college or extend your visa. Should your college be suspended advisable to seek advice if you intend to travel for the holidays as unfortunately you may not be allowed into the UK. Also if your visa is due to expire; seek legal advice 4-5months as you may not meet the relevant requirements especially the mandatory English test requirements and funding. Its is important to note that unlike before when you could have appealed and submitted fresh evidence to court, you can no longer do that from May 2011. Hence, seek advice before completing your application as once an application is refused, you may never be able to appeal successfully as you cannot take fresh evidence to court. The cost of appeals includes fees.

• Work Permit holder & Tier 2: Numerous changes have been introduced in these categories. There is a minimum wage requirement and unfortunately if you don’t earn the minimum wage your visa will not be extended. There is also the mandatory English requirement. Most applicants have ignored the requirement and their visas have been refused automatically. Those working as Chefs and Teachers should be more careful and seek legal advice long before visas are due o expire. It’s unbelievable how applicants are finding themselves stranded whilst trying to extend their visas, if only they had taken advice. Also keep an eye on your employers if they are still licensed with Home Office and before your visa expires and also enquire if they have allocations for visa extensions as your employer may not have any allocations and/or may consider recruiting new graduate than extending your visa for a further term.

• Domestic worker: New changes are being introduced to the DW visa in private households. Those working as domestic workers should seek legal advice immediately.

•  New applications and extension of Visas: Those wishing to submit new application or extend their visas should note that they only have one bite of the cherry. If you make a mistake or fail to enclose documents, you will not be able to submit fresh evidence to court like before. Also from 19th December 2011 there will be fees for submitting appeals to the courts including legal fees. Unlike a few years ago when it was easy to complete applications and send them off, those days are long gone. Seek legal advice and save money and lots of stress.

• Family application, marriage etc: There are mandatory requirements for these applications be it in UK or outside UK. Seek legal advice before submitting applications to avoid paying unnecessary fees.

• Criminal Records: Those with ILR or British Passport holders for less than 5 years should note that if you are sentenced for 12 months or more the Secretary of State may cancel your leave and issue you with a deportation order. We also have children who are committing crimes from 14 years, it’s important for parents to note the problems they may have with their leave after the sentence especially those with ILR and over 18 years. Benefit fraud, drink driving, driving without insurance, handling stolen goods, etc could all change a persons or family’s life forever.

MERRY XMAS TO ALL FROM THE TEAM AT MARTYNSROSE SOLICITORS AND REMEMBER BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY.

More details: martynsrose Solicitors: 0208538 1397, 07931 116 124.

A KENYAN MAN IN UK DETAINED FOR FRAUD

Student publishing scam: Two men remanded over fraud

Two men have been charged over a £1m email scam which took money from the bank accounts of hundreds of students. Police said students on government loans were sent phishing emails urging them to provide their banking details. Damola Olatunji, 26, of Hamsterley Avenue, Manchester, and Amos Mwangi, 25, of Rochdale Way, Deptford, London, face a charge of conspiracy to defraud. They were remanded in custody until 17 February by Westminster Magistrates' Court, central London. Their next appearance is due to be at Southwark Crown Court in south-east London. Mr Olatunji is also charged with possession of an article for use in fraud. Further arrests  Five other people arrested in the investigation have been bailed until March pending further inquiries. They are a 25-year-old woman arrested in Manchester, a 49-year-old woman and a 31-year-old man held in Stratford, north-east London. Two men, aged 38 and 35, were also detained in Bolton, Greater Manchester. They were all arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to defraud and Computer Misuse Act and money-laundering offences and bailed until March. The Metropolitan Police's e-crime unit was first alerted to the scam in August and worked with the Student Loans Company, the banking industry and internet service providers during its investigation. Phishing is the sending of a legitimate-looking email in an attempt to gather personal and financial information from recipients.

Man rewands his donkeys on his graduation day

John Muiruri Mburu has come from far, and he knows this too well. On the day of his graduation, he knew the one thing that he owes his success is... wait a minute not his immediate family but his donkeys. Mburu has been assisted by his donkey to vend water within Naivasha Township. This has earned him enough to take himself to school and is now the proud holder of a diploma in Theology. To celebrate his achievements, he decided to take a ride around town with his beasts. His church members rode on the carts. This was the case of praising the bridge that carried him over. He is proud that his donkeys got the recognition Naivasha residents were all smiles as they milled the streets to congratulate the new graduate.

Mbo-I-Kamiti: Puzzle of murders in battle

for multi-billion shilling estates

 The "curse" of troubled Mbo-I-Kamiti Farmers Company continues after people believed to be hired thugs murdered chairman of the giant land buying firm. It followed the killings of other directors linked to the company in a chain of murders stretching back to 2000, with the police having zero success in arresting those behind. Even after the murders, the police remain helpless, and no arrests or convictions have been made since the killings began in 2000. The gangland-style murder of former company chairman, Stephen Waweru Njenga last month put him on a long and bloody list of former directors of Mbo-I-Kamiti who have been brutally killed in circumstances said to be linked to leadership rivalries, competition for control of assets and efforts to cover up fraud. The list includes lawyers and accountants. On November 17, Njenga was shot in broad daylight at close range, while on his way from his Githunguri home to Nairobi at about 9.00am. A saloon car blocked his vehicle before a man walked to his window and shot him three times, killing him on the spot. According to witnesses, people in the vehicle that blocked Njenga’s car yelled at him saying they had finally caught up with him before gunning him down. Police said nothing was stolen. Ironically, Njenga was himself a suspect in the killing a former director and treasurer of Mbo-I-Kamiti, Mr James Ngamau Machua, in January this year. A day before his death, Njenga attended the mention of the case in Nairobi where he denied murdering Ngamau. High Court judge Nicholas Ombija directed him to pay cash bail of Sh1 million to secure his release while awaiting trial. He was ordered to deposit a bond of Sh1 million and two sureties each of the same amount after he applied to be freed, which he did. Njenga had been complaining his life was in danger and even sought the help of police in vain. Even his wife, Jennifer Ngendo, said the murder did not come as a surprise since he had received death threats from unknown people. Njenga was among those who had filed a case at the High Court in Nairobi to block the sale of the firm’s property. Machua was shot dead as he waited to board a vehicle at the company’s Kabazi estate on January 5, 2010, Kiambu Mbo-I-Kamiti, created by former Mau Mau freedom fighters and detainees, and now controlled by their children and grandchildren, has known neither peace not profit, since its birth.

Mistrust

Not even the intervention by the Minister for Cooperative Development, Joseph Nyagah, has helped resolve the problem, which has led to mistrust among shareholders. Kiambu Officer Commanding Police Division (OCPD) Samuel Mukindia said investigations into the murder of Njenga are ongoing. "A murder file has been opened and so far about ten people have been questioned over the same. We are still investigating the incident and the past ones," he said. He said the murder of other former directors at the firm remain unsolved. Some now believe Mbo-I–Kamiti is a security threat, and the Government should intervene and compel the firm to subdivide its land and other assets among shareholders and their families, to end the bloodbath. Insiders say police officers dread cases related to Mbo-I-Kamiti because of the chilling manner in which the murderers kill their victims. Two victims, a man and woman were killed in front of their families by thugs who drove nails into their heads in their Kahawa Sukari and Juja residencies respectively in 2001. Police say the killings were linked to their stand in the sale of the company’s property. There are shareholders who want the property sold while another group is opposed. "Shareholder rights should be respected, but the endless fraud and bloodbath are hard to ignore, and call for an extraordinary intervention to end the misery visited on the ordinary shareholders. It is not without precedent. Retired President Moi intervened to end the management and leadership wrangles in former giant land buying companies like Gema Holdings and Ngwataniro Mutukanio," said Kikuyu Council of Elders Chairman, Mr Wachira Kiago.

Mr Ibrahim Mwathane, a Kenya Private Sector Alliance (Kepsa) expert on land matters and former chairman of the Institution of Surveyors of Kenya, says Mbo-I-Kamiti’s problems have overgrown the capacity of elected directors to contain, and the Government should intervene. "Mbo-I-Kamiti has grown into a hydra-headed monster whose internal leadership cannot control any more" he said. He cited a farm called Thika, off the Thika-Garissa Highway, just after 12thEngineers Battalion in Thika town that had similar challenges in the 1990s. At the time, the Government stepped in with a task force to oversee its subdivision and allocation of properties to members. It was chaired by the local provincial administration with the Co-operatives ministry as the secretariat. The task force also included members of the local leadership and respective technical officers at the district level. "The task force was able to keep off internal wrangles, review member registers, and take stock of assets which was land. A subdivision was proposed, approved, and implemented and members issued with individual plots that marked the end of bloody wars," said Mwathane. A regular commentator on land policy matters, Mwathane thinks the knotted Mbo-I-Kamiti problems can only be resolved with outside intervention. "I think Mbo-I-Kamiti is beyond handling by elected directors. The Government must step in and appoint a task force under the relevant Ministry," he said.

Changing fortunes The expansion of the ultra-modern road network passing through Central Kenya, including the Thika superhighway, and repossession and development of the Northern by-pass has changed the fortunes of landowners in the area. Indeed Mbo-I-Kamiti shareholders should ideally be celebrating as the Thika superhighway has converted its properties into some the most coveted prime real estate in the country: Its farms include Anmer and Kabazi on the outskirts of Kiambu town just on the border of the proposed the exclusive Tatu City housing development. Another controversial estate called Twiga Farm, located 5km from Ruiru town on the Thika superhighway is over 1,100 acres, but is also tied up by a court case. Company officials put the value of the farm at Sh2.5 billion, according to court records in the case. But shareholders and leaders of the firm have known nothing but bloodshed and intimidation since the company’s founding.

Last September, the chairman of the company, Dr Thuo Mathenge, was shot as he entered his compound in Tigoni, Limuru district in Kiambu County. Police said 16 spent cartridges were collected on the scene of the shooting in which Dr Mathenge was injured on the hip and on the legs. In the case of Njenga, he claimed his life was in danger and that people he believed were thugs raided his Kiambu home. Early last week, Gladys Waithera Kamau, another former chairman of controversial farming group claimed she had gone into hiding from her home in Lari district, also in Kiambu County, after "suspicious" people began asking for her whereabouts. The company, which controls a spread of multibillion shillings worth of prime land in the county is riddled with controversies as a large swathe of its former farmland in Kiambu comes under intense interest from high-end property developers. Njenga had said in a letter to the police that was attacked five times in the two months to November, claiming his assailants were people unhappy with his move to stop the sale of the company’s land. As for the late Machua, his is said to have been involved in a shares certificate verification exercise, which from time to time had been interrupted by confrontations between supporters of the current management and those of their predecessors. "A lot of people out there are unhappy with my various attempts to protect our company’s assets, but I won’t be cowed. I will soldier on and see to it that shareholders get a chance to enjoy fruits of their assets," Dr Mathenge said from his Nyeri home.

Rarely earned dividends

From a squabbling company in which shareholders rarely earned dividends going back to the 1990s, the recent expansion of Nairobi city driven by superhighways catapulted the company’s farms to some of the most prime real estate on the outskirts of Kenya’s capital city. But things might yet change for the better for the company. Last month, the company’s management led by Dr Mathenge, announced they had sold their Kiura estate to pay 1,000 workers’ two decades worth of salary arrears, and an Sh540 million National Bank of Kenya debt. According to the chairman, the clearance of the arrears and the bank loan had opened the way for the company to subdivide its land amongst its long-suffering shareholders. But it is noteworthy that the plan to dispose off some of the firm’s assets was the genesis of the bloodshed with some of the older directors strongly opposed to it. - The Standard.

Warning as storms set to move south England

Stormy conditions that brought havoc to Scotland are expected to return to other parts of the UK this week, forecasters said. Wind speeds up to 165mph were recorded during the worst of the storm that hit parts of Scotland and northern England, bringing down trees and power lines, causing disruption to roads and closing schools. As Scotland and northern England recovered from the wind damage, there were more warnings of storms further south - with forecasters saying wind speeds could reach 100mph later in the week. Strong winds are forecast to return to the UK in the next few days, but not at the force experienced last Thursday. The Met Office has issued yellow warnings for strong winds and heavy rain on Monday night for most of England, with the South East expected to be hit hard.

Windy weather is expected to continue into Tuesday, with the potential for "severe gales" or storm-force winds across Northern Ireland and the southern half of Britain. There could also be frequent, heavy showers, bringing the risk of surface water flooding. Aisling Creevey, a forecaster with MeteoGroup, the weather forecasting arm of the Press Association, said it was too early to tell where the winds would hit. She said the country could expect winds of between 80mph and 100mph. A Met Office spokesman said: "Strong winds on Monday evening have the potential to cause some disruption, especially in areas exposed to the south. In addition, rain will turn persistent and heavy, bringing the risk of surface water flooding over south-west England and Wales." Engineers are still battling to restore power to hundreds of homes in Scotland, as freezing temperatures hit. Scottish Hydro said huge efforts were made, particularly in Tayside and central areas of Scotland, to bring the number down from about 29,000 on Friday - and from about 105,000 at its peak.

OVERHEARD BY MR. SEED: "Sometimes you think you have a family problem but when you compare with other family problems you realise that your problems can only fit in a cup while others cannot fit in a bucket, sack, pickup and even others cannot fit in a lorry. You thank God and you go back to sleep." - Pastor Jane Njiiri

NTV Investigates: The price of belief - Part 1-3

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gt5CQ7JcG10&feature=relmfu

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MEgSrfMwd7s&feature=relmfu

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1DcqiKPOBE&feature=relmfu

Severe gale force winds batter the UK

Northern parts of Britain were hit by hurricane force winds of up to 151 mph after the first major spell of snow of the winter. Forecasters warned the public to take care and not to travel if necessary. Nearly all schools in Scotland were shut and bridges closed.

Landmine injures nine KDF soldiers - CLICK HERE

Four bodies found at property in Pudsey area of Leeds

Police investigating the deaths of four people whose bodies were found at a house in Leeds are waiting for the results of tests at the property. The detached house on Sheridan Way, Pudsey, has been sealed off while it is checked for the presence of harmful chemicals or gases. West Yorkshire Police said officers were called at about 17:30 GMT on Sunday after the bodies were found. Yorkshire Ambulance Service said the hazardous response team was dispatched. A West Yorkshire Police spokeswoman said: "At around 1730 GMT, police were called to a property in the Pudsey area of Leeds following the discovery of four bodies. "Inquiries are at an early stage and police have sealed off the area while the property is checked for any harmful chemicals or gases." A Yorkshire Ambulance Service spokeswoman confirmed crews had been called to an address in Pudsey. Fire crews also attended the incident, a spokeswoman for the West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Saitoti assures Kenyans of security during Christmas festivities - CLICK HERE

Bank to stop remittances to Kenya

At the beginning of every month, Ms Safia Ibrahim anxiously waits for a call that will offer her a lifeline.  Once it comes, she walks to a forex bureau near her home in Nairobi’s Eastleigh neighbourhood and comes out a few hundred dollars richer.  Thanks to her brother who works in the United States, Ms Ibrahim is able to pay rent, buy basic necessities and live a decent life.  This informal means of sending and receiving cash is known in Somali as hawala, a mostly unregulated money transfer system that traditionally involved neither physical nor electronic exchange of funds. It is used by many who do not have bank accounts and is often the only way to send money to war-torn Somalia.  But the call may not come next month for Ms Ibrahim and many others like her if a decision by a US bank to stop acting as the intermediary between hawalas comes into effect. Franklin Bank, which was the last US bank to do business with the Somali hawalas, said it would stop dealing with all of them by the end of December.  The bank, which is under the management of Sunrise Community Banks, said it feared some of the money transferred through this system could end up funding terrorist activities.

Since the September 11, 2001 attacks, hawalas in the United States, have been required to conduct monetary transactions through formal banks to avoid this possibility.  But recent events indicate that even this measure is not always effective. In October, two Somali women, Hawo Mohamed Hassan, 64, and Amina Farah Ali, 35, were convicted in a US court of collecting and funnelling money to Al-Shabaab fighters in Somalia, highlighting the risks inherent in the system and raising the issue among Somalis over how best to reverse the decision by the US bank while abiding by the law.  “I haven’t heard of this decision,” Ms Ibrahim said in an interview. “I don’t even know what to say. I hope they will be able to do something about it. A lot of people depend on it. The issue in Kenya is that hawalas here don’t operate under any regulatory framework, and there are no official estimates of amounts transferred.  Some observers claim that remittances to Kenya from the Somali diaspora sent through hawalas have fuelled the tempo of Somali investment in real estate, land, businesses and trade, especially in Eastleigh.  Sources close to the Central Bank of Kenya said discussions to formalise hawalas and regulate the transactions as soon as next year are ongoing.  This could mean a complete overhaul of the transfer system that could see the introduction of registration licenses and taxation procedures, they say.

 “The real issue here is that the hawalas are cheaper, more efficient, involve less bureaucracy and are quicker,” said Mr Muzhaf Hassan, who has extensively researched the hawala system.  He said if the government registered the hawalas, it would make the system more mainstream while creating a source of employment and revenue.  “Hawalas are registered in UK, US, and even Uganda and Rwanda,” Mr Hassan said. “With the right will and means, the hawalas will be like any other business.”  Franklin Bank’s decision to cease cooperation with the hawalas comes when southern Somalia has been facing severe food shortages.  This has led many in the diaspora to channel money through the hawalas to assist those hard hit by the drought that has spread throughout south-central Somalia, and much of East Africa.  In September, even the United States Agency for International Development used hawalas to deliver aid to hunger-stricken Somalis living in Al-Shabaab controlled areas.  The organisation distributed food vouchers to the drought victims who use them to buy food from traders who in turn exchange the vouchers for cash later on by using certain identified hawala contacts.  “In Somalia, we have had to really innovate how we do this work,” Mr Raj Shah, director of Usaid was quoted to as saying at the time.

WORD OF TODAY

Nehemiah 4:6

Be Passionate about it

Nehemiah 4:6 reads: “4 Hear us, our God, for we are despised. Turn their insults back on their own heads. Give them over as plunder in a land of captivity. 5 Do not cover up their guilt or blot out their sins from your sight, for they have thrown insults in the face of[b] the builders.  6 So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the people worked with all their heart.” Nehemiah rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem in less than two months. How did he do it? Passion! He gave up a high-profile job, overcame relentless opposition, and worked passionately. 'So we built the wall...for the people had a mind to work.'(Nehemiah 4:6 NKJV) But first we read: '...they said to me..."The wall of Jerusalem is also broken down, and its gates are burned with fire"...when I heard these words...I sat down and wept...' (Nehemiah 1:3-4 NKJV). Observe: 1) Passion is your first step to achievement. Your desire, not your IQ or your DNA, determines your destiny. The greater your desire, the greater your potential. 2) Passion will increase your willpower. Only when you want something badly enough will you pay the price to achieve it. God despises a lukewarm attitude, 'I wish you were either one or the other! (Revelation 3:15 NKJV). An indecisive person gets nowhere with Him, 'he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.'(James 1:8 NKJV). 3) Passion will change you. When your desires are in harmony with God's will and you follow them with a passion, you can't help but become a more productive person. 4) Passion will make the impossible, possible. Beware of 'experts.' Sometimes what they present as wisdom is just short-sightedness. 'There's no likelihood man can ever tap the power of the atom.' Jesus said, '...with God all things are possible' (Mark 10:27 NKJV). When you become passionate about God's purposes, He will show you what's possible.

I take this opportunity to invite you in our pray Conference Prayer every Morning from 6-7a.m. call this local number in UK Tel  02030042084 pin No.67299# and you will be able to join us for prayers. It is a free number with landline in UK.

Our Guest Singer today is  is Pamela Muleka from Kenya - CLICK HERE

TABIA MYAYA: Many of those who attended Jamhuri Day Celebrations hosted by the Kenya High Commission at Inter Continental Hotel London noticed that an elderly Kenyan man was busy eating while the Kenya National Anthem was being played. Je, huu ni ungwana?

Housing Finance to open shops

Housing Finance managing director Frank Ireri. Housing Finance plans to establish 100 sales and service centres across the country in the next five years to tap growth in the property business. The firm has established its first sales and service centre in Kitengela with plans underway to establish similar centres in Nairobi’s Metropolis and in the counties. Housing Finance, managing director, Mr Frank Ireri said the sales and service centres will tap the huge business potential in terms of deposits and mortgage sales. “The sales centers will be a one-stop-shop in property investments and collect deposits, through savings and investments accounts,” said Mr Ireri. Kitengela sales centre will offer mortgage and project financing, savings and deposit account and property sales among others.

"When I first started, it was really an innocent response to the needs of women in rural areas. When we started planting trees to meet their needs, there was nothing beyond that. I did not see all the issues that I have to come to deal with." - Professor Wangari Maathai

KENYA NEWS IN VIDEOS

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=21Ls4rbjE7M&feature=player_embedded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kS4uFY5XTBs&feature=player_embedded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fx88pERptZU&feature=player_embedded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJ9gMXTVHDw&feature=player_embedded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRPXJJ7wrIc&feature=player_embedded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RcEfo-KX1aA&feature=player_embedded

Severe gale force winds batter the UK

Northern parts of Britain were hit by hurricane force winds of up to 151 mph after the first major spell of snow of the winter. Forecasters warned the public to take care and not to travel if necessary. Nearly all schools in Scotland were shut and bridges closed

DO YOU KNOW?: 17 Officials has been sacked at the Adhi House, Nairobi for being a part of the land fraud in the ministry of lands

Benson Njau of (UK) have lost his father in Kenya

It's with humble acceptance of God that we announce the passing on to glory of Mr. Ephraim Kamotho Wambugu of Gilgil Kenya after short illness on Thursday 08th December 2011. Mr. Ephraim Kamotho was the son of Ibrahim Wambugu and the late Hannah Nyokabi Wambugu all from Mahiga, Munyange Othaya Nyeri District. Loving husband to Isabell Njeri Kamotho, Father to, Benson Njau (UK), Hannah Nyokabi (NBI) Samuel Wambugu (GILGIL). Brother to Charlers Muteru (NBI), Elizabeth Ngima (NBI), Peter Gichuki (NBI), Samuel Gachuru (NBI) Daniel Wangara (NBI) and Ruth Wambui (Ndemi). Funeral Arrangements and prayers will be done  TOMORROW SUNDAY 11th December 2011at ;

MOTOWN                                                           151, FELIXSTOWE ROAD,

GRAFTON STREET,               AND                     ENDIMONTON,

NORTHARPTON,                                                LONDON,                                 

NN1 2PL.                                                              N9 0DT.

Your prayers ,presence and financial contribution will be highly appreciated. Accounts Details, BEN, BANK   NATIONWIDE, S/C 07-02-46, A/C 18887986. For more information please contact BENSON 07961267214 or 07942861656. The burial takes place on Thursday 15th December 2011 at Malewa Lanching, Kangomongo Village, Nyandarwa Kenya. In God's hands he rests, but he lives forever in our hearts till we meet again.

Mgaagaa na Upwa: Mhudumu Chumba cha Maiti - CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

"I AM GOING FOR PRESIDENTIAL SEAT IN KENYA"

Dr. Da'Gitau aka Rev. James Kamau Nadman Gitau is going for a Presidential Seat in Kenya in 2012. "Where have you been Mr. Seed, I have been looking for you. I have not seen you since I declared that I am going for the Presidential Seat in Kenya in 2012. I have done all the ground work and soon I am going to launch my manifesto. I am serious Mr. Seed and I am popular down there you know." Rev. Gitau explained during the Jamhuri celebrations in London where Mr. John Gaitho (far right) came closer to confirm the news. He contested for a MP seat in UK during the last elections. Who is this man? Where is he from? What has he been doing before.? Why does he always wear a red scarf? What about this long name? All this information coming soon. Keep surfing.

Truth Meter: Irreconcilable Differences - CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

Former footballer Ben Gachie in UK has lost his sister in Kenya

It is with humble acceptance of God’s will that we announce the passing on of our dear sister Elizabeth W. Benson (N.C.C), after a short battle with cancer. Daughter of the late Benson  Mungai and Pauline Mungai. She is mother to Benson Mungai (barthez), Pauline Muthoni (Moni), Vivian mnyazi (Vish) and Grace Sidi. Sister to Jane Nderitu, Ben Gachie (UK), Michael Kariuki, Jackline Wambui, Anthony Kuria (UK) and David Nyoike. Niece to Milka Wanjiru, David Nyoike (Senegal)and Joseph Murigi. Cousin to Matthew Kimoni (KRA), Beth Makenji, Beth Wairimu among others.  Aunt to Nick, Jeff, Randy, Derrick, Sharlene, Joy,  Mengo among others. Grandmother to Natalia, Kourtney, Melanie & Ttrickell  (kako).  Family and friends are meeting daily from 5pm at her residence in Hamza for prayers. Funeral arrangements are ongoing  every evening from 5:30pm,at Magomano hotel. The cortege will leave Montezuma Funeral home on Wednesday,14th  Dec 2011,  for burial at her father’s  farm  in Gatitu in Kandara division. A financial contribution will be highly appreciated. Please pay into this account.  Nationwide (UK).  Name Mr. B G Mungai.  Account No:  34379654. Sort code: 074456. 

KENYA & TANZANIA INDEPENDENCE PARTY SATURDAY

10TH DEC AT TRIPPLE EM FOODS LUTON

BRITAIN VETOES THE NEW EUROPEAN UNION TREATY

Prime Minister David Cameron has insisted that Britain will maintain influence in the European Union after his decision to veto a new treaty designed to stabilise the single currency. Mr Cameron was facing isolation in Europe as all 26 of the other EU member states agreed to go ahead with a separate accord on a "fiscal compact" for the euro. Mr Cameron's deployment of the veto after 10 hours of fraught negotiation in Brussels was hailed by jubilant Tory eurosceptics, some of whom made clear that they regard it as the first step towards a looser relationship with the EU, or even outright withdrawal. However, he was lambasted by Labour leader Ed Miliband, who said Mr Cameron had "spectacularly" mishandled the negotiations.  Mr Cameron said that he believes membership of the 27-nation bloc is still good for the UK, telling reporters at the European Council summit in Brussels: "The membership is in our interests and I've always said if that's the case I'll support our membership. Membership of the European Union is good for us." He dismissed suggestions that the UK would be isolated, as the other 26 nations conduct discussions without a British representative at the table, saying: "Britain's influence in the EU will be maintained. "Europe has many rooms. I think Britain should feel the Europe we want has got the flexibility of a network. "You've got to form alliances in Europe for the things you want to get done. I don't think anything that happened last night will change that, in fact it was relatively, there was obviously fundamental disagreement - a situation where Britain had to say it couldn't go ahead with this treaty - but it was done in a very good natured way." Mr Cameron said it would take "some time" for the other 26 states to implement their inter-governmental treaty. And, in a sign of possible future conflict on the prickly issue of whether the European Commission facilities can be used to support the new agreement, he insisted that Britain would "make sure that the role of the institutions is properly respected".

48TH JAMHURI DAY CELEBRATIONS IN LONDON

On left Kenya High Commissioner welcoming HE Dr. Carl B. W. Roberts, the High Commissioner for Antigua and Barbuba at the Jamhuri celebrations and on right High Commissioner and his wife Mrs. Jane Ngare posing with Paul Farquharson O.P.M. the High Commissioner of Bahamas.

HE Ephraim Ngare and his wife Mrs. Jane Ngare joined other Kenyans to celebrate the 48th Jamhuri Day in UK on Friday 9th December, 2011 where hosted a luncheon for diplomatic corps as well as Kenyans. The celebrations took place at London Hotel Inter Continental, Park Lane. High Commissioner, Ambassadors, businessmen as well invited guests joined the celebrations where the High Commissioner delivered a speech followed by a dinner. During his speech, the High Commissioner thanked all the guests for joining to celebrate the 48th Jamhuri Day where he explained that this is the single most important day in our National Calendar of events because it reminds us of the momentous day in 1963, when Kenya attained her independence.

Colonel Nderitu the Military Attache at the Kenya High Commission London saluting as the Kenya National Anthem was being played while a Kenya businessman Mr. Girish Raval and his wife (right) dressed in Kenya colours joined the salute.

He continues to explain that it is also a day we take stock of the state of our Nation, and prospects for the future. Since 1963 to date, Kenya have realized tremendous achievements as a country in several of our socio-economic sectors, such as the fight against poverty, ignorance and disease. Other achievements realised includes expansion in rural electrification, energy sector, expansion in our tourism facilities, ICT Sector with three fibre optic cables wiring the whole country, expansion in irrigation projects in our arid and semi arid areas, improvements in the agricultural sector, manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade, business processing Outsourcing (BOP) and final services. More later.

Kenya High Commissioner in teh UK HE Ephraim Ngare addressing the guests at the Jamhuri celebrations

Kweli Wakenya na Pombe!!

Mafuriko kitu gani? lete fombe ama tuje tujishukurie! Nîkîî wee?

Mara ile ingine walizima stima, sasa wamemwaga maji. Hata ndani ya maji tutakunywa!

Britain's new isolation centres on the City of London

Britain's new isolation centres on the City of London. The UK alone accounts for more than half of the EU's financial services industry, so it would have been hit disproportionately by any European curbs on its activities. As Mr Cameron put it at a 6am news conference after the break up of all-night negotiations: "If I couldn't get adequate safeguards, I wouldn't agree (to it)… this (fiscal compact) is not in Britain's interests." French President Nicolas Sarkozy, who faces a re-election battle in May next year, was quick to point the finger of blame at perfidious Albion, insisting the UK could not be "an exception", and had to be put aside if it would not comply with the new agreement.

Britain blocks EU treaty change: reaction

As Britain blocks EU treaty changes aimed at resolving the eurozone debt crisis by increasing central control over the tax and spending powers of euro nations, here are the reactions of the main politicians and the financial markets.

Prime Minister David Cameron

What was on offer was not in Britain's interest ... so I didn't sign up to it.  Britain's interest in the European Union, keeping markets open, free trade, selling our good and services with rules over which we have a major say, all those things are protected, they don't change.  But this new round of integration and special powers and surrenders of sovereignty for European countries and others that what to join the euro, they will be carried on outside the EU treaty. So we will not be presenting this treaty when it is agreed to our Parliament. It will not involve Britain.

Nicolas Sarkozy, French President

It’s the British opt-out of the euro that creates a two-speed Europe (Chicago Options: You can’t choose to stay out of the euro, and then complain you are being kept out.

Angela Merkel, German Chancellor

The British were never part of the euro, they had an opt out from the beginning, so we are familiar with the situation. We have started Schengen with a number of states and we have said in the text adopted yesterday that if the situation arises in which we can take it up in the treaties with all, as we have done with Schengen, then we will do it as soon as possible.  ...David Cameron was at the negotiating table with us, we made this decision. We couldn't make a lousy compromise for the euro but we had to set up hard rules. ... that won't deter Europe from making joint decisions in many other questions for example when welcoming Croatia as our new member.

Jose Manuel Barroso, European Commission president

Those that have today approved this new fiscal compact have stated that they want to put it as soon as possible into a new fully-fledged treaty, after revision of the current treaties.  Having seen it was not possible to get unanimity, it was the proper decision to go ahead at least with those ready to commit immediately. That includes all 17 in the eurozone, plus some who are not in the euro area but want to take part in this fiscal compact.

Bill Cash, Conservative MP

The Germans and the French precipitated this with their demands, throwing down the gauntlet and saying we had to do what they wanted.  Now, David Cameron quite rightly has said 'no, we are not going to do that'.  There is a real question, however, about the way in which we go forward from here. It has to be fundamental renegotiation of our relationship, it is implicit in the path that has been set. This is a historic moment for Europe.

Mark Reckless, Conservative MP

The Prime Minister has been as good as his word. He said he would not agree to a new treaty unless he was able to safeguard the interests of the City. The other EU countries would not agree to safeguard the interests of the City and therefore David Cameron has said no.  I think this is a very significant change. All of us will need time to see how the institutions of Europe are going to move forward.  Nicolas Sarkozy was talking about a re-founding of the European Union. Now we see that is happening among between 23 and 26 countries and we are remaining outside that. That now gives us the opportunity to negotiate a new relationship with the European Union that is in our interests.

Douglas Alexander, Shadow Foreign Secretary

David Cameron's isolation is a sign of weakness not of strength.  Britain this morning is more isolated than at any point in the 35 years of British membership of Europe.  It is not in Britain's national interest for decisions to be taken without us even at the table and it's a direct result of David Cameron spending more time negotiating with his own backbenchers than with our European partners.

David Mackie, JP Morgan:

As we looked ahead to this week, we argued that it would be a big deal but not a grand bargain. This seems the right assessment of what has been delivered yesterday and today: the ECB has stepped in with more liquidity support for banks; we have some more clarity on the construction of a liquidity hospital for Italy; and we have a very modest step forward on the journey to a fiscal union (certainly not a quantum leap).  We were always a bit skeptical about the idea of a simple quid pro quo between the monetary and fiscal authorities, and this week ECB president Draghi poured cold water on the idea that certain action by the fiscal authorities would be automatically followed by a big explicit step up by the monetary authorities.  However, we continue to believe that the ECB’s support in sovereign secondary markets will remain implicit and will depend more on market conditions than on what the fiscal authorities say.

Trevor Greetham, director of asset allocation, Fidelity Worldwide Investment

We have another euro agreement but one that misses the point. What is going on in the euro area is not a crisis of government profligacy. It is a balance of payments crisis of a fixed exchange rate regime.  Moves to enshrine balanced budgets in national constitutions are fair weather policies not able to deal with current imbalances, which again were not primarily related to government spending but to a lack of competitiveness.  We will see more bursts of ECB intervention in sovereign bond markets and more aggressive policies to support banks, so rallies from depressed sentiment levels will occur.  What we would need to see to end the crisis once and for all is full burden sharing - with clear and unconditional ECB support the first step - and forceful policies that inflate the core rather than deflate the periphery.

Steven Barrow, Standard Bank

We do not believe that the summit has failed in the sense that leaders have come away without any agreement whatsoever, leaving S&P no choice but to downgrade the whole region and the markets no choice but to pummel euro zone bonds and the euro into the dust. But ‘success’ is relative in our view, ’success’ actually means ’failure’. We say this because EU leaders have misidentified the causes of the crisis. German leader Merkel essentially said yesterday that the crisis has come about because governments did not respect the Stability Pact, which was meant to enshrine good budget practice in the region.  This is why the gist of this summit is to resurrect the Stability Pact, but this time make things like balanced budget targets and automatic sanctions for transgressors a treaty requirement and not just some pipe dream. In our view this crisis is not actually about poor budgetary discipline.  The reason the euro zone has a debt crisis is because it lacks the transfer mechanisms that compensate for the fact that national policymakers can no longer run an independent monetary and currency policy. And bailouts don’t substitute for proper transfer systems.

JOE CATERING SERVICES (EXCELLENCE & TASTE)

Have it your way!!

For your wedding, birthday, graduation, Christmas parties or any other special occasions, contact Joe on 07508018091. We will work with you to ensure your event meets your need but exceeds your expectations. We also do chapos and mandazis for your household or any other occasion.

TANZANIAN SINGER PROFESSOR JAY AT THE JAMHURI IN LONDON

Popular Tanzanian Singer Professor Jay was caught at Jamhuri Day celebrations in London on Friday 9th December, 2011. He was heading for the Tanzanian 50th Independence Celebrations in London on Saturday 10th December, 2011. With him a London based journalist Ayub Mzee (See below). - CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

TANZANIA 50TH INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATIONN UK,

SATURDAY 10TH DECEMBER 2011!!!!

SATURDAY 10th DEC 2011 8PM-5AM!!

@THE PULSE NIGHTCLUB No 1 Invicta Plaza, South Bank, London SE1 9UF

OFFICIAL TANZANIA INDEPENDENCE UK 2011 PROMO VIDEO FEAT PROFESSOR JAY!! (click pic to play)

Tickets: STANDARD £20 or VIP £35 MORE ON THE DOOR!!

Tickets Available at tanzania50th@mail.com or Tel: 07950 114 160

CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

Look At This Picture…..Cry….And Pray

For Our Policemen and Women

Shot Dead: Policeman, Shot By Gangsters In Mombasa, Thursday 8th December 2011. This policeman won’t be home for Christmas. This brave cop, won’t kiss his baby goodnight, no more. This cop, even in death, vowed not to let his gun fall into the wrong hands…he died clutching it. He died protecting you and me. The policeman was shot dead by gangsters in Mombasa’s Bondeni area. And as we all get ready to celebrate and make merry this festive season, remember the people who are out there in the streets…making the streets safer for you and me. Let’s remember the men and women in uniform, who leave their families and risk their lives protecting us. - Mombasa411.

SERENGETI FREIGHT FORWARDERS

WAZEE WA KAZI

BREAKING NEWS! - AS WE PROMISED!

AIR CARGO TO EAST AFRICA

       £1.60 P/KG (SPECIAL OFFER)

OUR PRICESS FROM TILBURY 

SALOON CARS TO DAR/MOMBASA FROM £720

4X4 CARS TO DAR/MOMBASA FROM £800

NEXT VESSEL SAILS 22/12/2011 CUT OFF 16/11/2011

OUR PRICESS FROM SHEERNESS

SALOON CARS TO DAR/MOMBASA FROM £700

4X4 CARS TO DAR/MOMBASA FROM £780

NEXT VESSEL SAILS ON 22/12/2011 CUT OFF 16/12/2011

BEI ZETU TUNAZIANIKA HADHARANI

 NA HAZINA KIGUGUMIZI

BEI TULIYOKUPA NDIO UTAKAYOLIPA!

HAPPY JAMHURI DAY KENYA!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TANZANIA!

Contact us for more info;

CHRIS LUKOSI 07903828119 

SIMON LOUIS (MOHSIN) 07950689243

BRIAN (BABA NJOROGE) 07795160757

HASSAN (RICHARD) 07405159255

HQ -  UNIT 92 THAMES INDUSTRIAL PARK, PRINCESS MARGARET ROAD, EAST TILBURY, RM18 8RH

email: info@serengetifreight.co.uk or serengetifreight@yahoo.co.uk

Tell (+44) 01375 855917  Fax (+44) 01708202477

www.serengetifreight.co.uk

Villagers ignore the law and go on a girl circumcision frenzy

Girls are congratulated and decorated after undergoing the rites of initiation called Esaro as friends and relatives join in the celebrations. The sound of gun shots pierced the air as seemingly intoxicated youth joined girls and women in wild celebration. The killer virus, HIV, is also readily transmitted this way. Tradition had triumphed over law as hundreds of girls, some as young as eight years old faced the knife in a procedure that is internationally loathed and outlawed — female genital mutilation. The setting is Kuria East and West districts. It’s is the third year since the last rite, and so a fresh set of girls are supposed to undergo the FGM among the Bugambe and the Buiregi clans. Tuesday was the culmination of three days of activities that saw the villagers throng footpaths in wild celebration, armed with home made guns, machetes, spears, knives, clubs and other weapons that would ordinarily have their wielders jailed. Hundreds of schoolgirls underwent the traditional rite of passage that now allows them to get married, raising doubts as to whether they will continue with their studies in the New Year. Among the health concerns associated with the practice are complications during childbirth, heavy bleeding after birth and prolonged hospitalisation, with the degree of complications increasing depending on the extent and severity of the mutilation that can also cause infections and death. - Daily Nation.

10 uses for a lemon around the home

The acidity of lemons means that they're packed full of cleaning power, with the added advantage that they're free from the chemicals contained in most household cleaning products. So next time you experience one of the following household emergencies, make the fruit bowl your first port of call!

Problem pans

Clean queens Kim and Aggie suggest using lemons to clean copper and brass. Simply take half a lemon, dip it in some salt and get rubbing! The acid within the lemon dissolves the tarnish whilst the salt scrubs away tougher stains.

Wooden wonder

Lemon juice can work wonders on wood – Martha Stewart is just one advocate of this technique. In fact, many commercial wood polishes contain something called d-limonene, which is extracted from lemons and is especially effective at dissolving grease, so it's ideal for wiping away fingerprints and other oily stains. Simply make up a solution of two parts olive oil and one part lemon juice, then dab a rag into the liquid and get polishing. If it's good enough for Martha, it's certainly good enough for us!

Skin saver

Suffering from dry patches on your elbows? Simply take half a lemon, sprinkle on some baking soda and twist your elbow into the lemon – as if you were juicing it. Give your elbow a quick rinse and hey presto - super soft skin! Incidentally, rubbing a slice of lemon on your hands after preparing heavily scented foods such as curry, garlic, fish or onion will neutralise odours, whilst the vitamin C will help to soften skin.

Dirty dishes?

If you're cutting up a lemon, don't throw the leftover sections away – place them in the dishwasher to give your crockery extra shine and banish any nasty niffs. The astringent qualities of lemon also help to cut through grease, which is why it's the main ingredient in so many washing up liquids.

Messy microwaves

The average microwave can quickly take on a resemblance to some kind of crime scene if left neglected. To help loosen burnt-on stains, place a chopped lemon in a bowl of hot water and switch the microwave onto full power for three minutes. Afterwards, you'll be able to wipe away those hard-to-remove stains with ease, and your microwave will smell pretty fab, too!

Stained shoes

All out of shoe polish? Kim and Aggie suggest using the pithy side of a lemon to shine black and dark brown shoes. We reckon the citrus scent will work wonders when it comes to masking sweaty foot odour, too.

Rust removal

Rust stains can be a nightmare to remove, but when it comes to rust marks on clothing, a slice of lemon might just save the day. Simply rub the stain with a lemon slice before washing as usual.

Ant eliminator

Insects hate the acid within lemon peel, so if you're suffering from a creepy crawly infestation, a few strips could be just the thing to keep bugs at bay – simply place a few strips of lemon peel near the area in question. The secret of this tip lies in the presence of d-limonene with the peel, which is a natural insect repellent.

Bacteria buster

Lemon juice has anti bacterial properties, which means it's an ideal disinfectant. Rubbing a slice of lemon on a chopping board won't just help get rid of bacteria but will also fade patches of discolouration and neutralise strong smells. It can also work wonders on graters and other hard-to-clean kitchen utensils.

Lemon and lime scale

The citric acid in lemons can help break down lime scale deposits – use a slice of lemon to wipe down bathroom taps or for a deeper clean, use a piece of string to hold a couple of slices of lemon around the base of your taps and remove after an hour, then wipe down for super shiny taps.

Nyoike: Fuel Prices in Kenya set to drop next week

Government says that fuel prices will drop by between Sh3 to sh5 next week when the Energy regulatory Commission (ERC) releases new monthly rates.  According to a statement from the Energy PS, Patrick Nyoike, the ERC is finalizing the computation of the pump prices and the prices will go down by December 15, 2011.  He also noted that the supply of super petrol, diesel and kerosene was interrupted following vandalism of the Mombasa -Nairobi power line but assured the general public that normal supply has resumed. ‘The Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) have since reinstated the power supply to the pump stations. "Nyoike said  The PS also explained that for safety reasons loading of super petrol at KPC Nairobi terminal was suspended for two days following a spillage at one of the private depots in Nairobi. This interrupted normal supply of super petrol thus causing further shortage. "KPC has normalized the operations and is currently building stocks to cater for the increasing demand over the festive season. Currently there are five ships with all grades of products at the port of Mombasa waiting to discharge." Nyoike  Liquid Petroleum Gas, (LPG) is also reported to be out of stock, a situation that has forced prices to hike to as much as 4,000 shillings for a 12 kilogram gas cylinder. The Ps assured Kenyans that the shortage is expected to ease once a ship carrying 2500 metric tones of LPG completes its discharge at the port of Mombasa. According to the Ps another ship carrying 1700 metric tones of LPG is waiting to discharge. A Fuel shortage has been reported in many parts of the country with petrol stations having run out of stock of the commodity.  Nairobi was the hardest hit with prices of Kerosene going up to Shs95 per litre up from Shs87 shillings last week. Petrol station attendants said they started experiencing the shortage early this week.  On Tuesday, COTU Secretary General, Francis Atwoli had protested the high prices asking the government to address the problem urgently. He was with Dickson Mbugua of Matatu Owners Association who said the fuel prices had become unbearable

KENYA NEWS IN VIDEOS

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jcJEiSV8OgU&feature=channel_video_title

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0qtsleRCC-A&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jtOE2PBvJrA&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D07QMnoDl7c&feature=player_embedded

WORD OF TODAY

Jeremiah 1:8

Overcoming your fear of people

Jeremiah 1:8 explains: "Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the LORD." Another sub- -personality type contributing to our fear of people is called 'The Critic.' It's that part of you which constantly judges your own behaviour, compares you unfavourably with others, points out your flaws and reminds you you're a failure. Its favourite self-talk expressions are, 'You're stupid; can't you ever get it right? Look how capable so-and-so is. How come you can't be like them?' While 'the worrier' suffers from anxiety, 'the critic' suffers from low self-worth. What's the answer? Learn to replace your critic self-talk with, 'They're what God made them; I'm what God made me, and I accept myself as His unique creation. I make mistakes, but I'm not a mistake. With God's grace, I'm working on being the lovable, capable person God made me.' 'The Victim' is another sub-personality type underlying our fears. It's that part of us which feels helpless or hopeless, believes we're inherently inadequate and unworthy, sees insurmountable obstacles in our path, and bemoans the way things are. Its favourite self-talk expressions include, 'I can't...It's useless. I'll never be able to. Why even bother?' Replace your victim self-talk with, 'I don't have to be perfect now. I'm a new creature in Christ and I'm growing a little more each day. I choose to see the glass half-full rather than half-empty. Since God says I can, I choose to believe I can; and I will in His time and way.' Face your fears. Do what you've been afraid to do. God's promise, '...I am with thee...' (Jeremiah 1:19 KJV), was all Jeremiah needed and it's all you need too. Remember President Oboma of America believed in himself while many were telling him you cannot because you are black and he came up fighting and saying "Yes, We Can."

I take this opportunity to invite you in our pray Conference Prayer every Morning from 6-7a.m. call this local number in UK Tel  02030042084 pin No.67299# and you will be able to join us for prayers. It is a free number with landline in UK.

Our Guest Singer today is is Evangelist  Philip Rono Laal from the Republic of Kenya - CLICK HERE

Legal Aid in UK is over

Legal Aid in UK for Home Office cases have been abolished and the only  eligible are those in Article 3 Claims and Domestic Violence. This is a huge blow to many who cannot afford to pay for their lawyers. It is advisable you consult your lawyer as many lawyers have kept their aid files aside.

WINTER WEATHER IS HERE WITH US

High waves batter the coastline at Helensburgh, Scotland, as the country braced itself for hurricane-force winds. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Thursday December 8, 2011. Winds of up to 100mph have been forecast, with the strongest gusts expected to hit the west of Scotland and the central belt from 12pm, and from 3pm in the east, hitting rush-hour traffic. See PA story WEATHER Snow.

Rough seas batter the coastal flood defences as a woman walks her dog in Blackpool, north-west England, on December 8, 2011. Scotland closed schools and travellers were warned to expect disruption on key routes on December 8 due to gale-force winds, as Britain's first major winter storm of the season swept in. Although Scotland was set to bear the brunt of the bad weather, strong winds were also expected in parts of England.

WEDDING THE INDIAN STYLE

A colourful wedding took place in Kenya in October this year between Miss Joyce Waitherero Thuku Muracia and Mr. Simon Nguru Wandeto in a Indian style where the couple, maids and men dressed in an Indian style. The wedding took place at Pentecostal Church, Karen, Nairobi. The bride is a daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Joel Thuku Muracia (centre top right photo) of Kinyona, Kigumo, Muranga and a relative of the Seed's family. The reception took place in a tent next to the church. A time keeping wedding.   10.00 a.m. the wedding ceremony started  ending up at 11.30 a.m. 12.00 noon were in the tent eating and by 2.30 we had given our gifts and by 4.00 p.m. the ceremony was over. Some guests as usual arrived late at 4.30 p.m., others at 5.00 p.m. and even some coming from Oxford came as late as 6.00 p.m. and found the game was over. One friend of mine whom we had agreed to meet at the wedding was calling me at 5.30 p.m. asking me where I am because there is nobody at the wedding venue. I explained to him that the wedding was over and I was in Murang'a. Keep time when attending ceremony as we are now on 21st century.

Maids (left) and men dressed in an Indian style

Power Breakfast Interview : Doctors Strike - PART 1-4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y8YJfQLnGNs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&v=fBKwGMoYj2A&feature=endscreen

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVkLQG5E3IU&feature=related

Concrete Block Victim 'Inches From Death' on A12

The husband of a woman left with a smashed face and broken ribs after a concrete block was dropped onto their car has said she was inches from death. Carol and Steve Manley were on their way home from visiting friends when the bucket-shaped missile slammed onto the roof with a bang and broke through the windscreen. The block had been thrown from West Hanningfield Bridge over the A12, near Chelmsford, at 10.05pm on Thursday evening. Speaking at a news conference, Mr Manley, 56, said: "My wife was covered in blood. There was a concrete block on her chest and lap. My first reaction was to try to get it off." He added: "I just did not give a thought as to where it had come from - I just wanted to check that Carol was okay. "I did not get to speak to her properly until we got to the hospital, that is when we realised that, had the lump of concrete been six inches over, I would have been planning my wife's funeral."

Body of a Kenyan Teen Reported Missing in Australia Found on a Beach

The body of a missing Kenyan orphan is believed to have been found on a beach on the New South Wales far north coast. Samuel Macharia, 16, failed to return home from an afternoon run and swim at Cabarita beach on Sunday 4th December, 2011. Police were contacted later that night after family members discovered a backpack containing Samuel's clothes and mobile phone on the beach. A teenage boy's body was found on the beach at Cabarita, just north of Salt, about 6.15am (AEDT) today. "The body is yet to be formally identified but we do believe it to be that of a Kenyan teenager reported missing earlier in the week," a police spokeswoman said. Samuel, a student from Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School in Tweed Heads, came to Australia in 2007 on a cultural exchange program after being discovered playing soccer in the slums of Nairobi. He was just three days away from his Year 10 graduation. A report is being prepared for the coroner.

Source:http://www.news.com.au/breaking-news/body-of-missing-kenyan-teen-samuel-macharia-found-in-nsw/story-e6frfku0-1226216963921

Related Article:Kenyan Soccer Star Reported Missing in Australia

Police officer clings to car bonnet in 5km chase

An illegal taxi driver in China's Sichuan province hit a police officer and sped around the city with him hanging on to the bonnet for 5km (3.1miles).The police had tried to stop the driver for a routine inspection, but Ma Jian, who already had 10 previous violations and was operating an illegal taxi, refused to permit the inspection and sped away from the police. The police said the car reached speeds of up to 150kph (94 mph). He was finally stopped and the officer, Huang Teng, fell unconscious. - VIDEO

Top 10 Things Men Do To Destroy Their Marriage

While both husband and wife should take responsibility for their part in a marriage, below

are ten mistakes common to men, which can completely destroy a marriage

1. Leaving her alone in the marriage: One of the quickest ways to destroy your marriage is to leave yourwife alone. Spend long hours at work, followed by a beer afterward with the guys. When you get home, don’t engage her or your children. Lose yourself in baseball or computer poker. On the weekends, complain about the messy house, then leave to run errands. Don’t come back for several hours. The most miserable thing for a wife is when you isolate her by emotionally leaving the relationship. Yes, she has friends, and a job. Yes, she spends a lot of time running the kids around. It’s not the same. Her desire is to spend time with you, the man she loves. To be left alone by her husband causes deep heartache for women. For most women, their largest fears boil down to isolation and deprivation. When she feels abandoned by you, she attacks with hurtful and disrespectful behavior. Her ability to verbally hurt you is her strongest weapon, and she uses it out of fear, trying to get your attention.

2. Not getting too close: You wife feels energized when she feels close to you. Refusing to let her know you is destructive to your marriage. While you strive to keep your independence, she longs to connect with you. It is not fair to either of you if you are only affectionate and attentive on the days you want sex. Affection and closeness ought to be an end in themselves, not a means to a different end. Talking is not the only way women feel close, although it is an important one. Simple ways to fulfill your wife in this area are to hug her often. Hold her hand. Spend some time alone with her. When her need for closeness is met, she will be more inclined to respect your need for independence.

2 1/2. Closing yourself off to her: Women exist as an integrated circuit. Mind, body and soul are closely linked so that hurt feelings affect the entire system. A wife whose spirit is crushed may suffer from fatigue and confusion. Like a strand of Christmas lights, when one light goes out, they all go dark. Men compartmentalize. If one Christmas light goes out on his strand, all the other lights function properly, unaffected. Men are able to fully function when one area of their lives is not working properly. Your wife does not understand the closed off, mysterious way you operate. Things don’t seem to bother you. You never want to talk to her. She knows you are stressed about work, but you don’t show it. She wonders how you can even function. Your wife is not trying to pry or sneak her way into no-mans land. She simply wants you to be open. She wants to “see” you. She feels loved when you share your fears, worries and troubles. She won’t try to fix you. She will listen.

3. Always trying to fix her: Even when she doesn’t always say it, your wife sees you as her strength; the bearer of her burdens. When she comes to you to off load the weight of her world, it is a compliment. She knows you can handle it. Rather than try to resolve and repair every issue, try to just listen to her. You might even ask if she needs a solution or just an ear. It will be a relief for both of you when you realize that sometimes you don’t have to fix all the problems. And when you listen, she will feel like you understand her (even if you don’t!).

4. Never say, “I’m sorry.”: All marriages have conflict. The refusal to apologize is a quick way to destroy yours. While conflict is not a pleasant thing, growth and closeness can increase as conflict is resolved. For your wife, an apology means she has moved forward, through the conflict and is now seeking peace. Manyhusbands see apologizing as a sure sign of weakness. They think, “If I apologize, she won’t respect me.” On the contrary, if you humbly apologize and ask her forgiveness, your wife will be putty in your hands. Your small act of contrition soothes her spirit, a healing balm over her heart.

5. Taking her insecurity too lightly: Your wife knows she is highly committed to you. When she sees you looking at other women, in the mall, on t.v., on the computer, she fears that you may be unfaithful. She is insecure and needs your reassurance, not belittling, joking, or teasing. Your wife is motivated by your love and loyalty. She has committed her life to you, and wants to feel secure that you are equally committed to her. A big symbol of your loyalty to your wife is a wedding ring. For a woman, this is a sign of your fidelity. A married man without a ring seems to be trying to hide something. It requires not a lot from you, to reassure your wife in this way, and her peace of mind ought to be worth the cost of an inexpensive outward expression of your fidelity. When your wife feels insecure, she may ask if you still think she is pretty. She may ask if you love her. She may ask if you think someone else is more attractive. This is not a trap. She feels she is moving toward you, by asking a question and starting a conversation. Talking is how women feel close. She is seeking your assurance of love and loyalty. Rather than make light of the moment, look at her. No, really look at her. Tell her she is the most beautiful woman you have ever seen. Give her the assurance she seeks, and ease her troubled mind.

6. Ignoring the importance of simple gestures: Your wife does not require fancy jewelry or expensive meals. Granted, those things are nice, and you like to treat your wife. It isn’t always necessary. She feels loved by the small tokens of your love and appreciation. When you neglect the small things, it may feel to her like you are trying to buy her affection, or ease your own guilt, with the big things. Let your wife know that she is on your mind during the day. A single rose when you walk in the door speaks volumes to her language of love. for her, the most important days of the year are her birthday and the day she married you. Celebrate these days by spending time with just her. It will mean more than any expensive gift ever could. The cost of the gift is secondary to the thought you put into it.

7. Taking all the fun out of sex: When you confuse sex with intimacy, it’s no fun. When you only focus on your orgasm, it’s no fun. When you only show interest in your wife when you want to get lucky, it’s no fun. When you devalue the depth of your sexual relationship with crude jokes and pornography, it’s no fun. When you expect her to get excited instantly, it’s no fun. When you neglect your wife’s sexual needs, it’s no fun. When you are married, sex is supposed to be fun. An intimate sharing, designed to bring you closer, sex should cement the bond between you. Think of your wife as a crock-pot. You are a microwave. Put a meal in a microwave, and you are eating within three minutes. A crock-pot meal takes a lot of forethought. You need the proper ingredients. You have to put everything together, turn it on and wait. Six or eight hours later, you enjoy a delicious meal. Your wife needs the same thoughtful consideration. Start in the morning with a kiss. Tell her she’s beautiful. Women never get tired of hearing that from the man they love. Help get the kids ready for school. After work, ask about her day. Slow. Slow. Slow. If you want to bring the fun back into sex, think crock-pot, not microwave. You can microwave in the shower.

8. getting lost in bitterness and anger: When you shut your wife out, to brood in your despair, it fills her with fear. Women like to talk things out. Men like to shut things out. When you feel stressed about work, about money, about your relationship, you turn inward. This provokes your wife’s fear of abandonment and rejection. She thinks you don’t love her when you refuse to speak. This fear, and her desire to resolve conflict, cause your wife to pursue you. She wants to talk it out, not to belittle or demean you, but to feel closer. She wants you to trust her, so she can trust you.

9. Not taking responsibility: Whether it’s an addiction, an affair or poor performance in your life, many times, husbands point to their wives as the reason for their weakness. “She makes me drink because of her nagging. I cheated because she wouldn’t take care of me. I’m doing poorly because she never encourages me.” It’s time to take full responsibility for your own behavior. You choose to drink. You choose to cheat. You choose to work or not work. Rather than blame someone or something else, stand up, take control and make your life reflect the values you desire. Your life is completely under your control. Today, you can choose differently.

10. Picking the wrong woman. Again. And again. A woman in distress, moving from crisis to crisis, will continue to be distresses after you marry her. A nitpicking woman who criticizes your every decision will continue to nitpick. A control freak always wants control, even after the wedding. If you want a nice wife, then date a nice woman and marry her. Treat her with love and respect and she will return the kindness. Trying to rescue a woman in distress will only lead you to feel used and unappreciated. A strong marriage begins with a goodwilled woman and a goodwilled man. It flourishes as you both grow in love and respect toward each other.

While this list may seem daunting, it is important to remember that the main goal of marriage should be peace and happiness. If life is stressful, work on changing your perception. You can see peace instead of stress. You are only one thought away from a peaceful life. If you feel unhappy, seek those thing that will fulfill you in life. Just be happy. The simplest route to something is to just be. The only person you can change is yourself.

by Deborah Demander

Related story-Top 10 Things Women Do To Destroy Their Marriage

Source: http://justsayingbylase.blogspot.com/2011/11/top-10-things-men-do-to-destroy-their.html

Parliament endorses Kenyan forces joining AMISOM

Parliament has unanimously endorsed a move seeking to have the Kenyan forces fighting the Al shabaab in Somalia serve under the African Union Mission in Somalia AMISOM.  MPs supported the move saying it will provide Kenya a safe exit from the war which may prove costly and burden the tax payer.  They said under AMISOM, Kenya will secure regional backing and ensure the war is well managed under the African Union.  They said being part of AMISOM will ensure Kenya protects its interests as a country.  Deputy Speaker Farah Maalim hailed the Kenyan defense team who he said in the short time they have been in Somalia, they have been able to free several towns from the militia group compared to the Ugandan forces.  Maalim claimed that the Somali locals have lost faith in the Ugandan forces who they accuse of doing business with the war.  He urged the training of Somali forces to enable them be fully equipped to combat the militia. The deputy speaker warned against engaging Israel in the war against the Al shabaab saying this will jeopardize progress made in the war.  

Foreign Affairs Minister Moses Wetangula said Kenya's war against the militants has UN backing adding that the UN boss Ban-Ki Moon is set to visit Dadaab Thursday.   Internal Security Minister Prof George Saitoti said by having our forces serve under the African Union it will ensure the war is not a Kenyan problem but a global one.  Saitoti said Kenya was not interested in an expansionist program but was in Somalia in a bid to defeat the militia and protect its territory against external aggression.  Defence assistant minister Joseph Nkaissery heaped praise on the Kenyan forces attributing their prowess to the huge investment in training.  However even as they supported the move they demanded that the government provide the clear rules of engagement seeking to know who will be in charge of the Kenyan troops, their training and level of command.  Foreign Affairs assistant minister Richard Onyonka assured that the forces will operate according to internationally acceptable standards.  He said Kenya has taken part in various peace missions which have been successful and the same guidelines for such missions will guide the engagement with AMISOM. Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan said it is in the interest of Kenya to support the stability in Somalia.  Other contributions saw MPs back the AMISOM strategy with Mathira MP Ephraim Maina saying going in as a country without timelines is bound to fail saying Kenya's occupation in Somalia should be kept short.

He cited countries like US who have gone into countries like Afghanistan and Vietnam with little success. The only opposition to the motion came from Garsen MP Danson Mungatana who accused the government of reneging on its earlier commitment to ensure the al shabaab war is carried out for a limited time.  Mungatana regretted that billions of funds had gone into the war yet the country has pending commitments which include doctors pay, improvement of infrastructure, and other commitments.  The Garsen MP said Kenya was a shrinking economy and cannot afford to engage in an endless war.  He said Kenya should have emulated the Burundi example by contributing troops and not fully engaged in the war. Mungatana urged the government to stick to its initial plans to have the Kenya defence forces in Somalia for a short time and withdraw its troops now.  Earlier attempts by Mutito MP Kiema Kilonzo to have the debate held in camera were thwarted by Imenti Central MP Gitobu Imanyara who was supported by Mungatana. Imanyara said Kenyans had the right to know why the Kenyan forces should serve under AMISOM while Mungatana said the constitution guarantees Kenyans access to information and there was no justification to hold the debate in secret. Onyonka agreed saying the information on the motion was not of a sensitive nature and will not jeopardize any security issues.

A LUO PROVERB

Ogwang' chamo to tho rome.

A wild cats, but it also suffers from the wetness of the dew on its skin as it hunts.

Success comes but with hard work, perseverance and frustrations

UK interest rates kept on hold at record low of 0.5%

UK interest rates have been held at a record low of 0.5% by the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee. Concerns about the strength of the economic recovery and the eurozone debt crisis meant that economists had expected rates to remain unchanged. Interest rates have been kept at 0.5% since March 2009. The Bank did not announce any increase in its policy of quantitative easing. In October, the Bank said it would pump another £75bn into the economy. The Bank had already pumped £200bn into the economy with asset purchases between March 2009 and February 2010. Ian McCafferty, chief economic adviser of the CBI employers' organisation, said: "With the Bank's current round of asset purchases likely to run into early next year, this decision to keep monetary policy on hold is in line with our expectations. "Developments in the eurozone remain the key risk to the UK's economic prospects. While there are encouraging signs that progress will be made at this week's summit, it's clear that the situation is at a critical juncture." The Bank hinted last month that it will take until February to administer the latest £75bn expansion in its QE programme. However, many economists expect a further £50bn-plus of QE early next year.

Biometric residence permits – online checks to

simplify the process for employers

Home Office, 06 December 2011

It will soon be much easier for employers in UK to carry out checks to let them know whether foreign nationals have the right to work in the UK, Immigration Minister Damian Green announced today. From spring 2012, firms will be able to go online to verify that the details contained on a foreign employee's biometric residence permit (BRP) are correct. Damian Green said: 'It is vital that we work with employers to give them the tools they need to meet their obligations. 'Our new online checking service will also turn up the pressure on those who wish to live and work here illegally. The message is clear - the UK is no longer a soft touch for illegal workers.'

It was also announced that from 29 February 2012 BRPs will be issued to more categories of foreign nationals, including refugees and those granted permission to settle in the UK.

BRPs, which hold a person's fingerprints and photograph on a secure chip, are issued to non-EEA nationals with permission to remain in the UK for more than 6 months. They are an important step forward in the fight against immigration abuse and illegal working. BRPs are simplifying the process of checking an individual's right to work by replacing the wide range of documents currently in use. The new online checking service for employers will enable quick and easy real-time checks on permits and their holder's identity and right to work in the UK. Around 600,000 BRPs have been issued since November 2008. From next year they will cover all those applying from inside the UK to remain here for more than 6 months. To meet increased demand and provide foreign nationals with more locations around the UK where fingerprints and photographs can be taken, the immigration minister has today announced that a contract for the collection of this information has been awarded to the Post Office Ltd. The contract will run for 4 years and Post Office Ltd will offer a network of around 100 locations from spring 2012.

CATWALKING IN STYLE IN SUPPORT HIV/AIDS AWARENESS

It was a HIV/AIDs day in UK on Friday 2nd December, 2011 and the day was marked all over the UK. AfricanActs organised World's Aids day in Dagenham, Essex where Catwalk was done by professional to mark day.

PPI (Payment Protection Insurance)

Have you ever been sold PPI against loans, mortgages or credit cards? If so, then you need to contact us so that we can put a claim through before the deadline date, you risk losing money if you don’t.

Why chose us??

Here are some testimonies

‘ The service you have provided was first class, we have no hesitation to recommend your services to others’ Mr. and Mrs. Johnson

‘ I would like to say a big thank you for your hard work in dealing with my claim against Barclays, I received back £6,000’  J. Mbogo

Please call us now don’t wait any longer – Tel: 07787448692 – CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Or visit www.protocol-finance.com

A KENYAN MAN HAS PASSED AWAY IN VIRGINIA, USA

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Mr. Greg Ambrose Owino of Woodbridge, Virginia, U.S.A.  He died at his residence in Virginia on Friday, November 25, 2011 at 10:00 p.m. after a period of illness. Mr. Owino hails from Kagonya Village, Ugenya District in Siaya County. Mr. Owino was beloved husband of Priscah Akinyi Owino of Woodbridge, Virginia. He was a loving father of Clara Owino of U.S.A, Kenneth Omondi Owino of Australia, Liyah Auma Owino of U.S.A and Gerald Oluoch Owino of Kenya. He was son of the late Mr. Ambrose Arek Oluoch and Mrs. Monica Emily Akoth of Kagonya Village, North Ugenya. He was brother to George Oluoch of Kisii, Lynette Odette formerly of Barclays Bank, Elly Oduor, Ministry of Agriculture, Machakos, the Late Anna Odongo and Mary Othieno among others. He was uncle to Roselyn Diang'a, Carol Odette, U.K., Christine Akinyi Odongo, U.K., Carren Demarris, Ohio, Dick Odongo and Susan Adhiambo. 

Mr. Owino was a former Communications Officer with UNICEF Country Office in Nairobi, Kenya. Prior to this, he was a lecturer at Kenya Science Teachers College and he also served in various positions at the Kenya Institute of Education. He was born in Daraja Mbili in Kisii. He went to school at Homabay and St. Mary’s Yala, and later proceeded to University of Nairobi where he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Education. He later attained his Master’s degree from Ibadan University in Nigeria. He will be greatly missed by family, friends and the community at large. Family and friends will be meeting every evening at 3531 Sophia Court, Woodbridge, VA 22193 to support the family and organize the funeral. The family phone numbers is 703-670-4999. Fundraising event is scheduled for Saturday, December 10, 2011 to help transport the body to Kenya. Friends, relatives and well wishers are invited to the fundraising event. More details about this will be sent soon. For those who wish to deposit their money at a Bank, a funds account is available: Wells Fargo Bank, Priscah Owino, Account #101-006-737-8560 (checks can be mailed to the above home address) For more information, you may contact Priscah Owino – 703-2099689 or Joseph Mecha – 301-905-7677.

KENYA HIGH COMMISSION STAFFS WERE ALSO PRESENT WITH IDs

Several staffs from Kenya High Commission in London were also issued with the New Kenya Identity Cards during the launching of the IDs by the Hon. Minister of State for Immigration And Registration Of Persons, Hon. Gerald Otieno Kajwang, MP. From left to right receiving her card is the Deputy High Commissioner Ms Jackline Rumumba Yonga, Mr. Mandu and Mr. Sang

Rev. Kibathi of PCEA UK Outreach (left) receiving his ID and in the centre laughing is the minister explaining to Topi Lambila a former KTN reporter that he is issuing him with a Kenyan ID not a KTN staff card. On right is Agnes Gitau.

CONCLUDING WITH A MEAL

Concluding every event with a meal is always regarded as a successful event. The ID launching was concluded with a meal where Mr Rueben Kimotho, Director of National Registration Bureau is seen taking his share. This confirms the Kikuyu proverb which says "gûtirî îrî mûtheche yoyagîra îrîa îngî." On right is Mr. Josh Maina from Reading, Berks, receiving his card.

Mid-day meal turns tragic for Msambweni families

Four people have died in Mwakamba village in Mombasa after feasting on turtle meat .The four, who were from three families are said to have started vomiting uncontrollably before they died. Turtles are one of the oldest reptiles. They are characterized by special shell developed from their ribs that act as shield. Some turtle species are edible. However, eating box turtles can make one sick since they eat species of fungi that are poisonous to humans, and the poisons remain in their bodies, even after they've been cooked. - CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

GRADUATING WITH AGE

Mr. Jim Nyagah graduated with a Masters Degree in Education from the University of Bedfordshire on Thursday 27th of October, 2011. Mr. Nyagah holds a Masters in Business Administration and lectures at Barnet College and other Institutions of Further Education in the UK. His daughter Diana (right) graduated a month later at Westminster University with Bachelor's Degree in Business Law and Marketing. Mr. Nyagah was escorted to the graduation by his daughter Diana (right) and his son Samuel Mureithi (left) together with his brother John Njeru Nyagah (behind) who had travelled from Kenya for the occasion.  The family is from the slopes of Mt. Kenya and lives in North London.

MPs recommend compensation of demolition victims

Parliament's joint committees investigating the recent demolitions in Nairobi want the government to compensate victims. The committee led by Gachoka MP Mutava Musyimi heavily indicted the Ministry of Lands blaming it for the fraudulent deals that saw local investors duped into buying public land. The committee says the government should pay out the evictees either through refunds, ex gratia payments or other humanitarian assistance. It is demanding that all officers in the Ministry of Lands be vetted to weed out corrupt officers and to dismantle cartels that has been defrauding members of the public. In its report tabled in parliament Wednesday afternoon, the committee notes that since the government allowed the victims to settle on the land, and that the demolitions were undertaken without prior notice, making it impossible for the victims to rescue any of their belongings, it is imperative that they receive restitution. The committee also wants the government to undertake future demolitions only as a last resort after giving the settlers ample notice and allowing them to move out themselves and demolish their own structures. It says the evictees were third parties who were duped into a fraudulent deal.  It is also demanding the speedy establishment of the National Land Commission to address the numerous problems bedeviling the land sector and wants the ministry of lands to expedite passage of laws proposed in the constitution establishing the commission. The joint committee has given the ministry 90days after the adoption of the report by Parliament to ensure the laws are enacted and that the National Land Commission is operationalized by March 30, 2012 warning against extension of timelines set out in the constitution.

Public land audit

In its report, the joint committees faulted the manner  in which the evictions were carried out calling for the passage of the draft evictions and resettlement bill to provide a legal framework for the exercise. The report that now awaits debate also wants the government to undertake an audit of all public land especially strategic and security installations, urging it to follow the due process in reclaiming any public land in the hands of individuals. It is giving the government 90 days after parliament's endorsement of the report, to give an audit report on land occupied by key installations such as airports and military installations, way leaves and key infrastructure such as the pipeline. The government also has 90 days with the adoption of the report to implement the 2004 report of the commission of inquiry into irregular allocation of public land (Ndungu report). The voluminous report also recommends the harmonization of approval of development plans demanding that all government departments work together and consult to ensure coordinated demolitions where necessary.

It proposes that all future demolitions be carried out in a humane manner faulting the government for applying excessive force while demolishing structures in Kyang'ombe, Syokimau, Masai village and parts of Eastleigh. The report contains specific recommendations for the different areas affected with demands to the Chief Justice to expedite the conclusion of a case regarding ownership of the Syokimau land that was filed in 2004. For the Biafra and Eastleigh section 3, the report  notes that the buildings near the airbase posed a security threat and their construction should have only been cleared by the Department of Defense and not the city council as has been approved.   The committee is urging the government to relocate the airbase. For the Eastleigh Kiambiu and Kitui villages, the committee wants the occupants resettled since the encroachment on the airbase was carried out in full knowledge and approval of government. It wants the government to halt any plans to demolish the two slums until it identifies alternative land to resettle the occupants of these slums. The committee wants those who authorized allocation of these parcels identified and landlords of these slums established. The report will now come up for debate once the house business committee allocates time. The committee held a series of meetings with top government officials and victims including site visits. In its summary of findings, the committee acknowledges it could not authenticate the validity of documentation provided concerning Syokimau, KPA Maasai, Mitumba and Kyang'ombe areas.

My wife should pay me maintenance - Philip Moi

Rosanna Pluda with lawyer Judy Thongori at the Milimani law courts on Monday

Retired  President Moi’s son Philip now wants his estranged wife Rosanna Pluda to pay for his upkeep and not the other way round. Philip argues they are equals before the law. He is contesting a maintenance award of Sh250,000 given to Rosanna by the High Court this year. Philip argues the constitution regards parties in a marriage as equals and therefore it should not only be the husband to pay maintenance. Philip's lawyer Evans Ondieki told Justice GBM Kariuki yesterday; “The constitution regards both parties as equals. She should maintain Philip. It is not a one-way traffic”. He accused Rosanna of immorality and asked the court not to compel Philip to pay her maintenance. Philip argued that it would be difficult for him to pay for her upkeep since she left him for another man. However, judge Kariuki warned Philip to stick to the main arguments and not to sidetrack. Philip wants the judge to reduce the Sh250,000 monthly maintenance award and has asked that it be stayed until his appeal is concluded. Philip said the award by Justice Roselyne Nambuye towards the upkeep of Rosanna and their children was based on speculation.

“The order was not based on statement of earnings. Instead it is based on mere speculation. Maintenance must be premised on tangible evidence. This kind of order will endanger men,” his lawyer argued. Philip said the route taken by Rosanna to have him committed to civil jail for failing to pay maintenance would not help the children. “If he is in jail he is not able to pay school fees. For her to want the father of her children to be sent to jail goes against international laws,” said Ondieki. Rosanna however urged the court to dismiss Philip's appeal as frivolous. "This plea by Philip is a ploy to delay the conclusion of the matter as there is no substantial grounds cited for the relief sought," her lawyer Judy Thongori declared. She said what she found draconian was not her application to have Philip committed to civil jail but his guts to disobey a court order and walk away. She told the court that Philip, despite the order being given in 2010, has not paid the monthly upkeep. Philip has only paid her Sh270,000 so far even though he was asked to pay Sh250,000 a month in May 2011, she said. She argued that the maintenance was determined by a court order and not contractual obligation, and therefore Philip should be compelled to pay. “Philip is unwilling, he is not unable. It has been found that he has the capacity,” Thongori said. The court will give its ruling on February 9, 2012.

IMMIGRATION CHANGES

Have you or do you know anyone who has made an application as a foreign national to vary leave to remain in the UK but the Secretary of State For Home Department [ SSHD] has refused the application and  has not, at the same time or promptly thereafter, given a direction for the removal of from the UK.

Also cases where applications were pending under the legacy casework directorate and have not been resolved.

If you fall under the above category there are recent developments in these cases following a court of Appeal decision.

For more information please contact:

MartynsRose Solicitors Tel: 0208 538 1397/07931 116 124.

Email: admin@martynsrosesolicitors.co.uk, martynsrosesolicitors@yahoo.co.uk

Web:www.martynsrosesolicitors.co.uk

PLOT FOR SALE IN KINOO, NAIROBI

 KHS 3.3 MILION

I HAVE A PLOT IN RUNGIRI NAIROBI/ NAKURU HIGHWAY FEET100 BY 50 1/8 OF AN ACRE SUITABLE FOR COMMERECIAL PLOTS OR HOME BUILD SECOND ROW PLOTS FROM THE MAIN ROAD CLEAN TITLE DEEDS ONLY SERIOUS BUYERS  ONLY CONTACT MUNIU KHS 3 MILLION   UK NO 07950761284 KENYA  RACHEL 00254720949685.

CAUGHT AT THE IMO DINNER IN LONDON

Mr. John Gaitho(right) from Borehamwood was captured watching African Dancers at the IMO Dinner in London last month and on left photo from left to right is Mr. Mandu of Kenya High Commission, High Commissioner HE Ngare and Mr. Stephen Mburu.

RAIN IN KENYA CONTINUES TO CAUSE HAVOC

Hundreds of families have been cut off by water overflowing the southern dyke in Budalang'i. - The Standard.

Overcoming Broken Relationships

One sign that a relationship is nearing an end is a change in contact between partners. You might find that contact suddenly or gradually diminishes. Phone calls lessen in frequency or length, emails drop off, and time spent together becomes less and less. This is one example of a partner not being upfront and honest with their mate and is instead choosing to distance themselves and hope the other party gets the hint.

Expert: 'Snow Could Help Prevent Recession'

A bout of heavy snow could help Britain avoid a double-dip recession, according to an expert from the Office for Budget Responsibility. Professor Stephen Nickell told MPs on the Treasury Select Committee that extreme weather like snow would lower economic activity, and therefore gross domestic product (GDP), so that the bounce back in the first quarter of next year would prevent the two consecutive quarters of shrinking GDP which technically indicate a recession. This could be good news for the eurozone which saw growth stagnate for the second quarter in a row, heightening concerns that the single currency bloc may be heading for a recession. In the three months to September, gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 0.2% compared to the previous quarter. Although economies around the world have been suffering, output over the same period in both Britain and the US rose 0.5%.

MEDICAL TREATMENT APPEAL

My name is Agnes Kanyua from Nakuru Kenya, I am married in Malindi with a 13yr old son. Me and my family we live in Jersey Channel Islands in UK. Both my kidneys failed last year in January, and since then I have been on dialysis three times a week. Due to this working for me became impossible. So for almost two years I have been out of work due to my condition.

Early this year one of my brother came over to be a donor, unfortunately it did not work out as one of his kidneys was developing traces of kidney stones, he had to go back home. I have a second brother coming over in 16thJanuary, he is a match and he has done all tests back at home. Am appealing to all well wishers to help me and my family as we are going through a rough time trying to raise funds to facilitate all the costs.

It is very hard to be away from home sick and not working, and funding the cost of bringing over my second brother seems next to impossible to us. We are raising funds to pay for air ticket, visa, his upkeep while here before and after the transplant. As we live in Jersey all the transplant build up plus the transplant will be done in Guys Hospital in London, so while my brother will be here he will be required to fly to and fro London a few times which is very expensive.

Every little helps so please help me in whatever way you can and God will reward you for your generosity.

Please below find my  details, 

Thank you in advance for your help  and may all mighty God bless you.

AGNES KANYUA

EMAIL:ianyaa@hotmail.com

TEL: 07700327649,

BARCLAYS BANK JERSEY (UK) BRANCH,

SORT CODE:20-45-05  A/C NO:90843911.

The Enemy Within Part 1-4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_wnKSU-Hwc&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxURmth5d8M&feature=relmfu

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7UP45ZVQgBA&feature=relmfu

www.sk-electrical.co.uk

Many cancers could be prevented

Almost half (45%) of all cancers in men and 40% in women could be prevented, according to a major study. The Cancer Research UK report found more than 100,000 cancers each year in the UK are caused by four lifestyle factors - smoking, unhealthy diets, alcohol and people being too fat. This rises to around 134,000 cases a year when 14 lifestyle and environmental factors are taken into account. Smoking is by far the biggest lifestyle contributor to a person's risk of developing cancer, accounting for 23% of all cancers in men and 15.6% in women. As well as lung cancer, it is implicated in other forms of the disease including bladder, kidney, pancreatic and cervical cancer. The charity said the review, which is published in the British Journal of Cancer, is the most comprehensive to date.

Durex Ranks Nigerian Women As The Most Unfaithful

In a recently concluded survey by Durex, Malaysians were ranked in the world as the most unfaithful in relationships. 33 percent of Malaysian men admitted to have been unfaithful to their spouses. 39 percent of the women also confessed to have betrayed their partners. Nigeria is ranked as the country with the most unfaithful women with a 62 percent, closely followed by the women of Thailand. Russian women came fourth with a 33 percent, followed by Singaporeans. The survey, which was done by the Condom manufacturing country, Durex, was based on interviews with 29,000 people in 36 countries. The survey also indicated that Malaysian men have an average of three sex partners in their lives while those in Singapore and Hong Kong have 16!

It’s that time of the year when we celebrate our independence and reflect on our achievements as a people and as a country. We doing a joint celebration with our beloved neighbouring country Tanzania for an event to cherish our heritage and commemorate the day both countries got liberated from the colonial ways.

It’s the biggest party in town with top notch deejays; Cymoh, Double T, Billy and Collo to entertain you through the night. If you haven’t been to a Tripple Em Foods event then this your chance and for all who've been before, you know the atmosphere and ambience is a true joy and fun filled.

Dress code is wear any Kenya or Tanzania attires from sports jerseys (Football, Rugby, and athletics), vitenge, t-shirts to company branded merchandise lets all look elegant and classy and show off how beautiful and rich our heritage is.

Doors open from 6pm – 6am for only £5 before midnight and £10 afterwards. Try and avoid last minute rush by coming early and enjoy our sumptuous African dishes.

Theraputic Essential Oils

INHALATION

Inhaling the oils with warm steam in a small space means you get maximum benefits in minimum time. Inhaling is ideal for treating coughs or colds, or for treating your skin to a steam facial.

Best Theraputic Essential Oils For Inhalation.

• Peppermint ( for energy, concentration)

• Myrrh ( for sore throat, coughs)

• Frankincense ( depression, anxiety)

• Eucalyptus ( For chest/nasal congestion)

• Chamomile ( for sleeplessness)

ROOM VAPORISERS.

You can buy essential-oil burners which have a saucer fixed above a stand which holds a candle. Fill the saucer with hot water, add up to eight drops of essential oil, and light the candle to keep the water hot enough to make the oil evaporate.

Best Theraputic Essential Oils For Room Vaporisers.

• Neroli ( calming, soothing, sensual)

• Mandalin ( for sleeplessness, soothing, calming)

• Lavender ( for tension, nerves, tiredness)

• Jasmine ( euphoria, confidence, dinner parties)

• Geranium ( energising yet relaxing)

• Eucalyptus ( for chest/nasal congestion, mental alertness)

• Bergamot( uplifting, refreshing, deodorising)

• Ylang-ylang ( hyphotic, sensual, uplifting)

ROOM SPRAYS.

For a natural, non-aerosol and highly aromatic air freshener, add ten drops of essential oil to half a litre of water in a pump-action, spray bottle (the kind used for watering houseplants).

Shake the mixture well before pumping four or five sprays into the air to deodorise, freshen and scent a room.

Best oils for Freshening.

• Lavender ( to kill airborne germs in the house)

• Lemon ( air freshener for the toilet)

• Peppermint ( to remove the stale smell of cigarette smoke).

Best Combinations.

• 3 drops each pine, rosemary and lavender ( disinfecting, for bathrooms, rubbish bins, damp or mould)

• 5 drops each lemon and lime ( deodorising, for wardrobes, cupboards, bathrooms, cooking smells).

POT-POURRI.

Make your own pot-pourri by mixing together dried leaves, flowers and herbs form your garden (geranium, rose, lavender, pinks, cornflowers, citrus blossoms, etc.). With spices ( cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, allspice), a little talcum powder and favourite essential oils. The basic mix should contain six cups of dried plants, two tablespoons of talc and 12 drops of essential oils. Leave it in an airtight container, shaking and inverting it daily for a fortnight until the aromas have been absorbed by the talc and dried materials.

Then place it in an open bowl or jar to fragrance a room. Refresh it when needed by adding a few more drops of essential oils.

AIR PURIFIER.

Not only can you make your whole house smell fresh, but you can also purify the air by adding essential oils to the dust bag of your vacuum cleaner.

Place five drops of oil on a cotton-wool ball inside the cleaner, against the exit filter where air blows out of your machine. To refresh or change the fragrance, just replace it with a new cotton ball as often as you wish.

Best Purifying Oils.

• Tea-tree

• Rosemary

• Pine

• Peppermint

• Lemon

• Lavender

• Citronella

• Bergamot

DEODORISERS.

To disinfect the air in a sickroom, burn oils as already described, in a vaporizer.

To deodorize and neutrlise odours, put four drops of essential oil on a cotton-wool ball and place it in a wardrobe, laundry basket, rubbish bin, shoe rack, etc.

For persistent under arm odour, place two drops of essential oil on the inside, underarm seams of shirts, jackets or jumpers.

For smelly shoes, rub four drops of essential oil into the insoles with a tissue.

Best Oils For Deodorising.

• Bergamot ( deodorising, uplifting)

• Myrrh(sore throat, coughs)

• Lavender ( antiseptic, calming, relaxing)

• Tea tree ( for viruses, flu, etc)

• Eucalyptus ( for congestion, colds).

To deodorize, neutralise odours

• Lemongrass

• Thyme

• Peppermint

• Bergamot

• Lavender

For Underarm Odour.

• Citronella, bergamot.

For Smelly Shoes.

• Lemon

NTV Investigates: Dreams and nightmares - CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

AFRICAN EATING JOINT IN SLOUGH NOW OPEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Slough now offers an African food venue that has been made possible by African Family Development Support Group and Open Fist Society. This venue is open to all communities who are African, have African roots, love Africa or those that want to have a taste of the true African delicacy.

The food will be sourced locally and cooked from fresh. The environment will be ambient and suitable for any discussion you wish to engage in with your friends, relatives or a person you may have just met at the centre.

We shall also offer music from our selected list of zilizopendwa, mugithi, lingalaand many more. We are certain that you will enjoy this new joint.

Doors open on Saturdays' and Sundays' at 1400hrs to last orders at 2200hrs making this a suitable environment for families to come and spend some quality time in the afternoon eating coupled with some easy listening and chatting.

We look forward to seeing you every Saturdays and Sundays from   2PM – 10PM

Venue Address is:

Chalvey Community Centre, The Green, Slough, SL1 2SP Opposite Murco petrol Station

contactJosh on 07933505880 for more info and directions please.

For more information click....http://www.kenyatopup.com/africafood.html

Come one, Come all.

WORD OF TODAY

Romans 8:35

God loves you, He really does!

Romans 8:35 explains:  "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?" Our limited minds can't comprehend God's love because it comes with no strings attached. He doesn't love us 'if,' but 'in spite of.' As a parent you may not approve of your child's behaviour, but you always love and accept them. Paul asks, 'Can anything ever separate us from Christ's love?'(Romans 8:35 NLT).Then he answers, '...I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love...'(Romans 8:38). Doesn't that blow your mind? We have just enough ego to believe there are certain sins God can't get over; like the ones we never commit. Do you remember the Pharisee in the temple who prayed, '..."God, I thank You that I am not like other men; extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or...this tax collector [standing next to me]" ' (Luke 18:11 NKJV). Understand this: God's standard is perfection, and you couldn't reach it in a thousand lifetimes! Grace is the only hope any of us have. Our love for God relates to the level of the forgiveness we've received from Him. The Pharisees were shocked that Jesus would allow a woman with a bad reputation to kneel at His feet, bathing them with her tears and drying them with her hair. They thought, '..."If Jesus were a prophet, he would know that the woman...is a sinner!"' (Luke 7:39 NCV). No, it wasn't that Jesus didn't know, it was that He didn't care. 'And he said unto her, "Thy sins are forgiven"'(Luke 7:48 NKJV). Then He gives us the bottom line: '...to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little' (Luke 7:47-48 KJV). And what should our response to God's love be? 'This is love for God: to obey his commands...' (1 John 5:3 NIV). – Kumbuka amri kumi za Mungu kila siku.

I take this opportunity to invite you in our pray Conference Prayer every Morning from 6-7a.m. call this local number in UK Tel  02030042084 pin No.67299# and you will be able to join us for prayers. It is a free number with landline in UK.

Our Guest Singer today is Mr. Mwasi from the Republic of Kenya - CLICK HERE

A KENYAN LADY HAS PASSED AWAY IN LONDON

A Kenyan lady, 65, has passed away in London. The late Mrs. Virginia Njambi Wahome passed away  in London on Friday 2nd December, 2011. The late Mrs. Wahome had come to visit their children in Dagenham, Essex with her husband Mr. Johnson Wahome Muteithia of Ngorano, Karatina, Nyeri, Kenya. The arrived in UK in September this year where Mrs. Wahome has been undergoing treatment. She passed away peacefully in their house on Friday afternoon. She is mother to Lucy Muringi (Mama Njeri) and James Njuguna (Kuchu) of Rosedale Road near Thatched House in Dagenham, UK. Mother to Catherine Nyokabi, the late Moses Muteithia, James Ngera, Lucy Muringi (Mama Njeri, UK), David Kibera and Rosemary Wanjira. Grandmother to Virginia Njambi (Australia), Esther Nduta (Australia), Stephanie Njeri (UK), Nesta Njambi (UK) and Ashley Njenga (UK), Virginia Njambi Ngera, Vincent Wahome Ngera, Teresia Njeri Chege and Virginia Njambi Chege. Mother-in-law to James Njuguna (Kuchu, UK), John Chege Machaga, Jane Muthoni Ngera and Damari's Wairimu Kibera.  Family and friends are meeting for prayers and arrangements at 28 Rosedale Road, Dagenham, Essex, RM9 4DU. Those wishing to help can do so through Barclays Bank, Account number 10762679, Sort Code 206790 and Account Name is J. Njenga. The burial ceremony takes place on Thursday 15th December, 2011 in Ngorano, Karatina, Nyeri, Kenya. The cortege leave Jomo Kenyatta University Mortuary on Thursday morning at 8.00 a.m. where people will assemble for the journey. The memorial service in London will take place on Monday 12th December, 2011 at PCEA UK Church, Stratford, Brickfields Christian Centre, Welfare Road, Stratford, London E15 4HT as from 6.00 p.m. For more information please contact 02082522941, 07985504691 or 07960199273l.

NTV Investigates: Dreams and nightmares - PART 1-4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4YX1h-FcwM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0STRy1Q6G-Q

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fD15mdUjpy4

'Racist rant' accused remanded

A woman has been remanded in custody after appearing in court over an alleged racist rant on a tram that was captured on video. Emma West appeared at Croydon Magistrates' Court in south London charged with a racially aggravated public order offence. A video allegedly showing the 34-year-old, of New Addington, racially abusing fellow passengers on board the busy tram has been viewed more than 11 million times since appearing online on Sunday November 27. She was arrested last Monday after the footage was posted on YouTube. A bail application was made by West's solicitor David Ewings, but it was denied by the magistrate Ian McNeal to protect her safety. She was remanded in custody to appear by videolink for a committal hearing at Croydon Magistrates' Court on January 3. Earlier, an administrative error led to the defendant entering a not guilty plea, but the court file was later amended to show she has not yet pleaded.

Judy GG from Oxford gets another award

Judy GG, Gospel singer from Oxford has been voted as Best International Artist 2011 at the Talanta Music Awards in Atlanta America on the 26th Nov 2011. This follows on after her winning at the UK Kenyan Achiever's Award held in London on the 18th Nov 2011 where she was awarded Artist of the year 2011. Thank you for the continued support you have given her ministry. CDs are available online or via the website http://www.judygg.com

Ireland cuts outlook under Europe's shadow

(Reuters) - Ireland cut its growth forecast for next year and fleshed out 1 billion euros worth of fresh tax measures on Tuesday under the shadow of a euro zone debt crisis that threatens to derail its fragile recovery and force even more austerity on its recession-weary people. Finance Minister Michael Noonan cut his outlook for Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth to 1.3 percent from 1.6 percent, the second downgrade in a month, as the risk of a euro zone recession hits the outlook for export growth and keeps the Irish consumer locked in a protracted downturn. Noonan insisted the budget deficit target for this year was still on track but a worsening growth outlook could force him to push through even harsher austerity budgets in 2013 and beyond if Dublin is to meet its goals under an EU-IMF bailout. "No matter what happens in the wider eurozone, Ireland needs to restore sustainability to its public finances," Noonan told a packed lower chamber. "If the euro zone crisis recedes, we are amongst the best placed to grow quickly, as evidenced by the EU Commission's growth forecasts. If the euro zone crisis persists, it is equally important for the state to reduce our dependence on borrowing."

 Swollen rivers wash away homes

Marooned villages in Budalang'i. Over 40,000 people have been displaced from the area by floods. More than 16,000 people have been left homeless after their homes were washed away by floods in Tana River County. Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) Coast Region manager Gerald Bombe said more than 6,000 people were also marooned when River Tana burst its banks. Hundreds of acres under various crops were destroyed and an unknown number of livestock drowned in the water.

JAMHURI DAY CELEBRATION IN LUTON WITH JANE KIGURU

All Kenyans in Luton and surrounding are invited for Jamhuri day cerebrations and prayer for our beloved country. Sister Jane Kiguru OF kENYA REBUILD will be ministering. The address is New Covenant Church Luton 334 Selbourne Road, Lu4 8NU.on 11th December, 2011 Time 10am-12.30pm. Be blessed as you prepare to come. - VIDEO

KENYA NEWS IN VIDEOS

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ieE-Dpqv0jM&feature=player_embedded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aK3UZhbRFdI&feature=endscreen&NR=1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdUI8d6PB2I&feature=relmfu

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unBjCR8lcPU&feature=relmfu

Top 10 Things Women Do To Destroy Their Marriage
 
While both husband and wife should take responsibility for their part in a marriage,

below are ten mistakes common to women, which can completely destroy a marriage.

1. Using words to hurt, maim and destroy your marriage: Although men are stronger, women have the advantage when it comes to verbal strength. Women are adept at brandishing the sharpest words in order to shame, demean and belittle their man. Words are like toothpaste. Once they are out, there is no getting them back in. Regardless of how sorry you are afterward, the damage has been done.

2. Having unrealistic expectations: Seeking fulfillment from one person, and projecting your unhappiness onto him when he doesn't measure up will quickly destroy your marriage. If you feel unhappy, first examine reality. You will be happier if you shape your expectations to fit the reality of your situation. Expecting your spouse or children to make you happy is unrealistic. Make yourself happy.

3. Using sarcastic and critical statements, gestures, and facial expressions. This is a quick and easy way to show your husband that you don't respect him or his opinion. Men can become overwhelmed by the barrage of criticism coming at them. The result is they shut down, withdraw, and seek kindness and approval elsewhere.

4. Criticize him, make fun of him and belittle him to your friends and family: Not only will this diminish your husband in your eyes, it will poison those closest to you. You force them to take sides, and of course they choose your side, because they want to be loyal to you. They will not look at your husband the same. Once you are over your tirade, they will still be mad at him. Your close friendships and relationships will remain irreparably altered against your husband, in time, this can destroy your marriage.

5. Withhold affection and sex: Men are wired differently than women. They need physical release through sexual intimacy. When you refuse to meet that need, you are making a much deeper statement; you do not care about or respect his needs. As much as you need emotional release and closeness, he is wired to need physical release and closeness. Neither is wrong. You are just different. While you want your emotional needs met, it is important not to lose sight of his needs. Think of it this way; what if he stopped talking to you for three days? How about a week? What if he didn't talk to you for a month? Unconscionable. Likewise, it is unfair for you to cut him off from what he needs.

6. Disrespecting his insight, opinions and advice: Men are fixers. By nature, if you present a problem, he will come up with concrete steps to solve the problem. When you are dismissive, it sends the message that you do not value him. If you just want to bitch and complain, call a girlfriend. Girlfriends are great listeners. They will not try to fix you. If you must whine at your husband, tell him upfront that you don't need a solution, just an ear to hear. Sometimes, you might actually follow his advice. It could just work.

7. Undermining his authority, but demanding he take full responsibility: In any organization, there must be a leader, someone in charge. The head over the whole organization, who says, "The buck stops here." Typically, the person who carries the responsibility ought to be the one who has the final say. Don't become so focused on your own feelings and fears (i.e. I'm afraid he'll make a bad decision. I feel like I make better decisions) to override his feelings and fears (i.e. I am responsible to take care of the family. I'm afraid no one in the family respects me.) Be gracious in light of his decision making. You can respectfully disagree with a decision without attacking his ability to lead.

8. Never being happy: One of the quickest ways to destroy your marriage is to spend all your time acting miserable and unhappy. The goal of marriage should be peace and happiness. It is to this end that you have an obligation to be happy. If the goal is to be happily married, it is up to you to exercise self control. There is no need to express every angry, bitter or resentful thought. By owning your own problems, you can take responsibility for your own happiness. Each day, work on bringing your best self into the relationship. Regardless of what happens, you are only one thought away from peace.

9. Demoralizing him and crushing his spirit: If asked, most men believe their wives to be more moral and spiritual than themselves. Often, the wife agrees. She does not see herself as sinful or wrong. She feels her greatest "sins" lie in being deeply disappointed by her husband's failures and her children's shortcomings. Beyond this, wives typically admit to bad behaviour and attitudes, but attribute it to hormones, chemical imbalances and a dysfunctional childhood. Woe to the husband who dares suggest his lovely bride could use improvement in some aspect of her life. Labelled a heartless, uncaring, unrighteous lout, he is silenced by an angered, wounded wife, cloaked in self-righteous indignation. She then feels perfectly justified in attacking every flaw, magnifying every misstep and pointing out every failure, until he feels ashamed for living. You are not your husbands holy spirit. Stop trying to correct every little flaw you perceive in his character and set about removing the blinding plank from your own eye.

10. Picking the wrong man. Again. And again. You meet a man. You like him. You start dating. Then you begin to notice the tiny flaws. The chinks in his armour. He yells, just like your dad did. He drinks and becomes abusive. He is mean to your kids. "It's o.k., " you tell yourself, "I'll fix him after we get married." Stop right there. There is no fixing it. The man you date will be the same man after you are married. Inherently kind? He'll still be kind. Addicted to pornography? He'll still be addicted. You cannot change the basic nature of other people. You cannot love them into changing. You cannot nag or pout or complain them into changing. If the relationship feels unhealthy during dating, getting married will not fix it. He will not magically become more responsible, more reliable, or more loving after you marry him. So if you want a good husband, find a good man, date him, and marry him.

While this list may seem daunting, it is important to remember that the main goal of marriage should be peace and happiness. If life is stressful, work on changing your perception. You can see peace instead of stress. You are only one thought away from a peaceful life. If you feel unhappy, seek those thing that will fulfill you in life. Just be happy. The simplest route to something is to just be. The only person you can change is yourself.

by Deborah Demander
Source- http://justsayingbylase.blogspot.com/2011/11/top-10-things-women-do-to-destroy-their.html

Man ships himself home to parents in crate

Criminal charges were filed by Federal Prosecutors against a man who climbed into a crate and had himself shipped by air from New York to Dallas to visit his parents. Charles D. McKinley was charged with stowing away on a cargo jet. McKinley, a 25-year-old shipping clerk at a New York warehouse, journeyed overnight about 1,500 miles by truck, plane and delivery van before startling his parents by popping out of the box at their home. A driver for Pilot Air Freight, picked up the crate at Dallas-Fort Worth Airport and delivered it to McKinley's parents' home in suburban DeSoto. When the driver went to unload the 350-pound crate from his truck, he saw a pair of eyes and thought there was a body inside. Then McKinley broke the box open and crawled out, said police Lt. Brian Windham. McKinley's mother was stunned. The delivery driver called police. McKinley's escapade occurred as Americans prepared to mark the second anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks, and it renewed debate over the air cargo system's vulnerability to terrorists. "It certainly shows that we have more work to do on cargo security," Asa Hutchinson, the Homeland Security Department's undersecretary for transportation security, told ABC.

Federal officials were puzzled how McKinley got past airport security at several points, and investigators with the Transportation Security Administration interviewed him in jail. McKinley said he was homesick and looking for a cheap way to visit his parents when he squeezed himself into the crate. It measured 42 by 36 by 15 inches. He is 5-foot-8 and weighs 170 pounds. He told the NBS "Today" show that he was "scared and nervous" when he was nailed into the crate. "This is the dumbest thing and the craziest thing I could ever do within my life," he added. "I was short of cash and truthfully I really should've waited." McKinley was arrested and jailed on unrelated traffic and bad-check charges after the surprised deliveryman notified police in the Dallas suburb of DeSoto. A number of companies were involved in handling McKinley's crate. All of them explained they followed security procedures. UPS picked up the crate at the warehouse where McKinley worked. Pilot Air Freight took the box to Kennedy Airport, then it was trucked to Newark, N.J., and loaded on a Kitty Hawk Cargo plane. After stops in Niagara Falls, N.Y., and Fort Wayne, Ind., it landed in Dallas, where a deliveryman for Pilot Air Freight took it to the home of McKinley's parents. The box was carried in pressurized, heated cabins, but could just as easily have been placed in the lower, unpressurized holds, according to Richard G. Phillips, chief executive of Pilot Air Freight. "He could easily have died," Phillips said.

Riana Development Foundation Network (Riana) is pleased to be working in partnership with Global Xchange to bring diaspora youth volunteers and national youth volunteers together in Kenya. Ten young diapora volunteers will be volunteering for 3 months at local community organisations in Kenya  alongside ten from the UK as part of the Global Xchange programme.  Global Xchange teams up 18-22 year olds from the UK and from the developing world to work together both here and abroad. All twenty volunteers will also spend 3 months in Kenya volunteering in a local community.
 
Global Xchange is an international volunteering exchange programme run by the British Council, VSO and local partners all over the world. The programme in Kenya will be implemented in partnership with the  Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports (MOYAS) integrated into their National Youth Volunteer Service scheme. This year the programme will be part of the government funding pilot volunteering scheme ICS. This is the first time that Global Xchange has worked so closely with local UK partners to run the programme and we are excited about the opportunities this presents to local people and organisations.
 
The team will arrive in April 2012 and will be living with host families and the projects they will be working on will be generating the following benefits;
·         Youth gaining skills through involvement in county development committees including county resource allocation committees.
·         National Kenyan Youth volunteering on the scheme retained for employment in at least 20% of the placements.
·         National Kenyan Youth accessing youth fund and other county funding bodies for their business ventures.
·         Community ownership of projects started by ICS volunteers.
·         Cross cultural learning on both sides and skills for working in international partnership developed by diaspora volunteers.
 
 
www.globalxchange.org.uk  For more  information please contact Rodgers Orero on 02085801043 Mob: 07970037156 Rodgers@riana.org.uk

S&P threatens euro zone, EU chief urges bigger fund

(Reuters) - Standard & Poor's fired a second warning shot at the euro zone in 24 hours, threatening on Tuesday to cut the credit rating of its financial rescue fund as European leaders raced to find a political solution to their sovereign debt crisis. German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Nicolas Sarkozy want to change EU rules to impose mandatory penalties on euro zone states that exceed deficit targets, aiming to restore market trust and prevent the crisis spiralling out of control. Visiting U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner said after talks in Berlin he was encouraged by recent moves towards fiscal union in Europe and stressed the central role of the European Central Bank (ECB) in tackling the crisis. Citing "continuing disagreements among European policy makers on how to tackle the immediate market confidence crisis," S&P put the ratings of 15 countries, including Germany and France, on review late on Monday for a downgrade by 1-2 notches. The U.S.-based agency went a step further on Tuesday, placing the top-notch rating of the euro zone's 440 billion euro (378.4 billion pound) rescue fund, the European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF), on negative watch since it depends on the creditworthiness of the currency bloc's six AAA-rated sovereigns. European Council President Herman Van Rompuy, who will chair a crucial summit of the 27-nation European Union this week aimed at turning the corner on the crisis, proposed giving a bigger permanent euro zone rescue mechanism the status of a bank that would allow it to access ECB funding.

Kenyan stocks hit a 26-month low, shilling firms

Kenyan stocks extended a four-week fall to hit a 26-month low on Monday, dragged down by banks after investors dumped shares on the expectation that high interest rates could hurt the sector's performance, while the shilling firmed against the dollar. The central bank last Thursday raised its benchmark rate by 1.5 percentage points to 18 percent, the fourth rise in a row to fight persistent inflation and exchange rate volatility. The benchmark NSE-20 Share Index fell 0.99 percent to 3,072.38 points, a level it last touched on Oct. 29, 2009, when it closed at 3066.01 points, according to Reuters data. "Investors were ditching mostly banking stocks on concern that high interest rates will eat into their performance in the fourth quarter as non-performing loans rise," said Caleb Mutai,an analysts at Tsavo Securities. "Guys are also selling for the holidays. We could close the year below 3,000 points. Nothing can stop it now."  Kenyan stocks have lost a third of their value this year against a backdrop of soaring inflation, which hit 19.72 percent in November and a shilling that had been depreciating for most of the year.

Share in Barclays Bank fell 3.0 percent to 11.2 shillings, while CFC Stanbic Bank was down 3.8 percent to 38.5 shillings a share. In the foreign exchange market, the Kenyan shilling firmed against the dollar on the back of interbank greenback selling, coupled by slowed exporters' demand for the U.S currency, traders said. They said the tight monetary stance taken by the central bank to help cool inflation had made the shilling more attractive, taking a cue from the relatively high interbank rates at 24.7 percent as of Friday. At the 1300 GMT market close, commercial banks quoted the shilling at 89.35/55, firmer than Friday's close of 89.65/85. "There wasn't any dollar demand in the market. Whatever banks bought from the market, they offloaded it to the interbank so that kept the shilling firmer," Ignatius Chicha, head of markets at Citi, said. Traders had expected the central bank to mop up shillings, after it came into the market for 4.25 billion shillings ($47.1million) on Friday, but the bank stayed out on Monday. A trader from a commercial bank who did not want to be named said there was some liquidity which had trickled in from the government for recurrent expenditure, which he said would prompt the central bank to mop up. In fixed income, corporates and government bonds worth 792 million shillings ($8.8 million) were traded, down from 1.5 billion shillings on Friday.

Yes, I am Kenyan landlady

"Hi Mr. Seed - This is what one fellow Kenyan landlady in Coventry, UK did  - plucking the toilet from her house that I was renting and  cutting water for us to move out after the notice to move out ran out on 30th November 2011. She and  her hubby came on 1st  December  made the house inhabitable so we had to leave with kids at midnight and  were taken to emergency accommodation by council and we are there upto now waiting to be housed."

Floods render villagers homeless

A man sits with his child on a rock at his flooded homestead minutes before they were evacuated by an emergency team in Rwambwa area of Siaya County on December 05, 2011. Hundreds of homes have been submerged as floods roar downstream.  Just when they thought it was all over, it has started again. After four years of lull, raging floods are back to haunt Budalang’i residents. In the past years, theirs had been an annual deluge that had deluded all intervention. The reinforcement of the dykes was been credited for the temporary relief, but this year, they could not hold any more.

Homes, farm, schools, police stations, places of worship and health clinics are just some of the institutions that have been marooned in Nyanza and Western provinces. Due to the heavy rains, rivers Kuja, Nyando, Nzoia and Sondu Miriu are over flowing, spilling into homes death and destruction. Men, women and children who only days are ago were looking forward to a fun filled end year have gloom written all over their faces as they wait for handouts from the government. - Daily Nation.

Journalists barred from Kirima estate hearing

Journalists were on Monday barred from covering the hearing of former Starehe MP Gerishon Kirima’s estate dispute as claims were made that his third wife was married to a Tanzanian MP. Justice David Maraga threw out the media during the determination of whether Ms Teresia Wairimu was married to Mr Stephen Hillary Ngonyani, a sitting MP in Tanzania. One of Mr Kirima’s daughters, Ms Anne Wangari Kirima, swore an affidavit claiming Ms Wairimu was never married to her father. She said when Ms Wairimu was living with her father, she assumed the name of Aisha Shedrak and married Mr Ngonyani, alias Maji Marefu in September 2003. She claims the ceremony was solemnised through Islamic law at Korogwe in Tanga region of Tanzania and supported her claim with a copy of a marriage certificate. Ms Wangari said the original marriage certificate was found in a suitcase with Ms Wairimu’s documents at Mr Kirima’s Kitisuru home. “The signature of Aisha Shedrak has been confirmed by forensic examiners to belong to Teresia Wairimu,” said Ms Wangari. She says since Ms Wairimu’s father was Shedrak Ndei, she chose to be called Aisha Shedrak to conform to the Muslim system. She said Ms Wairimu continued to relate with Mr Ngonyani and transferred to him half of a prime property in Nairobi. She alleges that after the marriage, Ms Wairimu sent Sh5.1 million to Mr Ngonyani and has annexed copies of printouts showing mobile money transactions between Ms Wairimu and Mr Ngonyani. “When my father discovered that she was married to someone else, he divorced her and instructed his brother, Mr James Njuguna, to return her to her father’s home,” she states. – Daily Nation.

NEW KENYAN IDs LAUNCHED IN LONDON

The director of director of National Registration Mr. Reuben M. Kimotho (left) and Hon. Minister of State for Immigration And Registration Of Persons, Hon. Gerald Otieno Kajwang, MP (right) during the launching Kenyan ID in London

The new Kenyan Identity Cards were launched in London on Monday 5th December, 2011 by  Hon. Minister of State for Immigration And Registration Of Persons, Hon. Gerald Otieno Kajwang, MP and Mr Rueben Kimotho, Director of National Registration Bureau. The ceremony took place at the offices of the Kenya High Commission in London. The director and the minister were welcomed by the Kenya High Commissioner in London HE Ephraim Ngare. The commissioner explained that Kenyans in UK were delighted that the minister was able to find time out to come and inaugurate London as a National Identity Cards Issuing Office. He also asked the minister to consider in future other services provided by his ministry such as the issue of Birth Certificates, could be brought closer to the Kenyans in Diaspora here in London.

Kenya One - The High Commisisoner and his wife Mrs. Jane were first to be issued with the IDs byMinister Hon. Kajwang

The director of director of National Registration Mr. Reuben M. Kimotho explained that the cards are new and they are the first to be issued in London.  He continued to explain that all Kenyans in Kenya and outside Kenya will now change their IDs to the new plastic which are durable. He said that Kenyans should not fear that the data of the IDs might be shared with other governments. He continued to say that there is data protection in Kenya which is guaranteed by the new constitution. Before issuing the new IDs to 22 Kenyans in UK at the ceremony, Hon. Minister of State for Immigration And Registration Of Persons, Hon. Gerald Otieno Kajwanj explained that his ministry will extend this services to USA and one more station in Europe as there has been a problem with issuing of UK visa to those living in other parts of Europe. The minister concluded his speech by saying that the scheme is targeting the young Kenyans who came to the UK before they were 18 years and those who have lost their Identity Cards. Among those who were issued with the new IDs were the High Commissioner and his wife Mrs. Jane Ngare, the Deputy High Commissioner Ms Jackline Rumumba Yonga, several staffs of High Commissioner, Mr. Seed and his wife Pastor Jane Njiiri, Bishop Wahenga, Rev. Kibathi of PCEA and the ID's boss Mr. Mwaura among others.

OTHERS ISSUED WITH THE CARDS AT THE LAUNCHING

From left receiving their New Identity Cards from the minister are Mr. Mwaura, Mr. Seed and Pastor Jane Njiiri

From left to right is Bishop Waihenya, DK Kamanu and Mrs. Nora Ngare (more photos later)

A SAMPLE OF THE NEW KENYA ID

The new Kenyan Identity Card is plastic and resembles UK Driving Licence

DO YOU KNOW?: Currently there are over 15 Kenyan children in UK jails

WELCOMING REMARKS BY  H.E. EPHRAIM W. NGARE AT THE COMMISSIONING OF THE

ISSUANCE OF NATIONAL IDENTITY CARDS CEREMONY,  MONDAY, 5TH DECEMBER, 2011

§  Hon. Minister of State for Immigration And Registration Of Persons, Hon. Gerald Otieno Kajwanj, MP;

§  Mr Rueben Kimotho, Director of National Registration Bureau

§  Invited Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen

Honourable Minister,
 
 Please allow me to take this opportunity to officially welcome you and your accompanying delegation, to the Kenya High Commission, London.

 We are indeed most delighted that you were able to find time out of your busy schedule, to come and personally preside over our today’s ceremony to inaugurate London as a National Identity Cards Issuing Office. Your presence here today, is a clear testimony of the importance that your Ministry attaches to the ceremony that you are presiding over here today! We thank you very much for that Hon. Minister.

 As you are aware, the U.K. is a destination of choice for many Kenyans due to the long standing friendly relations which exists between Kenya and UK, and also the deep rooted historical ties, common language, business ties and work opportunities etc.,
 
 The UK also holds a fairly sizeable concentration of Kenyan Diaspora and who require National Identity Cards, bearing in mind that it is required for virtually every transaction in Kenya. Many Kenyans living abroad have faced difficulties in the past, as they try to purchase land, houses, open bank accounts - to mention but a few examples because they don’t have National Identity Cards!
 
 This is a loss to the individual and the commulative effect of this is, a loss to our country as it holds back investment money which is readily available from diaspora investors.
 
 Opening London as a Registration Office for processing of National Identity Cards, is, therefore, indeed a milestone in our Consular Service Delivery.
 
 In future, too, other core services provided by your Ministry such as the issue of Birth Certificates, could be brought closer to the Kenyan Diaspora here in London too!
 
 Honourable Minister,
 
 It is now my greatest pleasure and duty, to invite you to address Kenyans here in London, and also to officially commission this London Mission as a Registration Office for purposes of processing National Identity Cards.
 
 Thank you Hon. Minister
 
 Kenya High Commission
 
 London
 

Pandas will cost £8m to conserve

They’re the first giant pandas to live in the UK for 17 years, but housing Sweetie and Sunshine comes at a whopping cost. China has been leasing pandas to other countries as ‘gifts’ for years but this generosity comes at a price, with the burden of paying for the continuous conservation of the animals shifted from China to their new homes. Edinburgh Zoo has apparently already forked out £250,000 on a nifty enclosure for new furry residents – originally named Tian Tian and Yang Guang. Their new abode includes a pool, a cave and has been specially kitted out with bullet-proof glass. But the costs don’t end there, with reports that the pandas will cost a total of £640,000 a year and over the next 10 years (the period they are on loan to the UK), with the total bill to the Scottish zoo put at almost £8 million.

Doctors strike enters day two

The crisis occasioned by the doctors strike entered the second day tuesday as services at public hospitals remained paralyzed. Patients at the Kenyatta National Hospital were subjected to long queues as doctors kept away.  Patients in the cancer wards bore the brunt of the strike since their treatment  can only be administered by a doctor.  The government is expected to address the media over the crisis this afternoon. Meanwhile as the strike entered day two Eldoret North MP William Ruto is blaming medical services and Public health ministries for the strike.  He accused them of focusing on politics at the expense of services. The countrywide strike has seen public hospitals forced to withdraw services.  Doctors in other provinces also joined the strike with nurses left with the hard task of attending to patients as doctors, pharmacists and dentists took to the streets to demand for better pay.

At the Maralal District Hospital, Samburu County no doctor reported to work by Tuesday morning and the offices remained closed. Only nurses and clinical Officers were seen in the hospital premises. Acting Medical Officer of Health, Mr. Simon Lemooge disclosed that, the out-patient and in-patient clients in Maralal District Hospital are attended to from time to time even though the services are not flowing as usual. He added that doctors are ready to avail themselves in case of any emergencies in the hospital. The strike dubbed as ‘Linda afya' started on Monday with the doctors union swearing to pursue until its demands are met. In Nairobi doctors went on peaceful demonstrations on Monday starting from Kenyatta National Hospital towards Afya House and later to Treasury house.  No death has been reported so far but the strike is being held nationally with most services in government hospitals coming to a standstill as a result of the ongoing strike. - CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

Britain braces for sleet and snow this week

While many ski slopes across Europe are without snow, many parts of northern Britain welcomed the first major snow spell of the winter this weekend – and forecasters are issuing a UK snow warning for the rest of this week. After the second warmest November on record, weather warnings are in force across the Scottish Highlands, Northern Ireland, North Wales and northern England today for sleet, snow and treacherous driving conditions. The Met Office has predicted that as much as six-inches of snow could fall across northern parts with wintry showers expected to spread as far south as the Midlands over the next 24 hours. The big chill will cause day time temperatures across Scotland and the north to drop to a chilly low of 2°C. The Met office has also issued a UK snow warning for travel disruption as night time temperatures could struggle above freezing causing icy road conditions. Last night, temperatures in Scotland reached lows of -7°C.  On Monday morning, a lorry driver was killed after he skidded off a trunk road in wintry conditions on the A160 in North Lincolnshire. Speaking with Yahoo! News today, Met Office forecaster Dan Williams said the north of the country can expect to see wintry showers with up to 10cm of snow falling across higher ground as a cold arctic air stream from the north west sweeps across the UK.  He added that there is a north south divide with cold temperatures and wintry conditions in the northern half of the UK with the south seeing average temperatures and sunny spells.  During the middle of the week, the risk of snow will subside as the warmer air from the Atlantic brings milder conditions. However, the weather could turn colder and windier towards the end of the week with the potential for even more snowfall.

Kenya receives heaviest rainfall in 5 decades

The Kenya Meteorological Department says the country has received some of the heaviest rainfall in five decades.  Deputy Director of Meteorological Services Peter Ambenje says the rainfall received during the short rains season can only be compared to what was realized in 1960.  He however says the country should begin seeing a reduction in rainfall amounts in the coming weeks even as several areas have reported floods, deaths due to flooding and mass displacements.  This came even as the Red Cross launched an appeal to assist those displaced by raging floods. Ambenje says some rivers including River Nzoia burst its banks causing serious flooding while River Tana flooded displacing people in parts of Garissa.  Ambenje says the rain could reduce in amounts but the cessation is only expected in the coming weeks.

"Some parts of the country have surpassed their  long term means making it the wettest season since 1960," said Ambenje and added, "this is not an El Nino year it is just that the conditions over the Indian Ocean have made it possible to have the heavy rainfall due to the easterly winds that are blowing moisture into our region." The Deputy Director of Meteorological Services noted that with the current rains having exceeded the long term means in most areas the ground is soggy and any little amount falling could easily cause flooding or mudslides in hilly areas. Red Cross has described the floods as one of the worst witnessed in Kenya's history launching an appeal to those displaced. Several areas of the country have had to grapple with a near crisis as floods hit falling heavy downpours. Areas that have been dry including Garissa and Wajir have seen rainfall amounts rise eight times the usual amounts received in the areas. The various cessation periods are; Nyanza and Western Counties: represented by Kakamega, Busia, Kitale, Eldoret, Kisii, Kericho, Kisumu, Nyamira, Gucha, Kuria, etc are expected to continue experiencing rainfall during the first week of October spreading from the month of September. The rains are likely to cease during the fourth week of December.

The rainfall is, however, likely to continue into January in areas around Kisii; North Rift: The onset in the Northwestern parts of the country (Lodwar, Lokitaung, Lokkichogio etc) is expected during the first to second week of October while cessation is expected in the first to second week of December; Extreme northern parts of Eastern and Northeastern Counties: (Moyale, Mandera, Sololo etc) are expected to experience their onsets in the first to second week of October.  The rains are likely to cease during the first to second week of December; Central Counties and Counties in southern parts of Eastern and Northeastern parts of the country: Central Highlands (Meru, Embu, Nyeri, Murang'a, Nanyuki etc); Nairobi area (Dagoretti, Kabete, Eastleigh etc); Northeastern (Wajir, Garissa, Marsabit etc) will experience their onsets in the third to fourth week of October.

The rains are likely to cease during the third to fourth week of December; Central Rift: The northern parts of Central Rift Valley (Nakuru, Nyahururu etc) are likely to experience their onset during the first to second week of October and the cessation during the third to fourth week of December. The onset in southern parts (Narok, Kajiado etc) is likely to occur in the first week of November and extend into January 2011, especially in the Narok areas; Southern parts of Eastern Province and parts of Coast Province: The southeastern lowlands (Voi, Taveta, Makindu, Tana River) are likely to realize the onset during the third to fourth week of October. The cessation is expected during the third to fourth week of December; Coastal Strip: Onset over the southern Coastal strip (Malindi, Mombasa, Kilifi, Mtwapa Msambweni, Lungalunga, etc) is expected during the first to second week of October and cessation during the second to third week of December.  The northern Coastal strip (Lamu etc) will experience the onset during the fourth weak of October to 1st week of November while the cessation is expected during the first to second week of December.

Broken to be Made Whole

A journey of loss, pain, brokenness & restoration

A Kenyan lady in Kenya Winnie Thuku has written a book with a difference entitled "Broken to be Made Whole". Winnie Thuku explains about her book: "The book is a true testimony of how God saved my life after doctors had given a report that I was going to die. This was after my placenta ruptured in my 8th month of pregnancy, and not knowing, I bled internally for a whole before I went into labour only to be told that my baby had died, and I was also going to die any minute due to loss of blood. To make matters, my BP shot up when I received the news and a CS operation was not an option, yet my baby passage also refused to open. Complication after complication, but I am alive to tell the story. Broken To Be Made Whole is a book that tells my true story. It chronicles my journey of loss, pain and brokenness after a minor accident caused the stillbirth of my baby. I developed complications and was faced with options that were fatal. I was angry at God for not preventing it and at the people around me for not understanding the extent of the pain. I was angry at society for downplaying the pain and agony mothers go through after a still birth or a miscarriage. How did I rise above the hopelessness and the nothingness? How did I move from brokenness into being whole? How did I harness my remaining ounce of strength into eternal truths that became the pillars for my progress? The most unimaginable misfortunes happen to many people, but what distinguishes them is how they handle such situations. Find out how I handled mine. Be inspired." The book costs $13.88. You can order your copy of the book at Amazon through  the link below:

http://www.amazon.com/Broken-Made-Whole-brokenness-restoration/dp/9966153608

"When the current threatens to sweep you away, stand on the rock." I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refugee, a strong tower against the foe. Psalms 61:2,3

Driver dies in UK amid wintry weather

A lorry driver has died after his vehicle left a trunk road in severe wintry conditions. The incident on the A160 in north Lincolnshire happened as police across the north of England and Scotland warned motorists to take extra care due to sleet and snow. Humberside Police said the white Scania lorry, which was fully loaded with meat, left the westbound carriageway of the road in South Killingholme at about 4.14am. A spokeswoman said road conditions in the area were quite poor at the time due to cold weather and hailstones. The driver has not been named but is believed to be from the North West. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The Met Office has issued severe weather warnings for most of Scotland as well as Northern Ireland and parts of northern England. They warn of sleet and snow showers and ice on untreated surfaces. On Sunday, Transport Scotland activated a full Multi-Agency Response Team (MART) involving all of its transport partners including rail, road and Strathclyde Police.

Astronomers discover biggest black holes ever

Scientists have discovered the two biggest black holes ever observed, each with a mass billions of times greater than the Sun's, according to a study published Monday. The two giants are located in the heart of a pair of galaxies several hundred million light years from Earth, said the study in scientific journal Nature. Each black hole is estimated to have a mass about 10 billion times greater than the sun, dwarfing the previously largest-known black hole, which has a mass of 6.3 billion suns. The University of California, Berkeley, team led by Nicholas McConnell and Chung-Pei Ma said one black hole is located in NGC 3842, the brightest of a cluster of galaxies about 320 million light years from Earth. The second hole is of "comparable or greater mass" and is located in NGC 4889, the brightest galaxy in the Coma cluster, about 335 million light years away. "These two black holes are significantly more massive than predicted," the astronomers wrote. They said their calculations suggest that different evolutionary processes influence the growth of the largest galaxies and their black holes than in smaller galaxies. Astronomers have long supposed that since the universe began it has harboured black holes with a mass the size of the two newly found giants. These cosmic gluttons grow in tandem with their galaxies, slurping up gases, planets and stars. "There is a symbiotic relationship between black holes and their galaxies that has existed since the dawn of time," Kevin Schawinski, a Yale astronomer said in a June study.

Explosion kills Kenyan policeman in Dadaab camp

An explosion killed a Kenyan police officer and wounded three on Monday 5th December, 2011 at the Dadaab refugee complex near Somalia.   Provincial police commander Leo Nyongesa said the blast was in the Ifo refugee camp, part of the wider Dadaab facility in North Eastern province that is home to more than 400,000 Somalis.  It is not clear who is behind the attack. The Kenya Red Cross also confirmed the casualties and assured that its workers based at the camp are safe.

Antarctic's hidden world revealed

Ever wondered what Antarctica would look like without all that ice? Scientists have produced the most detailed map yet of the White Continent's underbelly - its rock bed. Called simply BEDMAP, this startling view of the landscape beneath the ice incorporates decades of survey data acquired by planes, satellites, ships and even people on dog-drawn sleds. It is remarkable to think that less than 1% of this rock base projects above the continent's frozen veil. In the map at the top of this page, the highest elevations are marked in red/black. The light blue colour shows the extent of the continental shelf.  The lowest elevations are dark blue. You will note the deep troughs within the interior of the continent that are far below today's sea level. The map is a fascinating perspective but it is more than just a pretty picture - it represents critical knowledge in the quest to understand how Antarctica might respond to a warming world. Scientists are currently reporting significant changes at the margins of the continent, with increasing volumes of ice now being lost to the ocean, raising global sea levels. The type of information contained in BEDMAP will help researchers forecast the pace of future events.

"This is information that underpins the models we now use to work out how the ice flows across the continent," explained Hamish Pritchard from the British Antarctic Survey (BAS).  "The Antarctic ice sheet is constantly supplied by falling snow, and the ice flows down to the coast where great bergs calve into the ocean or it melts. It's a big, slow-speed hydrological cycle.  "To model that process requires knowledge of some complex ice physics but also of the bed topography over which the ice is flowing - and that's BEDMAP." Dr Pritchard is presenting the new imagery on Monday to the 2011 American Geophysical Union (AGU) Fall Meeting, the world's largest annual gathering of Earth and planetary scientists. This is actually the second generation of the digital BEDMAP. The first version, which was produced in 2001, incorporated 1.9 million measurement points. For BEDMAP2, the sampling has been raised to more than 27 million points on a grid spacing of 5km. "It's like you've brought the whole thing now into sharp focus," Dr Pritchard told BBC News. "In many areas, you can now see the troughs, valleys and mountains as if you were looking at a part of the Earth we're much more used to seeing, exposed to the air." The source data comes from a range of international partners. Dr Pritchard and BAS colleagues Peter Fretwell and David Vaughan have merged it all into a single product.

Electoral team works so Kenyans living abroad can vote next year

The electoral commission is drawing up legislation to enable an estimated three million Kenyans living abroad to vote in the 2012 General Election.   Acting Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission Chief Executive Officer James Oswago confirmed that the commission was developing guidelines on how these Kenyans living abroad will participate in the 2012 polls. Among other things, the proposed legislation will determine whether they would vote only for president or would also vote for governors, senators, MPs and ward representatives. “The Constitution talks about the progressive registration of Kenyans living abroad as voters and the progressive realisation of their right to vote. What this means is that we will have to start from somewhere. We are working on legislation to determine whether they will have to travel to Kenya to vote or if they will vote from wherever they are,” Mr Oswago said.

Outside the country

“The legislation will also determine ... how many years one will have had to live outside the country to qualify to vote. So what is clear is that not all Kenyans living abroad will be able to vote in the next elections,” he said. The IEBC is also expected to conduct a voter registration exercise that will include Kenyans living abroad. Speaking when the former Interim Independent Electoral Commission (IIEC) was handing over its exit report to the IEBC last week, elections boss Ahmed Isaack Hassan said the new electoral body’s priority is to register eight million new voters and create 80 new constituencies. This is the clearest indication that the more than three million Kenyans living abroad will be able to vote in the 2012 elections. The anticipated move has jolted some presidential aspirants into action, with some already setting up secretariats to map out ways to market their policies to this voting bloc. Three of the presidential aspirants, Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka and Planning assistant minister Peter Kenneth, have spent the better part of last month meeting with and pushing their platforms to Kenyans living abroad. Mr Odinga and Mr Kenneth have established a diaspora desk in their secretariats fully dedicated to listening to and addressing the concerns of Kenyans living abroad. Mr Musyoka was in the UK last month where he opened a PNU office in London to coordinate the party’s connections with Kenyans living in Europe.  Speaking to Kenyans gathered at the Krystel Hall, Hillford, East London, the VP announced he would be seeking the presidential nomination from PNU’s affiliate parties.

Official visit

Mid last month, Mr Kenneth, while on an official visit to Japan, held two meetings with Kenyans based there.  Mr. Kenneth first met Kenyans living in Kyoto at the Rhiga Royal Hotel before holding another meeting at Nishitetsu Grand Hotel with Kenyans living in Fukuoka city a day later.  He has also visited the United States twice this year and held several meetings with Kenyans. “The huge diaspora vote bank of millions is a vital constituency for candidates, and if effective arrangements are made by the IEBC for most of them to vote easily, they will play an important role in electing the next President,” said Mr Odinga’s advisor Salim Lone. “Diasporans are also important sources of campaign finance, and of course their high level of education and standing within their Kenyan communities makes them influential opinion moulders. These attributes also make them less subject to the political and ethnic divisions at home ... we should not underestimate the diasporan voting impact,” he added. He noted that Mr Odinga’s international and pan-African orientation has seen him develop links with foreign pro-democracy leaders that have enabled him to establish an unrivalled diaspora network and to rely on Kenyans in various countries to facilitate the organisation of his trips. “During the 2007 campaign and much more so afterwards, he received numerous proposals from supporters overseas keen to have him set up a diaspora affairs office that would better mobilise and channel their remittances home as a way of bolstering the national economy,” Mr Lone said. In London, the Vice-President called on the diaspora to support his bid for the presidency, saying he had the right credentials to lead the country to the next level after President Kibaki completes his term.

Seeking nomination

“I will be seeking the nomination of my party and its affiliates to run for president in the forthcoming general elections. In so doing, I will be seeking to secure the achievements we have attained so far under President Kibaki’s leadership, and beyond that, to open new vistas, new horizons, and reach higher goals in the pursuit of democratic ideals, social and economic prosperity,” he said. Mr Musyoka also suggested that legislation be enacted to allow for the representation of Kenyans in the diaspora at Parliament and Senate level.  Speakers at the function called for the appointment of Cabinet secretaries from the diaspora.  – Sunday Nation.

US unemployment rate falls sharply to 8.6%

The US unemployment rate dropped sharply to 8.6% in November, its lowest level in two-and-a-half years, from 9% the month before, official figures show. The US economy added 120,000 new jobs in November, the Department of Labor said, in line with forecasts. The number of jobs created in September and October was revised up by 72,000. The US has struggled for many months with slow growth while the unemployment rate has remained stubbornly high. One of the reasons for the sharp drop in the unemployment rate in November was the large number of people who gave up looking for work, and therefore were no longer counted as part of the workforce. The report helped the US market to open higher, with the Dow Jones index climbing 0.8% in early trading.

WORD OF TODAY

Ecclesiastes 9:16

Guiding Your Kids Through the Tough Years

Ecclesiastes 9:16 reads: “So I said, "Wisdom is better than strength." But the poor man's wisdom is despised, and his words are no longer heeded.” Are you raising a teenager? Welcome to the tough years! There's nothing wrong with you, you're just parenting an adolescent. You say, 'But they are just ten, this craziness shouldn't be happening yet!' Sorry, but now they develop faster! Puberty hits them between ten and twelve years of age, and learning how this accelerated genetic mix functions is vital to good parenting. So here are some helpful updates: 1) Some of your old ways aren't likely to work anymore. What worked with young kids frequently fails with older ones. Do you remember when raising your voice to your seven-year-old brought instant obedience? Try that with your hormone-charged teen-and get ready for battle! Teenage chemistry defies the old logic, so learn what makes them tick, pray for grace and respond based on what works, not what doesn't. If you treat teens like pre-teens you will get nowhere! 2) What didn't come naturally, can be learned. Those 'model parents' you heard about are either understating it, enjoying a short-term break, or they earned their stripes the hard way. It's not easy. You learn to do it well by first doing it poorly, then doing it better, then asking God to do what you can't. And He will! 3) Your only unforgivable mistake is the one you won't acknowledge. Your children know you're not flawless and they can handle it. They also know how big you have to be to admit it, and they're quick to forgive. So forget modelling perfection; just show them, humbly and constructively, how to handle it when they've been imperfect!

I take this opportunity to invite you in our pray Conference Prayer every Morning from 6-7a.m. call this local number in UK Tel  02030042084 pin No.67299# and you will be able to join us for prayers. It is a free number with landline in UK.

Our Guest Singer today is Solomon Mukubwa - CLICK HERE

UK banks charging as much as 800,000% on overdrafts

Some High Street banks are charging "eye-watering" rates of interest when their customers go over their overdraft limit, research by Radio 4's Money Box programme has revealed. A customer borrowing £100 for 28 days without the consent of Santander would repay £200, for example. That is the equivalent annualised percentage rate, or APR, of 819,100%. Eric Leenders, from the British Banking Association, said that the industry was willing to look at concerns. But he said that using APRs to calculate the cost of unauthorised borrowing was a "mathematical manipulation" because the fees are representative of borrowing on an overdraft facility, not for borrowing the specific amount of money. Mike Dailly, from the Govan Law Centre, said the government must review unauthorised overdraft charges. "What we've got here is banks with equivalent APRs of nearly one million percent. It really is eye-watering."

High cost

Comparisons between banks and so-called payday lenders showed that the annualised percentage rate charged for borrowing £100 over 28 days varied from 969% to 819,100%.  No payday loan lender charged an APR of more than 5,000% but two banks - Santander and Lloyds TSB - charged an equivalent APR of more than 300,000%.  Santander told the BBC: "It's is confusing to compare payday loans with overdrafts on current accounts because an unauthorised overdraft charge is for unauthorised use of a current account while a payday loan is an agreed loan facility."

Barclays would charge a customer using a personal reserve - a pre-agreed emergency borrowing facility - £22 for every five consecutive working days they were in it. This means customers would pay £88 on top of the £100 capital after 28 days - an equivalent APR of 366,000% Mr Dailly said the situation is worrying for consumers. "The Romans 2,500 years ago managed to cap lending charges at 8%," he said. "States in America have outlawed payday loans and effectively capped the cost of lending. These companies have come over to our country and they've said they want to operate in our deprived communities because that's where their business is."  Money Box has received a steady stream of emails from bank customers this year complaining about the level of charges.  One of them, Marc Daffern, from Stamford, was told he had accrued £775 in charges for an unpaid direct debit of £6.99 from his bank, NatWest. He said: "I was offered to be allowed to pay it off at the lower amount of around £400 but I wasn't willing to do so because as far as I'm concerned I shouldn't owe them any of this money in the first place." NatWest said that it is investigating Mr Daffern's complaint.

MEN JOINED CATWALK TO MARK WORLD'S AIDS DAY

Mrs. Janet Wainaina of AfricaActs London was on the frontline to mark World HIV/Aids day in London on Friday night 2nd December, 2011. The colourful event took place at Castle green, Gale Street, Dagenham, Essex, UK. The night of film, theatre and Global catwalk was a night to remember! Delighted that GLOBAL CATWALK Models from Sweden, Finland  and America featured at the event “Get viral against HIV” Alasia Ballard from America's Next Top Model arrives tonight! Come join her to walk the talk. They will were accompanied by 20 female models and 7 male models. Designers include Anoosh from ITV models and misfit and the model coach is the international supermodel Catwalk professor! Wow! Other entertainments include Zambian international artists, Icon City Belly Dancer, teenage Rap artist Lil Sims, International Gospel dancers and theatre show! The event at Dagenham  kicked off at 5.30pm. The long awaited film screening of Unseen, unsung unforgotten, a Kenyan film about living with HIV was screen at 7pm. A large number of teenagers aged 13 and above attended. The event is to help to give them necessary sex education! -  CLICK HERE FOR MORE PHOTOS

Men also joined the Catwalk in style CLICK HERE FOR MORE PHOTOS

A Kenyan couple in London  have lost their mother while on a UK visit

Mama na Baba Njeri - Mr. & Mrs. Njuguna (Kuchu) of 28 Rosedale Road, Dagenham, Essex, UK have lost their mum in London today. The late Mrs. Virginia Nyokabi Wahome wife of Mr. Johnson Wahome Muteithia passed away on Friday 2nd December, 2011 in their house in Dagenham. Both parents came to see their children in September this year and has been in UK for only 2 months. Our condolences goes to Mzee Wahome who was there at the time and to the entire family during this difficult time. They come from Ngorano, Karatina, Nyeri. More information to follow but meanwhile you can contact Mr. Njuguna on 07985504691.

This makes our day - KAGWACI GAKWA - CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

20 FLATS FOR SALE AT RUAKA

SALE PRICE - KSHS: 35 MILLION

15  BED-SITTERS and 5 ONE BEDROOM UNITS IN SUPERB CONDITION AND HIGH QUALITY FINISHINGS.   MONTHLY INCOME: KSHS. 200,000   0.06 ha FREEHOLD RIGHT ON THE MAIN ROAD.

ADDITIONAL SPACE FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENT WHICH PART FOUNDATION IS DONE.

PLEASE CONTACT MARTIN IN UK ON 07957600728 OR GEORGE IN KENYA ON 0734277574.

APPRECIATION

Paul Njoroge (PK of Thatched House) and his entire family would like to express our sincere and profound gratitude to the committee members, relatives, friends and all well wishers for the overwhelming love through messages of condolence, visits, financial contributions ,fellowships, text messages and above all your prayers following the demise of our dear sister last month.       

 Every one of you was highly appreciated and your generous support saw us through a very difficult time.

Since we cannot be able to thank each one of you individually, please accept this message as our heartfelt appreciation.

May the Almighty God richly bless you all.

Man eats grass Naivasha, Kenya - Swahili

CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

IKO NINI BWANA SEED ARCHIVE