Author: Lorine Otamo

Standard Chartered, in partnership with Women Win and Vijana Amani Pamoja (VAP), celebrated a decade of transformative impact through the Goal Programme, a Futuremakers by Standard Chartered initiative. A commemorative event at Standard Chartered’s Nairobi headquarters marked this milestone, recognizing the program’s success in equipping 90,679 adolescent girls and young women in Kenya with vital life skills. Launched in 2014, the Goal Programme has addressed gender inequity and promoted financial inclusion by empowering young women aged 12 to 24. Through a unique blend of sports, play, and life skills education, the program has provided training in financial literacy, leadership, health,…

A new report by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) found that peer influence is a major factor, with friends being the primary source of drug exposure for 66.4% of respondents. The study, conducted among over 15,000 students across the country, revealed that alcohol remains the most prevalent substance, consumed by 87.3% of students, followed by cigarettes (64.4%) and shisha (41.2%). The Status of Drugs and Substance Use in Kenya Universities: Sources of Drugs and Substances pic.twitter.com/ek9W19YSpA — NACADA Kenya (@NACADAKenya) February 13, 2025 The report also highlights the concerning rise in the use…

Spotify has recognized Nigerian gospel singer Sunmisola Agbebi as their EQUAL Africa Artist for February 2025, highlighting her talent and impact on the music industry. Born with a passion for music, Sunmisola began singing at a young age and has consistently pursued her musical journey. Her debut single, “Amazing,” released in 2020, marked a significant milestone. Subsequent releases like “B’Ola (Honour)” showcase her unique blend of traditional African sounds with contemporary influences, delivering heartfelt worship that resonates deeply with listeners. We sat down with Sunmisola Agbebi to learn more about her and her music. Q: What is one surprising thing…

Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL) has expanded its market portfolio by securing a distribution deal with a Namibian distillery for Windhoek beer in Kenya. KWAL is a leading manufacturer in the Kenyan alcohol industry. Its portfolio includes prestigious local and international brands, including County, Kibao, Hunter’s Choice, Savanna Cider, Kingfisher, and Amarula. This marks Windhoek Beer’s second entry into the Kenyan market. The brand previously partnered with East African Breweries Limited (EABL) but later terminated the agreement. Heineken Connection KWAL is owned by South African firm Distell Group, which holds approximately 55% of its stake. Distell Group was acquired by Dutch brewer…

The Women in Film Awards (WIFA) has launched its 6th Annual Awards, themed “Inspire Inclusion: Amplifying Voices of Marginalized Women Filmmakers.” Founded by Dr. Susan Gitimu, WIFA celebrates and promotes women in the Kenyan film industry. The awards ceremony will be held on March 8, 2025, coinciding with International Women’s Day (IWD) and its theme, “#AccelerationAction.” WIFA aims to raise the profile and empower women filmmakers by providing role models and fostering a supportive community. Voting is open now and closes on February 18, 2025. Visit my movies.Africa/wifa-voting Select your favourite nominee in each category. Submit your vote. Receive a…

Kenya is projecting a significant increase in tourist arrivals from India this year, with ambitious plans to boost visitor numbers by 20%. This follows successful promotional campaigns across major Indian cities, including Ahmedabad, Bangalore, and Kolkata, culminating in a strong presence at the Outbound Travel Mart (OTM) in Mumbai. “All indications point to a significant increase in visitor arrivals from India by the close of 2025,” said Fred Kaigwa, CEO of the Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO). The Kenyan Tourism Board (KTB) spearheads a two-month joint sales campaign with key Indian travel partners, including SOTC Travel, Make My Trip,…