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Odinga enters Presidential race

Veteran Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga to run for presidency

Raila Odinga, the 77-year-old Kenyan veteran opposition leader, has endorsed by an alliance of more than 20 political parties to contest the presidential election on August 9.

Among the parties that pledged support for Odinga’s quest for presidency in the East Africa’s largest economy was the ruling Jubilee which is headed by President Uhuru Kenyatta, reports Xinhua news agency.

For the first time in the history of Kenya, the ruling party headed by 61-year-old Kenyatta declared support for an opposition leader.

Kenyatta, in his speech at Odinga’s coronation ceremony held in Nairobi, said he had faith in his former rival, whom they shook hands in March 2018, after a vicious contest, setting the stage for an era of peace and tranquility in the country.

“I have faith in Odinga’s ability to transform this country and ensure it remained peaceful, united and a key player in regional affairs,” said Kenyatta, adding that Odinga had sacrificed personal interests to promote peace and stability in the country.

Odinga’s endorsement to run for presidency under the Azimio La Umoja (Resolution for Unity) coalition of more than 20 political parties set the stage for intensive campaigns ahead of the election.

Other political heavy weights who announced they will back Odinga’s presidential race included Kalonzo Musyoka, a one-time foreign minister and vice president who is the leader of opposition Wiper Party.

In his acceptance speech, Odinga pledged to transform the country’s economy, promote unity, cohesion and Kenya’s relations with neighbouring countries if he clinches presidency.

ALSO READ: Kenya, Zimbabwe Sign MoU

He promised to create a stand-alone ministry for the youth, roll-out tax holidays to spur growth of youth led enterprises and promote use of technology to transform agriculture in the country.

At the same time, he also vowed to fight graft in the public service, allocate adequate resources to devolved units, create a civil service that is efficient and accountable and manage public debt.

Odinga said that under his administration, Kenya would become a manufacturing powerhouse unrivalled in the African continent.

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Veteran Kenyan opposition leader endorsed to run for presidency

Veteran Kenyan opposition leader endorsed to run for presidency

Raila Odinga, the 77-year-old Kenyan veteran opposition leader, has been endorsed by an alliance of more than 20 political parties to contest the presidential election on August 9…reports Asian Lite News

Among the parties that pledged support for Odinga’s quest for presidency in the East Africa’s largest economy was the ruling Jubilee which is headed by President Uhuru Kenyatta, reports Xinhua news agency.

For the first time in the history of Kenya, the ruling party headed by 61-year-old Kenyatta declared support for an opposition leader.

Kenyatta, in his speech at Odinga’s coronation ceremony held in Nairobi, said he had faith in his former rival, whom they shook hands in March 2018, after a vicious contest, setting the stage for an era of peace and tranquility in the country.

“I have faith in Odinga’s ability to transform this country and ensure it remained peaceful, united and a key player in regional affairs,” said Kenyatta, adding that Odinga had sacrificed personal interests to promote peace and stability in the country.

Odinga’s endorsement to run for presidency under the Azimio La Umoja (Resolution for Unity) coalition of more than 20 political parties set the stage for intensive campaigns ahead of the election.

Other political heavy weights who announced they will back Odinga’s presidential race included Kalonzo Musyoka, a one-time foreign minister and vice president who is the leader of opposition Wiper Party.

ALSO READ: Kenya, Zimbabwe Sign MoU

In his acceptance speech, Odinga pledged to transform the country’s economy, promote unity, cohesion and Kenya’s relations with neighbouring countries if he clinches presidency.

He promised to create a stand-alone ministry for the youth, roll-out tax holidays to spur the growth of youth-led enterprises and promote use of technology to transform agriculture in the country.

At the same time, he also vowed to fight graft in the public service, allocate adequate resources to devolved units, create a civil service that is efficient and accountable and manage public debt.

Odinga said that under his administration, Kenya would become a manufacturing powerhouse unrivalled in the African continent.

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Africa News News UAE News

UAE, Kenya complete mangrove reforestation partnership

UAE FLAG

It aims to plant 50,000 mangrove trees in the Republic of Kenya in celebration of the UAE’s Year of the 50th and Kenya’s 2030 development vision…reports Asian Lite News

In cooperation between Aqdar, Blue Forest Company and Kenya’s forestry authorities, Khalifa Empowerment Programme Aqdar has completed the first phase of the “Fifty Tree” initiative campaign, which was launched at Aqdar World Summit Dubai Expo 2020.

It aims to plant 50,000 mangrove trees in the Republic of Kenya in celebration of the UAE’s Year of the 50th and Kenya’s 2030 development vision.

The tree planting was completed over a period of six months with the help of 144 volunteers from two local NGOs; Forest Restoration Agency and the Brain Youth Group. The work was overseen by the Regional Director of Kenya Forest Service to ensure compliance with Kenya’s tree planting, maintenance, protection and conservation standards.

The mangroves were planted in an area of 5 hectares along Tudor Creek. That area was once a lush mangrove forest spanning over 1,641 hectares. Today, only 215 hectares or 13 percent remain of that forest. Kenya Forest Service, the Custodian of all of Kenya’s forests, is supporting grass-roots efforts by local NGOs to reverse the forest loss in Tudor Creek.

The project was funded with the help of the Tree for 50 corporate partners which include: Deloitte, SAP, Amazon, Speedo, Edrington, Rotary Club, DimensionN and Quest for Adventure.

Kariuki Mugwe, Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya to the UAE, commented, “The Kenyan people are extremely grateful to the Tree for 50 stakeholders for their contribution in the restoration of our Mother Nature which we all depend on for our survival.”

Dr. Ibrahim Aldabal, CEO of Khalifa Empowerment Programme, said, “We are proud to partner with Blue Forest and the Kenyan Authorities to implement this important environmental project, through which we write a new chapter in our journey towards placing global positive citizenship and sustainability at the core of our activities, which enhances international efforts to confront future climate changes.”

ALSO READ:UAE pledges $85 million for Ethiopia relief

Vahid Fotuhi, Founder and CEO of Blue Forest, the company executing the project, added, “Kenya’s mangrove forests are among the most beautiful and carbon-rich in the world. We are honoured to be entrusted by AQDAR and KFS to do our part and, with the help of the local communities, restore the mighty mangrove forest of Tudor Creek.”

With Phase 1 now completed, the partners are aiming to restore the wider Tudor Creek mangrove forest as part of Phase 2. This will involve planting and protecting 10 million mangroves, in partnership with Community Forest Association members. (WAM)

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Africa News News Politics

Kenya, Zimbabwe Sign MoU

Kenya, Zimbabwe Sign MoU

Kenya and Zimbabwean governments signed seven bilateral agreements aimed at strengthening relations between the two countries…reports Asian Lite News

The deals, all memoranda of understanding (MOU) on political and diplomatic consultations, tourism and wildlife conservation, and civil aircraft accidents and serious incidents investigations were inked in the Kenyan capital Nairobi at the start of a three-day visit by Zimbabwean Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Other agreements were on women empowerment and community development, youth affairs, cooperatives, and sports and recreation activities.

Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta said in a statement issued after holding a bilateral meeting that the agreements will enable Kenya and Zimbabwe to cooperate in addressing challenges facing them, particularly youth unemployment.

Kenya, Zimbabwe Sign MoU

Kenyatta said his Zimbabwean counterpart’s visit had not only renewed the two nations’ friendship and brotherly ties but also re-invigorated the strong historical relations that exist between the African states.

On his part, President Mnangagwa said his visit to Kenya was aimed at deepening the strong and historical bilateral relations between Nairobi and Harare.

He said the unity of purpose would help Kenya and Zimbabwe to effectively deal with emerging challenges such as terrorism and the COVID-19 pandemic.

ALSO READ: UAE hails historic Arab-African ties

“We affirmed the need for cooperation with bilateral commitment at global levels to deal with pandemics of this nature now and in the future. Both Zimbabwe and Kenya are committed to enhancing cooperation towards mitigating the adverse effects of climate change and other environmental issues,” the Zimbabwean leader said.

Zimbabwe donated to Kenya 100 metric tonnes of medical oxygen to boost the fight against COVID-19 during the bilateral meeting. 

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Africa News EXPO 2020 UAE News

Mohamed bin Zayed receives President of Kenya

Mohamed bin Zayed receives President of Kenya (WAM)

The meeting touched on Kenya’s participation in Expo 2020 Dubai, and its importance in embodying its vision for the future and introducing its culture and heritage and the investment opportunities it offers…reports Asian Lite News

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, received President of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta, who is currently visiting the UAE to attend his country’s celebration of its National Day at Expo 2020 Dubai tomorrow, Wednesday.

During the meeting that took place at Qasr Al Bahr Majlis here, Sheikh Mohamed underscored the UAE’s keenness to strengthen its relations with Kenya in the fields of economy, trade, investment, agriculture and other areas related to the development drive championed by the two nations. The two sides also discussed a number of issues of interest, including bolstering cooperation and coordination at the United Nations to support common issues and goals in light of the two countries’ membership in the UN Security Council.

Mohamed bin Zayed receives President of Kenya (WAM)

The meeting touched on Kenya’s participation in Expo 2020 Dubai, and its importance in embodying its vision for the future and introducing its culture and heritage and the investment opportunities it offers.

His Highness thanked the Kenyan president for his country’s condemnation of the recent Houthi terrorist attacks on civil facilities in the UAE and for declaring its solidarity with the UAE following that act of terror.

ALSO READ: Republic of Serbia celebrates National Day at Expo 2020 Dubai

During the meeting, His Highness reiterated the great importance that the UAE attaches to its relations with the African continent in various fields, and its support for all that it takes to achieve stability and peace and bring prosperity, development and prosperity to African peoples.

For his part, the President of Kenya thanked His Highness Sheikh Mohamed for the warm reception and support provided by the UAE to Kenya in facing the Covid pandemic. He commended the UAE’s ongoing development drive, stressing his country’s keenness to strengthen its relations with Emirates in various fields.

The meeting was attended by H.H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, H.H. Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region, H.H. Sheikh Nahyan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation, H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, H.H. Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Member of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, and H.H. Sheikh Khalid bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination (ZHO).

Mohamed bin Zayed receives President of Kenya (WAM)
Mohamed bin Zayed receives President of Kenya (WAM)
Mohamed bin Zayed receives President of Kenya (WAM)
Mohamed bin Zayed receives President of Kenya (WAM)
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Africa News Arab News News

Suspected al-Shabab suspects burn down 8 trucks in Kenya

Suspected al-Shabab suspects burn down 8 trucks in Kenya

Estimated eight construction vehicles and equipment were set ablaze by suspected al-Shabab militants at 29 km from Hindi Town in the coastal Kenyan county of Lamu, a government official said…reports Asian Lite News

Lamu County Commissioner, Irungu Macharia on Sunday said the trucks are part of a fleet of vehicles belonging to the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) that is currently building the Lamu Port South Sudan Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor project access road.

Macharia also confirmed that there were no casualties during the incident.

He added the areas are marred with mobile network challenges, making it hard to communicate with police officers and units on the ground but promised that attackers were being pursued and that security has been heightened.

“I am aware the attackers destroyed construction equipment. It has been a challenge trying to reach my officers on the ground but security agencies are currently pursuing the gunmen. I will give more details as I get them,” said Macharia.

Security reports indicate that the heavily armed gunmen attacked a parking lot at the mini-constriction at 4 a.m. and engaged the Kenya Defense Force before they threw gasoline bottles that burnt most of the equipment.

The site is manned by Kenya Defense Forces (KDF), Xinhua news agency reported.

A fire exchange lasting for over two hours ensued at the site between the gunmen and KDF, before the militants were finally repulsed and retreated back into the Boni forest.

ALSO READ: Kenyans on protest as China proposes Lanka Model

Officers who spoke on condition of anonymity said the network challenges in the area made it impossible for them to call for backup when the attack happened.

“There is no network in this area and that has been the major issue in dealing with the terrorists here. We called for backup but the response was slow due to that. By the time we got help, a lot of damage had been done,” said the officer.

The LAPSSET project is touted as East Africa’s largest and most ambitious infrastructure project connecting Kenya, Ethiopia and South Sudan.

On Saturday, intelligence reports indicated that the militia group was planning attacks in Lamu targeting the Lamu Port and the road leading to the facility.

The Chinese company is constructing the road that will run through Lamu, Ijara and Garissa.

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Africa News Asia News Sri Lanka

Kenyans on protest as China proposes Lanka Model

Kenya and China have just signed six trade agreements and have even proposed to form a joint working group to carve out ways to reduce trade imbalances…writes Mahua Venkatesh

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who was in Nairobi earlier this week reiterated that the Beijing-funded infrastructure projects were mutually beneficial to both countries.

But despite this rhetoric, there is a growing sense of underlying apathy and discontent among the local Kenyans against the Chinese companies and contractors.

Why?

Besides apprehensions of a possible debt trap, the Chinese companies have bagged most of the key infrastructure projects leaving the small and sub-contracted work for the locals.

According to Kenya-based news organization the East African, only a few Chinese companies have amassed road and infrastructure contracts worth $8.8 billion under the Jubilee administration.

“The dominance of Chinese companies has left a bitter taste among local contractors who are now losing out even on county roads and real estate projects,” the news organization said in a recent report published during Wang’s visit.

“A strange and new form of imperialism is emerging with the way the Chinese businesses are operating,” Rajen Harshe, leading scholar in African and international relations studies in India told India Narrative. “For the Chinese, the focus is less on capacity building, it is more about seizing power and exploiting the resources,” Harshe added.

The speed, financing muscle and negotiation power of the Chinese firms has endeared them to almost all government departments, ministries and parastatals, “which have seen them eat the lunch of local companies who the government accuses of shoddy jobs and noncompetitive bids,” the news organization said.

China Communications Construction Co (CCCC) and its subsidiary China Road and Bridges Corporation (CRBC) have been entrusted with the bulk of road and railway construction which generate earnings of $6.9 billion.

ALSO READ: Kenyan police foil abduction of 40 civilians in border region

That apart, “hundreds of billions” have gone to other Chinese firms including China Wu Yi, Synohydro, China Railways 21 Bureau Group, Jiangxi Engineering and Third Engineering Bureau of China City Construction Group which have grabbed several projects across Kenya.

Pradeep S Mehta, Secretary General, CUTS International said that African governments must enable the local private sector to flourish.

“The problem that most African countries face is that of governance deficit, what is required is a well thought out state policy when it comes to infrastructure development,” Besides, the process of global tendering needs to be fair and transparent.

“The local firms are feeling the pinch and this will hit the Chinese over time, people will start reacting especially since there is a colonial past and history attached to Africa but times have changed and people are more aware and information exchange is easy,” Mehta said, adding that global infra development companies based in other countries including India must also be given a fair chance.

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Africa News News World

Kenyan police foil abduction of 40 civilians in border region

Kenyan police foil abduction of 40 civilians in border region

Kenyan police have foiled an attempt by suspected al-Shabab militants to abduct faithful at a mosque in Konton, Wajir County, in the northeastern border region…reports Asian Lite News

Wajir County Police Commander Hilary Toroitich said a gang of about five had raided a local mosque and taken hostage about 40 faithful who were present, Xinhua news agency reported.

Kenyan police foil abduction of 40 civilians in border region

Toroitich added that the militants suspected to have crossed from neighbouring Somalia ordered the faithful out and tried to drive them into a thicket heading to the nearby Kenya-Somalia border.

Their target was the Imam (Islamic preacher), also a police reservist who was leading the prayers then, the Police Commander said.

ALSO READ: Protests rise against students abduction by Pak forces

It was in the process that gunshots were fired forcing the gang to abandon their mission and escape, he added.

“But there were no injuries reported. We have sent reinforcements to help in tracking the gang,” he said.

The area is near the Somalia border and the militants usually cross at will and stage attacks before escaping back.

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Blinken in Kenya as part of 3-nation tour in Africa

Blinken in Kenya as part of 3-nation tour in Africa

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi as part of his three-nation tour in Africa, which will also take him to Nigeria and Senegal…reports Asian Lite News

Following his arrival on Wednesday, the Secretary of State held talks with Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta during which they discussed regional peace and security, reports Xinhua news agency.

Blinken in Kenya as part of 3-nation tour in Africa

After the meeting, Blinken tweeted: “Our commitment to the US-Kenya Strategic Partnership is stronger than ever. From Covid-19 to climate change, to fostering an inclusive, growing economy, meeting global goals is not possible without partners like Kenya.”

According to the State Department, US and Kenya are are currently working together to address regional priorities, particularly ending the crisis in Ethiopia, fighting terrorism in Somalia, and restoring the civilian-led transition in Sudan.

ALSO READ: Blinken to meet with Israel, three Arab states on normalisation

Before his talks with Kenyatta, Blinken also met with local civil society leaders in Kenya.

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News World World News

Gates Foundation announces $7mn for Covid genome research

Gates Foundation announces $7mn for Covid genome research

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has announced to provide $7 million to conduct genomic research in eight low and middle income countries, including India…reports Asian Lite News

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has announced to provide $7 million to conduct genomic research in eight low and middle income countries, including India. Other countries are South Africa, Senegal, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, and Brazil.

Gates Foundation announces $7mn for Covid genome research

The commitment, made at the 17th Grand Challenges Annual Meeting held between November 8 and 11, is part of the foundation’s newly launched Global Immunology and Immune Sequencing for Epidemic Response (GIISER) programme. GIISER works to ensure scientists have the capacity to rapidly detect if new SARS-CoV-2 variants in their communities show signs of evading immune response.

GIISER will operate as a decentralised network of autonomous and geographically distinct hubs that are able to connect local pathogen sequencing data and clinical epidemiology with local immunological understanding and tools.

Initial focus areas will include data science, such as mathematical modeling to inform national malaria control programmes, digital health services for pregnant women, and innovations to close gaps identified by current programmes for eliminating neglected tropical diseases.

The Foundation also committed an initial $50 million towards a new 10-year programme to support science and innovation in low- and middle-income countries. It is also awarded to science leadership fellowships to 14 African scientists.

ALSO READ: Musk accepts UN’s $6 billion challenge

“We need the ideas and leadership of the people who are closest to the global health challenges we’re working to address,” said Mark Suzman, CEO of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

The programme “represents our commitment to advance innovation and equity while strengthening local partners in a sustainable way”, she added.