Author: Lorine Otamo

Java House, a restaurant chain in East Africa, plans to expand its regional presence to 100 branches by the first quarter of 2025. This strategic move aims to bring its services closer to customers and enhance accessibility. The company recently opened three new outlets: one at Thika’s Vivo Energy, another at Java Express in Kenol, Murang’a County, and a third at Kisumu Airport. With these additions, Java now operates 96 branches in the region. Priscilla Gathungu, CEO of Java House Group, highlighted the company’s commitment to community engagement. She emphasized that each new branch creates employment opportunities for nearly 30 residents.…

The Ministry of Agriculture has announced a ban on macadamia harvesting from November 2, 2024, to March 1, 2025. This move aims to prevent the export of immature and low-quality nuts, which has tarnished Kenya’s reputation as a reliable supplier. “A ban on macadamia harvesting will take effect from 2nd November 2024 until 1st March 2025 to curb the export of immature nuts. Dealers must submit their current stock for inspection, verification and clearance by 15th November 2024,” Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Andrew Karanja said in a circular. Quality Control Measures To ensure quality standards, the government will…

Kenya Airways (KQ) has announced the suspension of all passenger flights to Mogadishu, Somalia, effective October 14, 2024. The decision was made due to operational challenges, as outlined in a letter from KQ CEO Allan Kilavuka to the Principal Secretary of the State Department of Transport. Kilavuka expressed Kenya Airways’ gratitude for the continued support from the Kenyan government, including the Ministry of Roads and Transport and the Kenya Embassy in Mogadishu. “Kenya Airways requests your understanding of this unforeseen development that may reverse the positive trend and gains made so far. The decision was made after careful analysis and…

Uganda Airlines has secured four weekly slots to operate between Entebbe International Airport and London Gatwick Airport, expanding its reach to one of Europe’s busiest hubs. Uganda Airlines plans to use the Airbus A330-800 for its London Gatwick flights. This modern, wide-body aircraft offers a comfortable and efficient travel experience for passengers. Terminal Uganda Airlines will operate its London Gatwick flights from the South Terminal. This terminal is known for its modern facilities and convenient access to transportation links. With Uganda Airlines’ imminent launch of London Gatwick-Entebbe flights, other African airlines might be considering expanding their European operations. Kenya Airways…

Kenya has introduced a new digital nomad work permit, offering remote workers the opportunity to live and work in the East African country. This visa is part of Kenya’s broader efforts to boost tourism, attract global talent, and stimulate economic growth. “These initiatives complement the government’s visa-free policy,” said President William Ruto at the Magical Kenya Travel Expo in Nairobi on 2 October. “The Digital Nomad Work Permit targets digital professionals globally, while the Transit and Long Connection Travelers ETA offers transit visitors a chance to experience Magical Kenya.” Features of the Digital Nomad Visa Temporary residency: Allows remote workers…

In a significant move to address the pervasive issue of sexual harassment and abuse in the Kenyan film industry, MultiChoice Talent Factory, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), and the Kenya Film Commission jointly hosted a two-day Masterclass on Intimacy Coordination and Safety on Production Sets. The workshop, held on October 1st and 2nd, brought together over 100 industry stakeholders to discuss critical safety challenges faced in productions involving intimate scenes. Call for a Safer and More Respectful Working Environment MTF Eastern Africa Academy Director Victoria Goro emphasized the need for a safer and more respectful working environment for actors…