Author: Lorine Otamo

Accor, a global hospitality group, has officially opened its ninth property in Kenya, the 105-room Gem Forest Hotel along Nairobi’s Limuru Road. The hotel, strategically located near the United Nations offices and upscale residential areas, targets diplomats, business travellers, and tourists. “Step into the soul of Nairobi. At the Gem Forest Hotel, your heart beats at the city’s rhythm and your senses delight at the natural beauty of Karura,” says Ms Shaileen JIWA, Hotel Manager. Boasting a Ksh3.9 billion investment, the property offers a range of amenities including conference facilities, a swimming pool, a gym, and multiple dining options. Gem…

Bata Kenya has opened two new stores in Meru, marking a significant expansion in the region. The new outlets, located at Makutano and Greenwood Mall, bring the total number of Bata stores in Meru to six. This expansion underscores Bata’s commitment to providing customers with quality and stylish footwear while supporting the local economy. The new stores offer the latest footwear collections at affordable prices. Mninwa Johannes Mahlangu, South African High Commissioner to Kenya, praised Bata’s contribution to the local economy and job creation. John Ngoru, Bata’s Regional Human Resources Director, highlighted the company’s growth plans and focus on customer…

Kenyans will no longer need to book appointments to collect their passports says the Directorate of Immigration Services. “This change streamlines the process and eliminates a source of frustration for many Kenyans,” a Directorate spokesperson stated. Further , we have simplified the process of passport delivery: applicants are no longer required to book for appointment to collect passports. The Directorate of Immigration Services is Listening and open to all emerging issues. Contact us. — Immigration Services | Kenya (@ImmigrationDept) July 28, 2024 The Directorate has also established a dedicated team to handle complaints efficiently. Kenyans can now raise any issues…

A new report by the National Council for Population and Development (NCPD) has revealed a concerning trend in Kenya: women aged 35-39 are more likely to initiate divorces than those in other age groups. While the overall divorce rate is rising, this particular demographic stands out. “Divorce and separation is slightly common among older women, though the phenomenon is generally low. The proportion of women reporting to be divorced rises from 1.1 per cent among 25 to 29-year-olds to 2.2 per cent among women aged 45 to 49 years.” “The proportion of women reporting separation is highest in the age…

The University of Nairobi (UoN) and data annotation and model validation solutions provider Sama have joined forces to advance the field of Generative AI (GenAI) in Kenya. Through this partnership, UoN students and faculty will gain valuable hands-on experience in the fast-paced world of GenAI. Sama will offer part-time employment opportunities, providing necessary training, equipment, and dedicated workspaces. Partnership Benefits Both Parties “This partnership is a significant step forward,” said Prof. Stephen Kiama, UoN’s Vice-Chancellor, during the signing ceremony. “It offers students a unique platform to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios, enhancing their learning and preparing them for the…

Uganda Airlines announced in Kampala on Wednesday that it will launch new flights to Lusaka (Zambia), Harare (Zimbabwe), and Abuja (Nigeria) in September 2024. Jenifer Bamuturaki, CEO of Uganda Airlines, said the new routes will significantly improve connectivity between Uganda and the rest of Africa. “These additions will offer travellers across the continent more convenient direct flights and seamless connections, fostering opportunities in business, trade, tourism, and cultural exchange,” Bamuturaki said. Yesterday, we launched new routes to Abuja, Lusaka, and Harare, increasing our destinations to 16. Starting September 12, 2024, these routes will boost regional trade and tourism, connecting underserved…