A community development organisation is calling for more public-private initiatives to improve basic service delivery that can lift communities out of poverty and restore dignity to the lives of the disenfranchised masses in South Africa (SA). The obligation to restore dignity and ensure equal access to basic services has been one of the country’s greatest challenges since 1994.

Rhiza Holdings, an organisation developing township economies and communities, hails that partnerships with community organisations and public entities are critical to address immediate threats to the stability and security of marginalised people.

“Without public-private partnerships it is impossible to achieve our social development goals for 2030,” says Godfrey Katsande, CFO at Rhiza Holdings. “The role of collaborative and people-focused initiatives are critical to ensuring that people aren’t fighting hunger, thirst, illness and unemployment alone,” he adds.

Improving service delivery is key to solving the challenges that hinder social development in SA. Resources are depleted, jobs and job opportunities are lost, and overall living circumstances deteriorate in communities that lack access to adequate service delivery.

Increased demand for service delivery puts local government under pressure

"We echo the words of Finance minister Enoch Godongwana during the delivery of the Mid-term Budget Speech in acknowledging the immense pressure municipalities are under to meet increasing infrastructure service demands," says Katsande.

The government has approved 28 of the 67 applications it has received totalling R56.8 billion in debt relief for money they owe to power utility Eskom.

"We welcome Treasury's stated plan to work with municipalities towards creating more revenue through the transition to more self-generation of electricity by firms and households."

Should these interventions be successfully carried out, municipalities should be well positioned to improve the quality of basic services, while increasing their access and efficiency.  Over the next three years, the government proposes allocating 9.9 percent of available non-interest spending to local government.

Municipalities would have more financial resources available to invest in essential services like water supply, sanitation, road maintenance, waste management, and more. This could lead to improved service delivery, better infrastructure, and a higher quality of life for residents across the county.

Working with the non-profit sector in the communities who lack these services the most will be the catalyst that propels these efforts to their optimum potential to reach the millions of people who live without proper services to break the poverty cycle.

According to the Development Bank of South Africa, service delivery challenges in SA start with inadequate infrastructure. Public-private partnerships have been essential in providing the infrastructure and facilities required for disadvantaged communities to become economically active, benefiting from systems that serve their basic needs. Much of RB’s work has involved tackling these problems in townships that lack the facilities and resources to serve the community’s most vulnerable residents.

Achieving improved employment opportunities for the most vulnerable, discriminated sectors in society and strengthening multi-stakeholder partnerships form part of the United Nations sustainable development goals for 2030.

Focusing on the three pillars of education, healthcare, and agriculture in order to reach and improve the lives of those without access to adequate basic services, Rhiza Babuyile (RB), a division of Rhiza Holdings, reiterates its commitment to assisting the most vulnerable citizens. “Lack of access to basic services including primary healthcare, sanitation, quality education and clean water can lock people in a cycle of poverty by reducing their ability to find and keep a source of income while further destabilising communities with increased health and security risks,” says Katsande.

By supporting and starting initiatives to improve the quality and accessibility of education, particularly in townships and rural regions, we contribute to resolving some of these challenges faster. “Through our healthcare pillar, we have played a role over the last decade in improving healthcare accessibility in townships and rural regions with the help of our mobile and traditional clinics,” Katsande adds.

Public-private partnerships are proven to work

Rhiza Babuyile commends its public and private partners and donors for helping it to reach thousands of children, women and disadvantaged young people. “Our goal is to provide primary healthcare to one million people in townships and rural areas. In the education pillar, we seek to expand our access to blended financing tools through collaborations with the five blended financing initiatives we are now running to support early childhood development centres in townships,” Katsande says.

"For our educational efforts, we are still working to stream in more blended funding mechanisms. Additionally, all of our mobile and brick-and-mortar clinics located in townships around the nation, offer healthcare skills training. Training in diverse agricultural and green economy skill sets is offered through our green economy programs.” says Katsande.

Partnering with commercial businesses has allowed Rhiza Babuyile to launch blended finance instruments that have aided in unlocking value to fund activities that support efforts to achieve its social development goals.

The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has underscored the importance of journalists cultivating their skills on data interpretation to simplify their content.

MCK CEO David Omwoyo who spoke during a panel discussion on Data Journalism at the  second edition of the Global Media Congress at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), noted that newsrooms around the world handle highly sensitive data and information and should use practical tools to effectively communicate their stories.

“Data without context and translation is unusable. People need to see the impact of data in their lives, otherwise it is just numbers”, he said.

He also pointed out the challenges faced by the Kenyan media in accurately conveying financial data.

“It is important for data experts to break down the meaning and impact of the numbers to simpler data”, said Mr Omwoyo.

IWatch Africa Co-Founder Gideon Sarpong called for establishment of teams dedicated to supporting journalistic work behind the scenes.

“Journalists get a lot of information that require them to break it down to simple data to make sense and uncover some truths”, said Mr Sarpong.

Head of the UAE Representative Office of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia Dr Marko Selakovic stressed on the responsibility of editors to contextualise data and have clear cut information that makes meaning.

At the panel discussions, journalists were urged to take responsibility for real-time fact checking in the era of Artificial Intelligence and enhance their tools to effectively counter misinformation.

The congress brought together global media leaders and innovators to discuss emerging issues in the media sector and ways of shaping the future of media operations.

The resonating success of the 360 Degree Woman Festival, held on November 11, 2023, has left an indelible mark of inspiration, empowerment, and celebration.

The festival, hosted at the KALRO Grounds, Waiyaki Way, brought together women from diverse communities and age groups for a day of enriching discussions, interactive workshops, and vibrant entertainment.

The festival commenced with impactful panel discussions, notably "Women in Leadership," moderated by Cynthia Mwangi. Panelists Patience Nyange, Renee Ngamau, and Naserian Mpeeiya shared their compelling journeys, unraveling the obstacles they faced in ascending to leadership and triumphing over systemic barriers designed to hinder women's progress.

The raw and inspiring narratives resonated with aspiring leaders, emphasizing resilience and breaking through barriers.

"Women and the Digital Age" featured panelists Ms. Julian Kamau, Njambi Mungai, and Mirriam Karanja, who moderated the session. The discussion explored issues spanning cyber security, cyberbullying, digital footprints, personal branding, and other challenges women encounter online. The panel shed light on navigating the digital landscape with resilience and strategic growth.

The final panel, "Marriage, Children, and Bringing the Sexy Back," moderated by Anne Bahati, courageously addressed societal norms. Panelists Irene Mutegi, Ciku Mwaniki, and Josephine Wanja delved into topics of vulnerability, nutrition, dating, and marriage, encouraging women to embrace their unique journeys and live in the present moment.

The festival showcased a lively marketplace, featuring women entrepreneurs across diverse sectors. Attendees seized the opportunity to support and connect with enterprises in health, cosmetics, hair care, international studies, African apparel, motor vehicle care, and bespoke games.

The event concluded with electrifying performances by Kareh B and Jojo Kibare, setting a celebratory tone that had attendees dancing on the open lawn for hours. The dynamic entertainment added a joyful touch to the festival atmosphere.

Josephine Wanja, Founder of Black Dot Limited and Festival Director, expressed gratitude, stating, "The 360 Degree Woman Festival surpassed our expectations. Witnessing women unite to inspire, support, and have fun in a safe, non-judgmental space was truly heartwarming. These events play a vital role in fostering unity, empowerment, and holistic well-being for every woman."

The overwhelming success of the "360 Degree Woman Festival" has ignited anticipation for future editions. Organizers are already exploring ways to amplify the festival's impact, ensuring it remains a vital platform for empowerment, enjoyment, celebration, and connection.

The coastal city of Mombasa will host this year's World Remembrance Day for traffic victims on November 19.

The World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims (WDR) is commemorated on the third Sunday of November each year.

It is a high-profile global event to remember the many millions who have been killed and seriously injured on the world’s roads and to acknowledge the suffering of all affected victims, families and communities.

This year's theme is 'JUSTICE'

On 26th October 2005, the World Day was adopted, unanimously, by the UN General Assembly as “the appropriate acknowledgement for victims of road traffic crashes and their families”.

The schedule for the day in Mombasa includes a street walk, starting from the Mackinon market (Marikiti) to Mama Ngina Waterfront.

The event will be graced by officials from the National Transport And Safety Authority (NTSA), Mombasa county government and Bloomberg Philanthropies initiative for global road safety.

According to statistics from NTSA, 2, 124 people died in road accidents from January to 25 June 2023.

A breakdown of the fatalities indicated that more pedestrians were victims of road accidents with 729 recorded fatalities in 2023 followed by motor cyclists at 561.

Bongo music maestro and WCB founder Diamond Platnumz is set to unveil his latest signee on Thursday.

Taking to his social media handles, the 'Enjoy' hitmaker called on his fans to be ready for the unveiling of the new talent.

"For some reason I'm super excited and I wish people out there realize that we have alot of talents in this country. Fans deserve to get something new everyday and that is what I have been trying to do. His stage presence is electric" said Diamond Platnumz in a video promo which also involved other WCB artists.

Appearing on the same promo, Lava Lava praised the unknown singer for his song writing skills.

"Appearance very key. You know WCB never goes wrong " said Zuchu.

On his part WCB manager Mkubwa Fella said " What attracted us most  is his ability and talent."

The announcement has sparked excitement from music lovers and WCB fans.

The last time that WCB introduced a new artist was in April 2020 when they introduced Zuchu who has since taken over the East Africa music industry emerging as one of the top female artists from the region.

Other artists under the label are Mbosso, Lavalava and Queen Darleen.

The Mombasa county government has announced 100 per cent waiver of penalties on land rates.

Addressing the media at his office, Mombasa governor Abdulswamad Nassir said landowners owe the Mombasa government more than Sh3 billion in unpaid land rates and interests dating from 2018.

"The waiver takes effects immediately untill the end of December. I hope land owners will take advantage of this so that come next year they will not have to pay penalties regarding the same." said Nassir.

Nassir also stated that the county government is working towards solving the floods being experienced in the county due to the heavy rains.

"Today it rained and as much as there was alot of water in most parts but the water is moving. We are working hard to improve our drainage system." said Nassir.

Adding "If you go to areas like Miritini the Mwamlai bridge had been swept away by heavy rains but we have managed to repair it and all is well. In areas like Bondeni we used to experience water not moving but it is now moving. The challenge is there yes but we are going to solve it."

He further called on the residents to also take self precaution as they county continues experiencing heavy rains.

A total of 42 countries from Africa, North and South America, Middle East, Asia and Australia are expected to participate in the 11th edition of the Mombasa Open Tong-IL Moo-Doo championships.

The competitions are slated for December 9 to 20 at the Aga Khan Gymnasium with over 400 participants expected to compete in different categories.

Addressing the media at the Kenya Tong-IL Moo-Doo Federation headquarters in Mombasa, the federation chair Master Clarence Mwakio said they were ready for the competition despite facing financial challenges to host the tournament.

“Last year we faced a huge challenge because we received no support from the government, but despite the hurdle we managed to pull a successful event,” said Mwakio.

Mwakio said that they have a budget of Sh589 million to fulfill all its budgetary obligations.

The federation is seeking Sh272 million from the government to support the main event hosting budget and the national team Jasiri.

The World Tong-IL Moo-Doo federation he said had agreed to sponsor part of the budget with Sh106 million with participating countries covering Sh105 million

“We spoke with the ministry of sports last year informing them of our intention to host the event this year, we also sent reminders but are yet to get a response. But we remain hopeful that the ministry is going to respond,” Mwakio said.

He lauded the continued working relationship between the federation and the government as he called for fair treatment of all sports federation.

Mwakio who is also the president of the Africa Tong-IL Moo-Doo Federation said that if all sports were to be treated equally in the country, then the sports in Kenya will go far.

Kenya he said is a focal point for the growth and development of the sport across the continent and by hosting the Mombasa Open Tong-IL Moo-Doo Championships is putting Kenya on the world map.

“We wish all sports federations are treated equally because there are no big or small sports. In fact we need to support the said ‘small’ sports to get to the level of the so-called ‘big’ sports,” he said.

Despite team Kenya still owing the federation allowances from last year’s tournament, Mwakio said that they are in high spirit and expect to retain the overall title in the competition.

Mwakio said that it was sad to note that the county government of Mombasa has failed to support the past ten editions of the tournament missing out on the huge potential of leveraging on and promoting sports tourism.

A reply letter seen by Star dated November 8 informed the federation that they could not get any support from the county due to harsh economic times.

“This is a city named tournament that was approved by the world federation after I put in a request. The aim is to promote the sport and boost sports tourism,” said Mwakio.

Tong-IL Moo-Doo has been in Kenya for the last 35 years.

The sport has presence in 12 counties as the federation seeks to role the sport to all the 47 counties by the end of 2025.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Wednesday held a meeting with the family of the late Coast musician Ally B at his official residence in Mombasa.

During the breakfast meeting which was attended by Ally B's wife, son and brother, Gachagua promised to support the family.

The DP offered to pay school fees for Ally B's so who is currently in form three at Concordia Secondary School.

"The DP through former Starehe Mp Charles Njagua 'Jaguar' requested to meet the family. As you know the Ally B was a close ally of the president and his deputy, he played a big role in their campaigns" said Presenter Gates Mgenge who was part of the team that met the DP.

Adding" As you are also aware Ally B was the bread winner of the family and his passing has left a huge gap in the family, the DP promised to stand with them. He offered the wife a business capital and promised to ensure that Ally B's sister and brother get a job.''

The DP also delivered President William Ruto's condolence message to the family.

This comes just few days after Coast artists held a candle light memorial for the late singer who passed few weeks ago.

The Kenya Ports Authority KPA has denied doing business with missing businesswoman Ann Njeri who had claimed to have imported 100,000 metric tons of diesel valued at Sh17 billion into the country.

Addressing the media at the KPA headquarters in Mombasa Monday afternoon, KPA board chairman Benjamin Tayari noted that there were a lot of disparities in the alleged original bill of lading circulated widely purporting to the cargo imported by the businesswoman, as opposed to what they had in their possession.

According to the bill of lading shared online, Njeri through her company Anns import and Export Limited imported the cargo from Azerbaijan which was loaded at the port of Jedda in Saudi Arabia aboard vessel MT Haigui on October 9 and arrived at the port of Mombasa on October 11.

Tayari however said that it was impossible for a vessel to travel from Jedda to Mombasa in two days adding that Njeri’s company was not even in the list of consignees as stated in the original manifest that KPA has.

“Information available to us show that the vessel loaded her cargo of 93,460 metric tons of gas oil under four bills of lading between September 26 and 28 at Yanbui-Samref terminal in Saudi Arabia and departed for Jeddah arriving on September 29 for cargo dropping and sampling before departing for Mombasa on September 30,” said Tayari.

The vessel he said tendered her notice of readiness and called on the port of Mombasa on October 11 under the agency of Sturrock Shipping Kenya limited.

The ship Tayari said according to their manifest berthed at the port on November 4.

“Out of the manifested 93,460 metric tons of gas oil, 49,091.724 of it was destined to Kenya with the shipper being MS Aramco nominated by the ministry of energy and petroleum,” Tayari said.

The remaining 44,368.763metric tons was transit cargo destined for Uganda, South Sudan and the Democratic republic of Congo.

The vessel commenced discharge on November 5 according to the consignees and the respective portion of bulk cargo as listed in manifest submitted by ship agent and KPA confirmed that Anns Import and Enterprises limited was not one of manifested consignees.

"Unlike bill of lading, the document is signed by stated shipper and not the master of the vessel, the cargo said to be manifested in the bill of lading is 100,000kgs equivalent to 84,000 metric tons only which is approximately 0.09 percent of the total product carried by the vessel.”

“Further the duration from Jeddah to Mombasa was 10 days and therefore it is impracticable for the vessel to have loaded in Jeddah on 9 October 9 yet she arrived in Mombasa on October 11, just after two days which is impossible,” he said.

Other anomalies observed in the purported bill of lading he said is that the origin of cargo is indicated Azerbaijan Republic loaded at Jeddah which he said was contrary to the origin which was Yanbui-Samref terminal in Saudi Arabia before heading to the port of Jedda.

The product he said is indicated as diesel which is contrary to the cargo indicated as gas oil cleared by the Kenya Bureau of Statistics under pre import inspection.

"Further copies of the vessel ownership in KPA possessions do not indicate Anns Import and Export Limited Enterprise as the owner of the vessel. The copies circulating out there are false, we have all the original documents,” he said.

For all fuel imports in Kenya, Tayari said that KPA and all agencies involved are required to adhere to existing Government-to-Government arrangements.

This therefore means that KPA counterchecks manifest submitted to confirm that the shipper is duly appointed by the ministry of energy and petroleum and those consignees are licensed by energy and petroleum regulatory authority and nominated by appointed international oil marketer.

KPA managing director Captain William Ruto said that Njeri was not their client and has never visited KPA offices in Mombasa.

"The said woman has never visited KPA, we don’t know her and she has never lodged any complain with us. We only read about this issue on social media,” said Ruto.

He added that, “Some of the allegations being peddled cannot withstand anywhere. How can someone claims to be the owner of the vessel, yet she has no document to prove that, it is not adding up.”