Safaricom PLC has unveiled four new millionaires in the ongoing Shangwe @25 consumer promotion, bringing the total number of winners to five since the campaign launched two weeks ago.

The newly announced winners, Josephine Waswa from Bungoma, Bernice Mumo from Makueni, Abdi Dahir from Garissa, and Josephat Mwilaria from Athi River, join 20-year-old Yvonne Wanjiku Kang’ara from Ngeu, Kiambu County, who was unveiled as the first millionaire.

Each winner will receive KSh 1 million, along with an additional KSh 250,000 to support a community project of their choice, as part of Safaricom’s 25th anniversary celebrations.

During the award ceremony in Bungoma, 36-year-old sugarcane farmer Josephine Waswa expressed disbelief and joy while receiving her cheque, terming the moment a great blessing and truly life-changing.

"I can’t believe that the small KSh 19 airtime I bought on M-PESA has turned me into a millionaire. My plan is to expand my farming business and buy land to build a home. For the community project, I will support Kasosi Primary School in Mabanga by making desks for Grade 1, 2, and 3 pupils, easing the shortage that currently forces up to six learners to share one desk.

For 26-year-old Bernice Mumo, a frequent user of M-PESA, the win came at a defining moment as she continues to search for employment after completing her course in cosmetology.

She had bought airtime and paid for her Wi-Fi using M-PESA, simple transactions that ended up turning her into a millionaire.

“I am still in shock. I always see people winning, but I never imagined I would one day be one of them. I will channel my community project funds into constructing and equipping a laboratory at Mwalano Dispensary in Mukaa, Makueni County, to reduce the long distances residents walk for diagnostic services. I believe this will be a huge relief for the people in my community”.

25-year-old Abdi Dahir, a turn boy from Garissa and the firstborn supporting his entire family was overwhelmed with gratitude as he received the news of his win.

"Everyone in our family depends on me. I really don’t know what to say or how best to thank Safaricom for locating me. I can’t believe that the small credit I always buy to make calls to customers has made me a young millionaire. This win is life-changing for my family, as it will help me support them and also build my mum a house back in Garissa. For the community, I want to support Sangailu Primary School here in Garissa with water tanks and desks,” said Abdi Dahir.

Meanwhile, 51-year-old Josephat Mwilaria, a businessman from Athi River, initially doubted the win due to a past experience with fraud.

He only believed it after visiting a Safaricom shop for confirmation. Joseph says he conducts all his transactions, including paying bills, through M-PESA because it is convenient and secure, which is ultimately what led to his win.

He plans to reinvest in his business and use the community funds to support Pillars of Hope Children’s Home through food donations and school fees for selected children.

Since its launch, Shangwe @25 has been rewarding thousands of customers daily and weekly with cash prizes, data bundles, devices, and business support tools.

Each week, over 800 customers win amounts of KSh 10,000, KSh 50,000, and KSh 100,000, contributing to more than 50,000 weekly winners. More than 5 million customers are expected to win prizes worth KSh 250 million over the promotion period.

 Effective leadership that champions evidence-based road policing and builds public trust through procedurally fair policing is essential for strengthening enforcement and reducing traffic deaths and injuries.

This week, 51 senior police leaders from five African countries and Jamaica have gathered in Mombasa, Kenya, for the 2025 Road Policing Executive Leadership Course (RPELC) — a flagship capacity-strengthening initiative supported by the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety (BIGRS), with additional support from the FIA Foundation and the Anglo-American Foundation.

The week-long course, hosted and co-delivered by the Global Road Safety Partnership (GRSP) and the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit (JH-IIRU), is taking place at the Pride Inn Hotel.

The program brings together a diverse group of high-level participants, including Deputy Commissioners of Police, Department Directors, and other senior law enforcement leaders committed to strengthening road policing systems across their countries.

The RPELC provides an intensive platform for sharing global best practices in enforcement, with a strong focus on addressing key road safety risk factors such as speeding, drink-driving, and non-use of seatbelts and helmets.

Through interactive sessions and peer learning, participants enhanced their capacity to apply evidence-based, intelligence-led enforcement strategies aimed at reducing road traffic injuries and fatalities.

“Every day in Africa, approximately 620 lives are lost in crashes, and police have an enormously important role in preventing these needless tragedies,” said Dave Cliff, CEO of the Global Road Safety Partnership.

Adding “The strong engagement of this group of high-ranking officers demonstrates the deep commitment across Africa and Jamaica to keeping people safe on the roads.”

Through BIGRS, Bloomberg Philanthropies continues to support enforcement agencies with implementing proven interventions and strengthening leadership capacity to prevent road traffic crashes and save lives in low- and middle-income countries.

The Wine Fair, East Africa’s leading wine discovery event, is thrilled to announce its much-anticipated return to the coast.

After three years since the last coastal edition in 2022, The Wine Fair – Mombasa Edition 2025 will take place on 13th December 2025 at the iconic English Point Marina.

Now in its 6th Edition, The Wine Fair continues to champion wine culture, appreciation and education in Kenya by bringing together top wineries, importers, sommeliers and consumers for an unforgettable tasting experience.

This year marks a special milestone as the event returns to Mombasa bigger, better and more immersive than ever.

What to expect

Guests can look forward to:

100+ wine brands from across the world Exclusive wine masterclasses led by experts and certified wine educators

A seaside tasting experience like no other blending wine, culture and coastal charm

Live entertainment, curated pairings, and lifestyle experiences

A premium mix of regional and international wine brands including new showcases and returning favorites

Special Pre-Event Activities

Ahead of the main festival, The Wine Fair will host:

An exclusive Winemakers & Media Dinner on the eve of The Wine Fair.

An Influencer Welcome lunch hosted by Wines of South Africa (WoSA), our featured partner

These intimate gatherings aim to spotlight the growing wine landscape in Kenya and create deeper connections between brands, media and content creators.

A Celebration of Culture, Coast and Community

“Returning to Mombasa feels like coming home,” says the Wine Fair team. “Wine deserves to be celebrated in every corner of Kenya

and the coast brings a unique energy—sunshine, ocean breeze and a vibrant community ready to explore world-class wines. This edition is all about elevating that experience.”

Ticket Information

Advance tickets are now available on mtickets.com:

Ksh 2,500 per person | Ksh 8,000 for a group of four

Early Bird tickets sold out fast, with strong demand from wine enthusiasts across the region.

Event Details

Date: 13th December 2025

Venue: English Point Marina, Mombasa

Time: 3 PM- 10PM | After party till late

About The Wine Fair

Founded by four Kenyan sommeliers and importers passionate about growing the wine culture in Kenya, the Wine Fair has established itself as a catalyst for the industry.

By bringing together importers, distributors and consumers, it accelerates brand visibility and builds lasting connections that help shape the future of wine appreciation in the region.

Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, the Wine Fair promises an unforgettable experience , one sip at a time.

MojaEV today hosted one of its most significant electric mobility events of the year, marking a major step forward in Kenya’s transition to clean, efficient, and affordable transport.

The event celebrated the handover of 30 new electric vehicles, one of the largest single-day EV releases in Kenya since the introduction of 100 electric taxis to the market.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Achieng Anam, Sales Director at MojaEV, highlighted the importance of building trust and delivering practical solutions for Kenya’s transport sector.

“Today’s milestone demonstrates that electric mobility is no longer a future concept; it is happening now, at scale, and making real impact for our drivers, businesses, and communities,” she said.

The event also featured remarks from key partners driving Kenya’s growing EV ecosystem. Mr. Collins Amugune, Marketing Executive at GA Insurance, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to enabling safe, reliable, and affordable EV ownership.

“Our partnership with MojaEV ensures that early adopters have access to dependable insurance solutions that match the unique needs of electric vehicle owners,” he noted.

A major highlight of the event was the testimonial from Ms. Sylvia Saita of County Bus Services Limited, who officially received five Neta vehicles for their fleet.

“The Neta EV offers exceptional cost savings and reliability for fleet owners. This investment strengthens our business and supports our commitment to clean public transport,” she said.

CBS Director, Mr. Dr. Okuthe, reiterated the company’s position on adopting green mobility solutions.

“CBS embraces green technology wholeheartedly. Receiving our Neta fleet today marks a new chapter for our business; one where we are creating opportunities, saving our planet, and where efficiency, sustainability, and innovation go hand in hand. We are excited to be part of the movement shaping the future of transport in Kenya.”

Today’s ceremony also included the announcement of the upcoming Neta Light, a new EV model designed specifically for African roads and taxi operations. The model will offer improved affordability, making EV adoption even more accessible.

MojaEV now has a fleet of over 100 vehicles in Kenya and continues to partner with taxi associations, leasing companies, SACCO leaders, digital mobility platforms such as Uber and Bolt, as well as financial partners, to ensure that more Kenyans can transition into electric mobility with confidence.

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has confirmed that the 3rd IGAD Media Awards will take place on November 29–30 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The annual event, now in its third edition, brings together leading journalists, editors, media innovators, and communication experts from across the region to celebrate excellence in storytelling.

Last year’s edition was hosted in Nairobi, Kenya, attracting wide participation from media professionals across the Horn of Africa.

This year’s awards are themed “Storytelling for Climate Action: For a Secure, Resilient, and Stable Region,” reflecting IGAD’s growing emphasis on environmental reporting and the media’s role in shaping public understanding of climate change.

The event will also feature panel discussions, training sessions, and exhibitions aimed at strengthening the region’s capacity for impactful climate journalism.

IGAD has revealed that a diverse jury of 21 seasoned media professionals from its member states has been empaneled to evaluate submissions across multiple categories, including print, radio, television, digital media, photography, indigenous language reporting, and gender-responsive journalism.

A side event, the Voices for Climate Action Knowledge Share Fair, will also run alongside the awards.

The two-day ceremony is expected to draw journalists from across the Horn of Africa, with Ethiopia partnering as the host nation.

Organisers say the awards continue to provide a critical platform for recognising outstanding media work and deepening regional cooperation on pressing issues, particularly climate resilience and sustainable development.

The National Assembly has intensified efforts to strengthen Kenya’s creative sector as the Departmental Committee on Sports and Culture met stakeholders in Naivasha to review the Creative Economy Support Bill (Senate Bill No. 30 of 2024).

Momentum is building around efforts to overhaul Kenya’s creative industry after the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Sports and Culture held extensive engagements with key players on the Creative Economy Support Bill (Senate Bill No. 30 of 2024).

The Committee, chaired by Hon. Dan Wanyama (Webuye West) convened in Naivasha to scrutinize the proposed law that has been hailed as one of the most ambitious attempts yet to formalize, fund, and protect Kenya’s vibrant but historically under-supported creative economy.

The Bill, co-sponsored by Senator Eddy Gicheru Oketch and Hon. Irene Mayaka, seeks to transform how the country nurtures talent across industries such as music, film, fashion, gaming, digital content, cultural performance, photography, and sports innovation. 

The Senate approved the Bill on 7 August 2025, clearing the way for the National Assembly to shape its final form.

According to the legal briefing presented by the National Assembly Secretariat’s legal team, the Bill proposes sweeping reforms aimed at elevating the creative sector from an informal, underfunded space to a coordinated, well-resourced pillar of Kenya’s economy.

At the heart of the proposal is the establishment of a Creative Industry Council, a powerful apex body mandated to: Advise the government on creative economy policy, Coordinate programmes and partnerships, Protect creative works and rights and Link creatives to incentives, funding, and markets

The Council will operate through an Advisory Board comprising representatives from both government and the creative community and a full-time secretariat domiciled at the responsible ministry.

One of the key features of the Bill is the creation of a Roll of Creatives, a national register that will recognize practitioners as professionals and grant them access to incentives, protections, and government programmes. Membership is voluntary, and applications must be processed within 14 days.

The Bill also mandates the establishment of an online platform where incentives, grants, training opportunities, and other resources will be published for easy access.

The session brought together a broad spectrum of players in the creative ecosystem, including the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, the Office of the Attorney-General, the Kenya Academy of Sports, Qhala Kenya and a coalition of civil society organisations working on inclusive governance.

The engagement opened up dialogue on how to operationalize the Bill, assess institutional readiness, and refine proposals ahead of the National Assembly’s debate. Stakeholders weighed in on issues ranging from data protection to decentralizing services to better serve creatives in all 47 counties.

The Bill outlines a robust package of incentives and support mechanisms such as:Subsidies and tax incentives, A credit guarantee scheme to unlock financing, Special opportunities for creatives living with disabilities, Strong intellectual property protections and Enhanced support for research, training, and capacity building

A key highlight is the proposed Creatives Fund, which will issue grants and financial support to practitioners and institutions. Regulations guiding the Fund’s operations must be developed within 90 days of the Act’s commencement.

Because it establishes a publicly funded national fund, the Bill qualifies as a Money Bill under Article 114 of the Constitution placing the National Assembly at the center of determining its final financial framework.

If enacted, the Creative Economy Support Bill could become a historic milestone bringing structure, standards, and sustainable financing to a sector that millions of young Kenyans depend on for income and expression.

Supporters say it would finally anchor the creative industry at the heart of Kenya’s future economic growth, unlocking opportunities in the cultural and knowledge economies.

Committee chair Hon. Dan Wanyama commended the participants for their valuable contributions, assuring them that their proposals will guide the committee’s deliberations.

"We need this law. It will be vital for our country and for the millions of young people whose livelihoods depend on creativity. We appreciate all the stakeholders who turned up and shared their views with uttermost clarity,” he said.

Mining Cabinet Secretary  Hassan Joho has reiterated his unwavering loyalty to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), declaring that he has ‘sacrificed his life’ for the party.

Speaking during the ODM@20 celebrations in Mombasa, Joho said his political journey has been shaped by dedication, resilience and a firm belief in the party’s ideals.

Joho noted that his long-standing commitment to ODM has often come with personal and political costs, but maintained that he has never wavered in supporting the movement.

He said the sacrifices he has made over the years reflect the depth of his conviction and the trust he continues to place in the party leadership and its supporters.

"As young as I may be, I am still one of the founders of ODM, and my commitment to this party has never changed. Some of us are in this in party because of what it stands for said Joho.

He urged ODM members across the country to remain united and focused, adding that the party’s strength lies in its ability to weather challenges while staying true to its vision.

Joho emphasised that ODM’s future remains bright as long as its supporters uphold loyalty, discipline and collective effort.

Joho noted " Let no one think that he will just use and dump us"

Mining Cabinet Secretary  Hassan Joho has reiterated his unwavering loyalty to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), declaring that he has ‘sacrificed his life’ for the party.

Speaking during the ODM@20 celebrations in Mombasa, Joho said his political journey has been shaped by dedication, resilience and a firm belief in the party’s ideals.

Joho noted that his long-standing commitment to ODM has often come with personal and political costs, but maintained that he has never wavered in supporting the movement.

He said the sacrifices he has made over the years reflect the depth of his conviction and the trust he continues to place in the party leadership and its supporters.

"As young as I may be, I am still one of the founders of ODM, and my commitment to this party has never changed. Some of us are in this in party because of what it stands for said Joho.

He urged ODM members across the country to remain united and focused, adding that the party’s strength lies in its ability to weather challenges while staying true to its vision.

Joho emphasised that ODM’s future remains bright as long as its supporters uphold loyalty, discipline and collective effort.

Joho noted " Let no one think that he will just use and dump us"

Coast legislators have thrown their weight behind former Governor Hassan Joho, reaffirming their confidence in his influence and leadership within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

The MPs noted that Joho remains a unifying force in the Coast region, playing a critical role in strengthening the party’s grassroots networks ahead of the 2027 elelections.S

peaking during the ODM @20 celebrations at Mama Ngina Waterfront, the leaders praised Joho for his unwavering commitment to defending devolution and championing the rights of coastal communities.

"If anyone wants to speak us , then they must pass through Joho. He is our point of unity and our political compass,” said Mvita Mp Mohammed Machele

They noted that his consistent engagement with party structures and supporters has kept ODM vibrant and politically grounded in the region.

On her part Mombasa Woman Representative noted "If you don’t respect Joho, then we will not respect you,”

The MPs further emphasized the need for unity within the party, calling on members to rally behind experienced leaders like Joho as ODM charts its next political path.

They expressed optimism that with renewed teamwork and focused leadership, the party is well-positioned to reclaim its influence both in Coast and nationally.

“If it were not for Joho, ODM would not have gained the popularity it enjoys today,” said Kilifi North Ken Chonga.

Mining Cabinet Secretary  Hassan Ali Joho once again demonstrated his unmatched influence within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) as the party marked its 20th anniversary in Mombasa. His presence energized supporters, leaders, and delegates who turned up in large numbers, turning the celebrations into a show of unity and renewed political momentum.

Joho, one of ODM’s  Leaders and a key pillar in the party’s coastal support base, played a central role in mobilizing the region for the event. His return to the political spotlight was met with enthusiasm, with many describing him as the heartbeat of ODM’s grassroots network at the Coast.

During the celebrations, Joho reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to ODM leader Raila Odinga and urged members to remain steadfast in strengthening the party’s structures ahead of the coming political season.

"For two decades, Baba has led us with vision and resilience. Our duty now is to strengthen the party and remain steadfast in the values that define" said Joho.

He emphasized the need for unity, discipline, and consistent engagement with the public, noting that ODM’s strength lies in its connection to the people.

"As we celebrate 20 years, let us recommit ourselves to building a stronger, more organized ODM that speaks for every Kenyan."

Party delegates credited Joho with sustaining ODM’s stronghold in the Coast region over the years, pointing to his strategic outreach, youth engagement programs, and firm stance on issues affecting coastal communities. His ability to rally diverse groups under one political umbrella has been widely acknowledged by both allies and observers.

As ODM marks two decades of existence, Joho’s role continues to define the party’s identity and future trajectory.

His influence both at the grassroots and national levelremains a key factor in shaping ODM’s political direction, with many viewing him as an essential force in the party’s next phase of growth and electoral strategy.