Standard Bank (Trading as Stanbic in Kenya), Africa’s biggest bank by assets, has partnered with Safaricom Telecommunications, Kenya’s largest telecommunications provider, to provide funding of USD138 million (approximately KES 17.94 billion) as part of investment towards Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia PLC, STEP.

The bank acted as the sole arranger, lender, and facility agent on the term facility to STEP and played an advisory role. Standard Bank’s financing facilitates Safaricom’s ongoing rollout of digital infrastructure and services in Ethiopia.

Dr Joshua Oigara, Regional Chief Executive for East Africa, Standard Bank Group, said, “This partnership reflects our commitment to enabling sustainable growth across the region. By supporting the expansion of digital connectivity in Ethiopia, we are strengthening economic linkages, opening new opportunities for businesses and communities, and contributing to the advancement of East Africa’s digital economy.”

Anthony Ndegwa, Executive Vice President for Telecoms, Media and Technology at Stanbic Kenya’s Corporate and Investment Banking, said, “We are honoured to have partnered with Safaricom again in enabling and supporting their ongoing vision to drive digital transformation and inclusion in Ethiopia.” 

The two businesses worked side by side in the development of the financial solutions that were bespoke to the business while responsive to the market’s needs.

Peter Ndegwa, Safaricom Plc Chief Executive Officer, said, “As a business, we are guided by innovation and strategic partnerships. We aim to transform lives at scale, empowering youth, entrepreneurs, and underserved communities to fully participate in Ethiopia’s digital economy and realise the promise of shared prosperity by 2030.” 

“Through this partnership we are given the opportunity to pursue this goal and grow further to digitally enable Africa,” added Ndegwa.

The telecommunication company acquired licence to operate in Ethiopia in 2021, and Standard Bank was one of the advisors and financiers who worked with them as they deployed services and built the network in the country.

The government of Ethiopia has also been deliberate in growing their economy through adaptation of regulations which has resulted in a significant growth in the uptake of internet.

According to the World Bank report, Empowering Ethiopians by Laying the Digital Foundations for Economic Growth, between 2020 and 2024, at least 4 million more people gained internet access, increasing coverage from 15 to 19 percent of the population.

Although each of the new mobile users has access to broadband internet, not all use data, so 4 million is a minimum estimate for new internet users.

Safaricom recently announced 10.1 million three-month active customers, after only being in the Ethiopian market for four years.

“As a bank we are dedicated in partnering with relevant parties to drive infrastructure development that will help accelerate the growth of the continent’s economy. Digital and financial inclusion in the African market has been one of the key objectives to break barriers and enabling individuals, communities and businesses to access affordable financial products and services that meet their needs,” says Taitu Wondwosen, Head of Standard Bank in Ethiopia.

“This partnership demonstrates the power of regional collaboration in unlocking long term value. Standard Bank remains committed to enabling growth across the region through sustainable investment,” adds Dr. Joshua Oigara, Regional Chief Executive for Stanbic Bank.

Coast General Hospital has achieved a major medical breakthrough after successfully performing an advanced breast cancer management procedure, the first of its kind in any public hospital in the coastal region.

The landmark operation marks a significant step forward in expanding specialised cancer care for patients across the Coast region.

The beneficiary of the pioneering procedure was a young mother of one who underwent a Left Skin Sparing & Skin Reducing Mastectomy (SSM/SRM) with immediate reconstruction using a Latissimus Dorsi (LD) muscle flap. For aesthetic balance, the surgical team also conducted a right breast reduction to achieve symmetry.

The complex surgery was performed by a specialised team led by Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon Dr. Maryam Badawy, supported by Consultant Plastic Surgeon Dr. Ruth Njoroge and Consultant Anaesthesiologist Dr. Khadija Maawy.

"Beyond removing the cancer, the procedure restored the patient’s self-image and psychological well-being, a vital step in her healing journey." reads a statement from the hospital

Blankets & Wine, a GoodTimes Africa production, is gearing towards the Kenyan Summer 2025 edition taking place on Sunday, December 2025.

The Kenyan Summer 2025 edition is set to deliver one of the boldest and most musically diverse lineups in Blankets history, featuring an explosive Kenyan lineup of stars including Iyanii, Matata, Okello Max, Ssaru, Bridget Blue, Elsy Wameyo and Shad Mziki, creating a powerful blend of Afro-fusion, Gengetone, soul, R&B, rap-dance and contemporary African pop. 

Taking center stage are South Africa’s Scorpion Kings (Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa), the duo at the forefront of the global Amapiano wave, Tanzania’s chart-topping sensation Marioo of the “Nairobi” hit fame, whose smooth, melodic anthems have defined a regional sound and UK’s Donae’o bringing London’s unmistakable dance energy to Nairobi, with his iconic hits “Party Hard” and “I’m Fly” at the Onja Onja Stage.

South Africa’s Mi Casa will add their signature mix of house, jazz and soul, rounding off a continent-spanning lineup built to electrify the main stage. 

This year’s theme, “COME WE DANCE!” in partnership with the British Council’s UK/Kenya Season 2025, invites Kenyans and Africans at home and across the diaspora to immerse themselves in joy, rhythm and connection. Amid global uncertainty, the festival calls audiences to find release and celebration in the music and energy that define today’s African soundscape.

The Onja Onja Stage continues the momentum into the night, with an eclectic selection of electronic, house, Afro-house and alternative sounds from Foozak, Tina Ardor, Ms. Mika, Darkfruit, Shishi and a high-energy back-to-back finale from Aly Fresh, Mura and Big Nyagz — ensuring that every corner of the festival pulses with unstoppable rhythm.

Following Blankets & Wine’s successful and historic UK debut in Bradford earlier this year under the British Council’s UK/Kenya Season 2025, the partnership now extends its cultural exchange back to Nairobi.

This continued collaboration underlines a commitment to two-way creative engagement, linking artists and audiences between the UK and Kenya. The British Funky House trailblazer Donae’o joins the festival as a co-headliner, as part of this exchange and deepening the artistic dialogue between the two creative ecosystems.

Muthoni Drummer Queen, Creative Director of Blankets & Wine says, “Our debut in Bradford, UK this year, proved that the Blankets & Wine experience travels and that African creativity resonates globally. Bringing Donae’o to Nairobi is a full-circle celebration for us, showing that the UK/Kenya Season is not a moment but a movement.” 

As Blankets & Wine enters its 17th year, the festival is elevating production and user experience with renewed commitment. Muthoni says, “For years, we’ve worked tirelessly to delight audiences through exceptional artistry and dependable production. Now we are sharpening our operations, sound, staging, hospitality and accessibility to deliver an experience that is world-class at every touchpoint.” 

Justine Mbugua, Head of Festivals at B&W, emphasizes: “Each edition strengthens the cultural ecosystem. We are deeply focused on service excellence and creating a seamless experience from entry to exit.”

Returning this season is the Onja Onja Market, a diverse holiday marketplace showcasing Kenyan fashion, food, art, wellness and lifestyle brands.

The market is curated to celebrate local creativity and commerce, for festival goers to discover and support Kenyan artisans while enjoying the full Blankets & Wine experience. With two dynamic stages, a star-studded pan-African lineup, an elevated production design and a richer cultural marketplace, the December 21 Kenyan Summer edition promises to be one of the most exciting and musically powerful Blankets & Wine festivals to date.

After a much-anticipated hiatus, The Wine Fair officially returns to the Coast with its Mombasa Edition, promising a multi-day celebration of premium wines, culture and lifestyle experiences set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Indian Ocean.

This year’s edition unfolds as a carefully curated wine journey, bringing together international wine bodies, renowned producers, importers, creatives and wine lovers through a series of exclusive pre-events leading to the main fair on Saturday, 13th December 2025 at English Point Marina.

A Week of Curated Wine Experiences The festivities kick off on Wednesday, 10th December, with an exclusive pre-Wine Fair Yacht Party in Shanzu, hosted in collaboration with Wines of South Africa (WoSA) and Boland Cellar Wines.

Set aboard a luxury yacht, the intimate affair will feature guided tastings, exquisite coastal canapés, and the official unveiling of Boland Cellar’s refreshed packaging by Christopher Burger, International Sales Manager—setting the tone for a sophisticated wine week.

Following this, WoSA will host an Influencer Lunch in Diani, bringing together digital tastemakers and media for an immersive South African wine experience curated to spotlight storytelling, pairing and coastal elegance.

On the eve of the main event, guests will be welcomed to an Importers & Winemakers Dinner at English Point Marina a private, invitation-led gathering designed to foster meaningful connections between global producers, Kenyan importers, industry leaders, and hospitality professionals.

The Main Event:

The Wine Fair Mombasa Edition Saturday, 13th December 2025 | English Point Marina The highlight of the week culminates in The Wine Fair, a vibrant, lifestyle-driven wine exhibition featuring: Curated wine tastings from premium local and international importers Free educational masterclasses led by expert sommeliers DJ entertainment and live performances throughout the day A creative Sip & Paint experience overlooking the ocean A refreshing welcome spritz made with Deuce Gin for all guests Immersive brand activations, artisan showcases and interactive experiences Designed to be both educational and celebratory, the fair offers something for seasoned wine enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike—blending wine culture, music, art, and coastal luxury into one unmissable experience.

About The Wine Fair.

The Wine Fair is Kenya’s premier wine lifestyle platform, known for curating immersive wine experiences that connect consumers with producers, importers, and global wine stories—through taste, education, and culture. 

KO Fight Night by ANZA MMA made history on Friday, December 5th, 2025, delivering Kenya’s first-ever professionally sanctioned Mixed Martial Arts event at Broadwalk Mall, Nairobi.

After developing the region’s amateur MMA scene, ANZA brought together top professional fighters from Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania for a groundbreaking night of elite competition and world-class production never before seen in Kenyan combat sports. 

The sold-out arena was electric from start to finish, with every fighter stepping into the cage determined to make a statement and every single bout ending in a decisive finish.

Fans watching online were also able to experience the action through a high-quality live stream, which showcased world-class production, staging, lighting and broadcast standards.

The broadcast was elevated by expert commentary from Julio DeSouza (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and Co-Founder of Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy) and dynamic hosting by Alex Holi, further cementing the event’s professional calibre.

The night drew Kenya’s top entertainment heavyweights, including Savara, Octopizzo, Boutross, with Nviiri the Storyteller and Boutross thrilling the audience with live performances between fights.

The event seamlessly blended elite sport with premium entertainment, setting a new benchmark for combat sports in Kenya and East Africa.

Kenyan standouts Ouhsummer Ali Abad, George Itumo and Kelvin Odongo ignited the venue with dominant first-round victories on the main card. Odongo’s explosive performance earned him the KO of the Night bonus.

Tanzanian fighters: Dauda Rajabu and Rashidi Mlegelo delivered equally commanding performances, with Rajabu earning Submission of the Night honors.

The event showcased a level of professionalism that drew attention from global MMA organizations — including UFC PFL and AKO — who are monitoring East Africa’s rapidly rising talent.

Daniel Kijo, Director of Marketing & Operations – PFL Africa was also in attendance, as a show of PFL Africa’s interest in ANZA MMA and developing local talent. 

MAIN CARD RESULTS

• Ouhsummer Ali Abad “Ninja Turtle” (Kenya) defeated Stephen Rackara (Uganda) – Round 1 TKO (Ground & Pound) - Featherweight 

• George Itumo (Kenya) defeated Joel Ssemanda (Uganda) – Round 1 TKO (Ground & Pound) - Bantamweight 

• Kelvin Odongo (Kenya) defeated Jonani Tugume (Uganda) – Round 1 TKO (Strikes) - Heavyweight 

• Dauda Rajabu (Tanzania) defeated Farouk Ogwal (Uganda) – Round 1 Submission (Triangle Choke) - Flyweight
  
  

PRELIMS RESULTS

• Rashidi Mlegelo (Tanzania) defeated Justin Okot (Uganda) – Round 1 Submission (Rear Naked Choke) - Featherweight 

• Annet Rose Kiiza (Uganda) defeated Rael Ashubwe (Kenya) – Round 2 TKO (Ground & Pound) - Flyweight 

• Moses Musisi (Uganda) defeated Joakim Ikalakala (Kenya) – Round 2 Submission (Mother’s Milk) - Welterweight 

With a full card of finishes, an energized crowd at Broadwalk Mall and a broadcast production meeting international standards, KO Fight Nights by ANZA MMA set a new precedent for MMA events in East Africa.

Peng Chen, Founder of ANZA MMA, shared his excitement: “Tonight was a historic moment not only for ANZA MMA but for Kenya and East African combat sports. The athletes delivered world-class performances, the fans brought unforgettable energy and the entire country proved it is ready for elite professional MMA. We are so thankful to all the fighters, the whole combat sports community and the media fraternity for being supportive and collaborative, this has been instrumental in our journey towards building the sport of MMA in Kenya and East Africa,” adding, “Next year, fans can expect to see more ANZA MMA amateur and pro fights in Nairobi and different regions in the country.”

Realization of the Bill of Rights is a collective effort that requires collaboration and partnership among the three arms and two levels of government, chair of the Senate Standing Committee on Justice, Legal Affairs and Human Rights, Senator Hillary Sigei has said. 

Speaking when he officially opened the 2025 High Court Human Rights Summit in Nairobi, Senator Sigei explained that the protection of human rights, cannot be left to the Courts alone but instead requires harmonised leadership: ethical, disciplined, and forward-looking.

He noted for instance that difficulties experienced in implementation of the African Court judgment in the situation of the Ogiek people remain a sobering reminder that judicial pronouncements often require coordinated State action to become reality.

He highlighted resource constraints, institutional fragmentation, emerging social tensions and implementation gaps as challenges that continue to undermine the impact of many progressive decisions.

He acknowledged the important role played by the High Court as the primary guardian of respecting, protecting, promoting and fulfilling human rights, and to redress any violation, threat or infringement, the Senator noted that the High Court has continued to discharge this duty with jurisprudential courage adding that decisions the court has rendered demonstrate a Judiciary attuned to contemporary human-rights concerns and willing to confront institutional inertia, social prejudice and policy gaps.

“The Court has rendered decisions that have affirmed the legal identity, health rights and non-discrimination of intersex persons and other marginalized groups, protected the freedom of citizens to lawful assembly, to picket and to present petitions before state authorities, and deepened protections related to privacy, data protection and lawful surveillance.”

He assured that Parliament is ready to work with the Judiciary and all actors in advancing sustainable justice reform and safeguarding the dignity of every Kenyan.

He said it has also continued to strengthen the human-rights architecture through legislation, oversight and budgetary stewardship.

He called for continued building of a Republic where power is exercised with humility, where leadership is guided by integrity, where citizens are protected by the law and not endangered by it, and where institutions anchor, rather than distort, the constitutional promise.

“Let us commit to greater respect for constitutionalism, unwavering fidelity to the rule of law, ethical leadership at every level of public life,” said Senator Sigei.

He asked leaders in the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary, to model the constitutional morality, standards and benchmarks they expect from the citizenry. 

"We must speak consistently against violations of rights, whether committed by State agencies, private actors or even the public during political contestation. We must affirm that constitutionalism is not a shield for some: it is a responsibility for all,” he said.

He avered that this year’s theme “Upholding Human Dignity: Ethical Leadership as a Pillar of Constitutionalism” reminds each arm of government that constitutional authority is not an entitlement; but a moral responsibility anchored in integrity, fidelity to the rule of law, and respect for the inherent worth and dignity of every Kenyan.

Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Winfridah Mokaya noted that the summit comes at a time when public trust in governance institutions is declining. 

She assured that the Judiciary will continue to stand as the national citadel of hope— a place where citizens burdened by injustice find a wellspring of integrity, discipline, and moral courage.

She said when the Constitution elevates ethics to an entire chapter—Chapter Six, this is not accidental but a clear instruction from the people of Kenya that integrity, accountability, and moral clarity must define public service.

High Court Principal Judge Eric Ogola noted that this year’s theme aligned with the transformative vision of the Constitution saying that the summit provides an opportunity to explore ethical leadership in depth, considering how principled leadership across all public institutions strengthens constitutionalism and ensures that human dignity remains central to governance.

“We remain committed, as the High Court, to giving full effect to the principles of Chapter Six of the Constitution, ensuring that leadership at all levels upholds integrity, accountability and public trust,” Justice Ogola assured.

Mombasa is set for a record-breaking celebration as Amina Khalid Ahmed, an award-winning baker prepares to bake an extraordinary 1,300 kilograms of cake for the 3rd Edition of the Minat Cake Festival.

Mrs Amina, 28 years old, is the founder of Minat Bakery & Cake Zone Academy, a bakery and baking school that offers marketplace knowledge for bakers and beginners in Mombasa. 

The festival comes at a special moment, exactly one week after Amina was honored by KNCCI as the Best Women-Led Business 2025 during their annual gala dinner. 

This year’s festival is especially significant as Amina marks 10 years in the baking business; a decade of excellence, creativity, and community impact. 

"I take this opportunity to thank KNCCI for this recognition. This award means a lot to me as I am marking my 10th anniversary in this business. I am also happy to announce that I will be doing over 1300 kgs of cakes for my event this Sunday,” said Mrs Ahmed at the award ceremony held at Pride Inn Paradise Hote in Shanzu, Mombasa.

The recognition has added greater momentum to a festival already known for its creativity, scale, and community connection.

The event will happen at Amwaj Hall in Tudor, on December, 14. Tickets for the event are already sold out. 

Over the past 10 years, she has trained hundreds of bakers, mentored fellow young entrepreneurs, and transformed the pastry industry at the Coast.

This year, 50 new students will graduate, bringing the total number of bakers trained by Amina to over 500.

The annual Cake Festival has grown into a highly anticipated gathering that blends culinary celebration with business networking.

A major highlight will be the Cake Buffet Experience, a unique offering where every guest enjoys a variety of delicious cakes, carefully crafted by Amina, her team, and partners. 

“Guests will also be treated to the vibrant cake runway, showcasing stunning cake designs displayed in a fashion-show style parade,” she said.

Beyond the culinary excitement, the festival will feature panel discussions focused on business growth, entrepreneurship, and industry opportunities, creating a space for learning, connection, and empowerment.

The 2025 edition has attracted strong backing from major corporate sponsors including Mombasa Maize Millers, Legacy Kenya, Absa Bank, Taqwa Sacco, KNCCI, Swahili Pot Hub, YEPI Africa, among others.

With over 500 guests expected, including business professionals, families, influencers, and industry leaders, the 3rd Minat Cake Festival promises to be the biggest edition yet, a powerful celebration of Amina’s journey, her impact, and the thriving baking community she continues to build.

Safaricom’s Shangwe @25 nationwide consumer promotion continues to reward customers across the country, with five more Kenyans becoming the latest millionaires.

Hannah Ngige from Komarock in Nairobi, Wellington Juma from Kisumu, Taala Chelanga from Elgeyo Marakwet, Elizabeth Wairimu from Thika, and Sheila Cheptoo from Bomet, each received Kes 1 million, bringing the total number of millionaires in the campaign to ten (10) since its launch last month.

In addition to the cash prize money, each winner also received an extra Kes 250,000 to support a community initiative of their choice.

Speaking during the award ceremony at Jacaranda Grounds in Nairobi, where Safaricom also gifted customers through the Green Box mechanic, 56-year-old Hannah Ngige, a mother of two and a resident of Komarock, expressed her gratitude to Safaricom, noting that the win came as a complete surprise, especially during these tough economic times.

“I sell second-hand items, so I make many transactions on M-PESA and Pochi, and I believe that really boosted my entries. I am extremely happy and grateful. I plan to invest part of this money back into my business, and I also want to start tomato farming in Kimana, Loitoktok, something I’ve always dreamed of but could never afford. For my community project, I would like to support Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, which is near where I live, by providing beddings for the maternity wing,” she said.

Another winner, 39-year-old Wellington Juma, a Clinical Officer at Chulaimbo Health Centre in Kisumu, said he was overwhelmed after receiving the congratulatory call and later confirming the win at the Safaricom Kisumu Shop.

"I had just returned from night shift when I received the call. At first, I thought it was fraud, but after confirmation text, I believed it. I plan to complete my house under construction and equip my small clinic. For the community project, I want to support a widows’ group in Ahero that hires tents and chairs to earn a living,” he said.

For 25-year-old poultry farmer and mother of one, Sheila Cheptoo from Bomet, the news came when she was unwell and resting.

"I had just finished feeding my chicken and gone back to bed when the call came. I didn’t believe it until the confirmation message arrived, my sickness even disappeared. I normally buy bundles and minutes through M-PESA, and I had accumulated some entries. I plan to expand my poultry business to large scale and also support my siblings’ school fees. For the community project, I will support Kitoben Primary Children’s Home with beddings and food,” she said.

Taala Chelanga, also 25 and a mother of two from Elgeyo Marakwet, was still in disbelief even when we spoke.

“I don't know how a million looks like, I have never held such an amount in my life. This is a miracle from Safaricom. I plan to buy land and build a home for my family,” she said.

Similarly, shopkeeper and mother of four, Elizabeth Wairimu from Thika, said the win was a miracle during a difficult season for her family.

"My four children rely on my small kiosk, and sometimes I wash clothes for people to earn extra income. I mainly use M-PESA to buy airtime and data bundles. I plan to buy a plot, build rental units to boost my income, and expand my kiosk. For my community project, I will support Twiga Primary School in Juja with textbooks because many children from humble backgrounds are often sent home for lacking them,” she said.

Beyond the individual winners, 10 micro and small businesses also won big.

Five won Bajaj tricycles to aid in business logistics such as transportation of stock and deliveries.

They include Sakifarm Limited- Nairobi, a grower and exporter of avocado, Millys The Redbeet Fresh Mart- Voi, a grocery store, Tito Busienei Koiyet- Eldoret, a farmer of Avocado, Macadamia and Livestock, Leonard Oongo- Kisumu, a retailer and Carrix Media Group Limited- Kiambu, an ICT company.

The other five won business stocks worth Kes 250,000 each to boost the growth of their businesses.

They include EBEE Mobility Kenya Limited- Homabay, an auto repair, Justus Kiprono Koros in Kericho Town, selling construction material, Robert Nyakundi Ayuka, an Insurance Broker in Kisii town, Taifa Sacco Limited- Nyeri and Federico Investments, an investment agency.

Moringa School limited, the European Union, and the United Nations Federal Credit were the winners under the large and medium enterprises receiving Kes 500,000 each to support a CSR project of their choice as part of spreading cheer during the festive season.

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

Every week, customers win Kes 10,000, Kes 50,000, or Kes 100,000, contributing to more than 50,000 winners weekly.

Over the promotion period, more than 5 million customers are expected to win prizes worth Kes 250 million.

Customers can participate by transacting on M-PESA, sending money, paying with M-PESA, redeeming Bonga Points, or purchasing Safaricom products such as data bundles, voice bundles, digital services, or Home Fibre.

Merchants and M-PESA agents also qualify through Buy Goods, Pochi la Biashara, and transactions from Kes 1,000 and above.

A section of ODM women supporters in Mombasa has come out strongly to defend Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, urging party members to stop fighting her and acknowledge her position as the ODM national chairperson.

The group said Wanga’s leadership has been key in strengthening the party’s grassroots networks across the country.

Mombasa County ODM Secretary Betty Sharon emphasized that Wanga is the highest-ranking woman leader in the party and deserves full recognition.

"They should stop fighting Gladys Wanga and recognise her as the ODM party chairperson. She is the topmost woman leader in ODM and that must be respected. They should stop using Interior PS Raymond Omollo to fight Gladys Wanga,” said Sharon.

On her patlrt Fatma Mohammed, ODM party supporter, urged party members to uplift women in leadership.

“We need to support women leaders and not drag them down. There is a reason why the late Raila Odinga was comfortable with her being the chairperson and this should be respected. You cannot bring someone down just because of their agenda,” she said.

Mombasa-based ODM mobiliser Quinter Awira also defended Wanga, crediting her for strengthening the party and securing key victories.

“Gladys Wanga has been instrumental in building this party, so we cannot allow anyone to interfere. As party loyalists, we will stand with Gladys Wanga. We know all this noise is because of the victory she delivered in the just concluded Kasipul by-election,” said Awira.

Saphire Hotel officially kicked off the festive season with a vibrant Christmas tree lighting ceremony that attracted guests, families and partners from across Mombasa.

The annual event, held at the hotel’s courtyard, marked the beginning of holiday celebrations as the coastal city gears up for the December festivities.

This year’s ceremony was headlined by celebrated artist Jua Cali, who graced the occasion as the chief guest and thrilled attendees with an electrifying performance.

The event adopted a glamorous Grammy-themed red carpet, celebrating a musical and star-studded festive edition that added colour and elegance to the evening.

Hotel Managing Director Inaara Jiwan said the ceremony was not just about lighting a Christmas tree but celebrating joy, unity and the people who make the hotel what it is.

“Christmas is not about having a perfect tree, but having one that brings joy  and that is why today is special. It’s special because we are all here together. Tonight, we also celebrate our staff and the guests who show us unwavering loyalty,” she said.

The evening also featured a traditional cake-mixing session, symbolising togetherness and the spirit of giving as the festive season unfolds.