ACTOM Kenya, a leading provider of engineered solutions in the energy sector, recently completed an order to supply electrical distribution panels to a newly constructed Electric Vehicle (EV) charging site in Nairobi.

This is the third such order that ACTOM Kenya has fulfilled for BasiGo, a leading provider of electric bus solutions in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Kelvin Ageng’o Oriwo, General Manager at ACTOM Kenya, explains that these installations are designed to handle huge electrical loads, with incoming ratings of up to 1 600 amps.

The newest site has five dedicated charging lines rated at 250 amps each, specifically for electric buses, along with an additional 100-amp line to support general site usage.

"ACTOM’s panels connect the chargers to the electrical grid, ensuring safe, reliable and efficient power distribution. Our role is to help BasiGo translate its vision into operational reality by delivering infrastructure that is not only technically sound but future-ready,” says Oriwo.

Uptick in activity and investment

Support for EV infrastructure in Kenya is still in its early stages, but recently there has been a noticeable uptick in activity and investment.

A private sector company is currently planning a nationwide rollout of EV charging stations, strategically alongside their existing petrol stations.

At the same time, state-owned utility Kenya Power and Lighting Company is also showing a strong interest.

Initially, its push was framed around climate goals and sustainability, however, they are now also viewing EV charging as a strategic opportunity to diversify revenue streams.

"Private sector players like BasiGo are already operational. Due to limited public infrastructure, many are building private charging stations tailored to their own standards, filling critical gaps and accelerating ecosystem growth,” says Oriwo.

"ACTOM sees EV charging as a natural extension of our renewable energy strategy and a key pillar in our contribution to the global Net Zero and climate conservation agenda. Our work with clients like BasiGo, including residential EV charging deployments, aligns directly with this mission.”

Addressing public transport challenge

Additionally, Oriwo says that electric mobility is a way to introduce a more formal structure to Kenya’s public transport sector, which has been characterised by various disruptions since privatisation in the 1990s.

"The instability within the sector needs to be addressed, and one of the most promising ways to restore order is through the adoption of e-mobility, which, by its very nature, introduces structure. With structure comes not only standards, rhythms and operational discipline, but also heightened safety, service quality and environmental responsibility.”

However, Oriwo notes that some technical and operational challenges do exist in terms of deploying EV charging stations in Kenya, especially as it is a new industry, with no set playbook to follow.

Each installation a learning curve

"Unlike petrol stations, offices or roads, where standards are well-established, EV infrastructure is being defined as we build it. Every installation is a learning curve, and every rollout demands close collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders,” he says.

"The EV space is full of moving parts, and that is where the complexity lies. But it is also where the opportunity lives, because every challenge we solve becomes part of the foundation for a more structured, reliable and sustainable future.”

Philip Gorman, the Head of Charging Infrastructure at BasiGo, emphasised that the successful rollout of electric buses in Kenya depends on strong collaboration across the ecosystem.

“We are glad to work with companies such as ACTOM Kenya to lay the foundation of charging infrastructure in the country and accelerate the transition to clean, reliable, and sustainable electric mobility for all.”

The Kenya Ports Asuthoriy (KPA) has unveiled the artistic impression of the new ferry terminal.

The new design shows a blending of modern function with timeless coastal heritage. 

The arches and geometric motifs borrow from Swahili-Islamic architecture, a style rooted in East Africa’s shorelines.

Last week, KPA hosted a stakeholders engagement on the proposed new terminal.

Among those present at the forum was Likoni Member of Parliament Mishi Mboko who termed the project as timely.

" If we ha this before we would not have faced the current safety challenges being experienced at the ferry" said Mboko.

In a speech read on his behalf by the Ferry Services General Manager Bakari Gowa, KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto need the new terminal will restore dignity to daily movement and provide a safer space

Over 400,000 people and 6,000 vehicles depend on the channel each day, yet for years, the sheds, ramps, and safety systems have been stretched to the limit.

The upgrades will see passenger holding bays expanded and rebuilt, while landing ramps will be widened to ease the constant pressure of vehicles moving in and out of the ferries. 

Pedestrian skybridges and safer waiting sheds will be added to protect commuters from the daily scramble, while the bus terminal will be relocated and formalized to end the chaos of uncoordinated boarding.

The plan also integrates economic opportunities by creating more than 900 stalls for informal traders, ensuring small businesses remain part of the ferry ecosystem. 

Construction is set to begin in a month on the mainland Likoni side and will run over 24 months. 

Bandari Maritime Academy Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Eric Katana, officially received and honored four cadets set to begin their Global Onboarding Training (GOBT) program under the Korea Institute of Maritime and Fisheries Technology (KIMFT).

The cadets Aisha Mueke (Engine), Belinda Adhiambo (Deck), Gene Kipchumba (Deck), and Mahmoud Daudi (Engine) will undergo the intensive three-month program designed to equip them with world-class practical skills for seafaring careers.

In the spirit of East African regional unity and cooperation, Dr. Katana also welcomed students from the Dar es Salaam Maritime Institute (DMI), Tanzania, who are joining the training program alongside their Kenyan counterparts.

In his acknowledgement of the program, Dr. Katana lauded the opportunity as a milestone for the Academy and the region, noting that international exposure sharpens cadets’ competencies and strengthens Kenya’s position in the global Blue Economy workforce.

Also present was Deputy Director of Maritime Education and Training, Chief Engineer Titus Kilonzi, who emphasized the importance of continuous capacity building to align Maritime professionals with international standards.

Samsung Electronics East Africa has unveiled the 2025 NEO QLED 100-inch AI TV (S-QA100QN80FUXKE), its most advanced flagship television yet, setting a new benchmark in large-screen home entertainment.

The launch event, held at the Glee Hotel in Nairobi, showcased Samsung’s latest innovation under the bold tagline: “Vision AI is here, The Next Big Thing in Television.”

Crafted for ultimate immersion, the Samsung NEO QLED 100-inch AI TV combines cutting-edge display and audio technologies with the power of Samsung’s Vision AI platform.

“Kenya deserves nothing less than the very best in television technology,” said Rahul Kochhar, Business Head, Consumer Electronics Division, Samsung Electronics East Africa.

“With Vision AI, we are not just making pictures more vivid or sound more immersive; we are rethinking how TV interacts with the home, how it learns, adapts, and becomes part of daily life. This 100-inch AI TV flagship is the strongest expression of that vision.”

Key Features and Specifications

100-inch NEO QLED Display: Expansive screen engineered for cinematic viewing at home or in commercial spaces.

NQ AI Processor: Intelligent processor that dynamically adjusts picture and sound based on content type and room conditions.

Quantum Matrix Mini LED Technology: Provides precise backlight control for superior contrast, deep blacks, and peak brightness levels.

4K UHD Resolution with AI Upscaling: Enhances lower-resolution content to near-4K quality.

HDR10+ and Auto HDR Remastering: Frame-by-frame optimisation for vibrant, lifelike colours.

Anti-Glare and Ultra-Viewing Angle Technology: Ensures clarity and colour accuracy even in bright rooms.

Dolby Atmos and OTS (Object Tracking Sound): Immersive, three-dimensional audio with dialogue clarity enhancements.

Smart Hub with Vision AI: Unified access to streaming apps, cloud gaming, live TV, and smart home controls.

Samsung Gaming Hub: Supports 4K 120Hz, FreeSync Premium Pro, and cloud gaming platforms.

Tizen OS with 7-Year Upgrade Programme: Guaranteed long-term support for software, security, and new features.

Design: Ultra-slim profile with a near bezel-less frame and clean cable management for premium aesthetics.

Designed for the Kenyan Market

The Samsung NEO QLED 100-inch AI TV is positioned for households, premium apartments, and high-end commercial venues across Kenya.

With the rapid growth of streaming services, improved broadband access, and a rising middle and upper-income consumer base, demand for intelligent, large-screen televisions is at an all-time high.

Kenyan consumers increasingly seek TVs that go beyond screen size, delivering intelligence, durability, and smart home integration.

Samsung is committed to providing premium customers with premium care. The new 100-inch NEO QLED AI TV comes with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty when purchased through authorised dealers.

Customers also benefit from professional installation by certified technicians, priority servicing in major cities, and access to Samsung’s nationwide service network.

Support is available through Samsung’s 24/7 call centre, the Samsung Members app, and authorised service partners, ensuring peace of mind throughout the ownership journey.

"As Samsung, we believe innovation must serve the people,” said Sam Odhiambo, Head of Consumer Electronics Business Kenya.

“We have designed this television for discerning Kenyan customers who seek something beyond the ordinary: premium craftsmanship, intelligent features, local support, and long-term value. We are excited to bring this next big thing in television to the Kenyan market.”

The Samsung NEO QLED 100-inch AI TV will be available through Samsung’s authorised dealers, flagship stores, and selected retail partners. The recommended retail Price (RPP) is KES 699,000.

The MTV Staying Alive Foundation (MTV SAF) has greenlit the second season of MTV Shuga Mashariki and today confirms that the new season is set to hit screens early 2026.

This announcement comes on the back of a landmark comeback season in 2025, that captivated millions across Kenya and beyond, while captivating young audiences.

Broadcasting in Kenya and internationally on BET, the recently aired season of MTV Shuga Mashariki carried on the franchise’s legacy and proved not just entertaining but transformative while blending bold storytelling with authentic Kenyan voices to spark real world dialogue for lasting impact. 

Mitchelle Kimathi, Country Manager (Kenya) at MTV SAF, says, “The return of MTV Shuga Mashariki was more than a relaunch, it was a revival of authentic Kenyan storytelling that speaks directly to youth and some of the challenges that they face."

Adding ''We are excited to continue engaging in bold storytelling that will allow traditionally uncomfortable conversations to happen as we challenge restrictive norms by tapping into creative content to amplify the voices, realities and ambitions of young Kenyans through powerful and relatable narratives told through homegrown creators.”

The first season brought together a stellar Kenyan cast including Serah Wanjiru, Basil Mungai, Matthew Ngugi, Fatuma Gichuru, Julie Brenda, Fridah Mumbe, Mariam Bishar, Makena Kahuha and Wilson Muchemi – cementing MTV Shuga Mashariki as both a showpiece for fresh talent and a defining cultural force.

On top of being broadcasted nationally and globally via BET, the series has so far garnered over 2.8 million YouTube views and significant engagement on social media platforms, with more than 81,000 interactions on Instagram and TikTok, a testament to MTV Shuga Mashariki’s strength in connecting with youth on digital platforms, where they already spend most of their time.

MTV Shuga Mashariki, produced by MTV SAF, is part of the Surround Sound Kenya Programme which is seeking to open up conversations on gender norms and how they affect the outcomes and livelihoods of young people. 

At the same time, MTV SAF has unveiled 25Flow music program that is looking for young and fresh Kenyan music talent, to send in their musical works for consideration to be part of the creation of original soundtracks for season 2 of MTV Shuga Mashariki.

This collaboration with So Fresh (one of Kenya’s leading local music producers) will seek to give emerging musical talent an opportunity to undergo a mentorship program prior to their music being featured on season 2 of the show.

Wame Jallow, Executive Director of the MTV Staying Alive Foundation, says, “ Through the MTV Shuga franchise, we’re not just entertaining but igniting conversations that lead to real, lasting impact,” adding,“We’re proud to once again feature an exceptional Kenyan-led team of directors, cast, crew and producers in the upcoming season, reaffirming our commitment to stories that reflect the truths, challenges and hopes of young people as they navigate their unique and often complex journeys.” 

After more than a decade away, MTV Shuga’s 2025 relaunch in Kenya as MTV Shuga Mashariki proved to be a cultural moment, reigniting conversations on love, ambition, peer pressure, sexual health, consent, mental health well-being and gender based violence. The show continues to tackle the issues that matter most that are rooted in the lived realities of young people. 

MTV Shuga Mashariki has become a vital platform for educating and empowering young people, while sparking crucial conversations on health, justice and sexual reproductive rights. Grounded in youth-led insights and authentic storytelling, its Kenyan-driven production offers a replicable model for catalyzing positive change.

Season two will once again be produced entirely in Kenya, showcasing real stories created by and for Kenyan youth, while delivering MTV Shuga’s signature gripping drama and bold themes.

In recent months, fans have been revisiting season one, eagerly speculating about which cast members and directors will return. Closed auditions are currently underway to fill a select number of roles, with production scheduled to begin later this year. Stay tuned for updates as MTV Shuga Mashariki prepares to make its highly anticipated return to the screen.

The Mombasa Suppliers Association has voiced strong support for the government’s recent decision to allocate KSh 41 billion for expanding the Port of Mombasa, calling it a vital move to address mounting trade pressure and congestion at Kenya’s key maritime gateway.

According to the association Chairman Evans Momanyi, the expansion will improve efficiency, reduce delays in cargo handling, and lower costs for importers and exporters. 

"This is a great move from our government, this will not only create jobs and other opportunities to our people including suppliers but also continue positioning our port at the international level." said Momanyi.

Adding " All that we are requesting for now from our president is to please make sure that the tenure of the current Managing Director Captain William Ruto is extended so as to ensure that he sees through this plan and continue implementing the good projects as he has been doing."

On his part Julius Musyoki,a representative of persons with disabilities at the association lauded the government for implementing several developement projects in Mombasa especially the newly launched Mombasa commuter rail service.

"In the past we used to face alot of difficulties on how to access the standard gauge railway station in Miritini but thank God that the government has now listened to our cry." said Musyoki.

Concerning the port expansion plan Kamau noted "We pray that this will also be another opportunity for persons living with disabilities to get jobs through the different opportunities that will come up from the expansion."

Speaking on Wednesday during the official launch of the Mombasa commuter rail service, President William Ruto said that the government has allocated Sh41 billion to expand the port of Mombasa in a bid to ease congestion and accommodate rising cargo volumes driven by growing trade.

The President also revealed that a new yard would be constructed before the end of the year to manage additional cargo.

"The government has committed Ksh41 billion to expand the Port of Mombasa, making it more efficient, bigger, and better,” the President stated.

Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) has marked yet another major milestone in its mission to be the premier Centre of Excellence in Shipping, Maritime, and Blue Economy education and training. 

The Academy has officially been accredited as an examination centre for the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS), United Kingdom a globally recognized professional body for commercial shipping practitioners.

This accreditation opens new doors for Maritime professionals and students in Kenya and the wider East African region to pursue internationally recognized qualifications in shipbroking, chartering, Maritime law, logistics, and other critical areas of the shipping industry all while sitting their examinations locally at Bandari Maritime Academy in Mombasa.

Acknowledging the announcement, BMA CEO Dr. Eric Katana hailed the accreditation as a game-changer for Kenya’s maritime and logistics sector.

“This recognition by the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers positions BMA as a gateway to world-class Maritime education and professional growth. It will greatly reduce the cost and logistical challenges for students and industry practitioners who previously had to travel abroad to sit for their examinations,” said Dr. Katana.

The ICS qualification is widely regarded as the “gold standard” in commercial shipping, with members enjoying global recognition and credibility in the shipping and logistics industry. By becoming an accredited centre, Bandari Maritime Academy strengthens its role in building a skilled workforce to support Kenya’s growing Blue Economy ambitions and position the country as a competitive Maritime hub.

President William Ruto has officially commissioned the Mombasa commuter rail service.

The new rail service connects Mombasa central business district (CBD) to the Standard gauge railway station in Miritini.

With strategic stops at Miritini, Changamwe West, Changamwe East, Shimanzi, Mazeras, and Mombasa CBD, the service is expected to transport up to 4,000 passengers daily.

It is designed to not only decongest the city’s roads but also provide a safer, more affordable, and time-saving alternative for commuters and tourists alike.

Speaking during the commissioning, Ruto termed this as a  vital solution some of the city’s most pressing challenges.

"For too long, passengers commuting between the Mombasa central business district and the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) terminus at Miritini have endured congestion, delays, and the burden of unreliable road traffic." said Ruto.

Adding " With this new service, journeys will be faster, safer, and more predictable. It will cut commuting time between Mombasa town and the SGR terminal, reduce road gridlocks, lower accidents and costs, and provide residents and visitors with a modern, affordable, and reliable travel option."

Passengers will be required to pay a 50 Shillings fare charge to use the train

Ruto noted "The cost of a matatu ride from the terminus to the city is about Sh400 per person, while a taxi costs approximately Sh1,000. This new service charges only Sh50, making a huge price difference."

The new service will offer a “Park and Ride” or “Drop and Ride” options.

The event was was also attended by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir ,Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Hassan Joho and his sports counterpart Salim Mvurya, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, local Mps among other leaders.

https://ommydalla.co.ke/people/item/4191-give-mombasa-youth-jobs-at-new-railway-station-machele-tells-ruto

Mvita MP Mohammed Machele has urged President William Ruto to prioritize the employment of youth from Mvita and Mombasa at large in the newly commissioned Mombasa Railway Commuter Station.

Speaking during the official launch of the facility, Machele emphasized that local youth deserve first consideration for available opportunities.

"Mr. President, there are many offices and job opportunities within this station that require personnel. My humble request is that priority be given to the youth of Mvita and Mombasa," he said.

The legislator also lauded the government for actualizing the project, noting its impact on easing transport costs for residents.

https://ommydalla.co.ke/people/item/4192-president-ruto-commissions-mombasa-commuter-rail-service

"Our people will no longer need to spend Kshs 1,000 on taxi fare. With just Kshs 50, they can now travel from town to the SGR terminus in Miritini. This is a huge relief, and we are grateful," Machele remarked.

He further appreciated ongoing development projects in Mombasa, pledging continued support President Ruto.

"We are truly thankful for the many projects you have initiated in Mombasa. To us, this is a debt of gratitude, and we promise to walk with you on your 2027 journey. You can count on our support," he added.