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TECNO Launches CAMON 20 Series Mr Doodle Edition with World-First Graffiti-Style Back Cover in Kenya 

Val Lukhanyu
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TECNO Launches CAMON 20 Series Mr Doodle Edition with World-First Graffiti-Style Back Cover in Kenya 

TECNO has launched the CAMON 20 Series Mr Doodle Edition – a new addition to the popular CAMON 20 Series designed in collaboration with the graffiti artist Mr Doodle. The phone adopts the moon phase color changing technology, combining Mr Doodle’s graffiti paintings with CAMON 20’s unique 3D design. The back cover absorbs light during the day time and releases it as fluorescence at night, allowing the phone’s back to display Mr Doodle’s graffiti works. The unique design of CAMON 20 Series Mr Doodle Edition makes it a fashion icon during the day and an eye-catcher at night, making it a true master that combines fashion and art. 

Mr Doodle, otherwise known as UK-based artist Sam Cox, has been interested in graffiti since he was 2 years old and started his doodle journey from his furniture to his bedroom. His signature slogan is to leave no corner undoodled and he won’t stop until he has filled every blank space with his markers. His large-scale doodle art installations have garnered over 36 million views online, making him an internet sensation. To him, anything can be a canvas, and he dreams of covering the moon with his doodles. Today, with millions of followers on Instagram and collaborations with world-renowned fashion brands such as Adidas and Fendi, he releases co-branded fashion products, making him one of the hottest millennial art pioneers today. 

 “TECNO CAMON series has always been committed to embracing art with innovative technology that constantly breaks boundaries, and bringing consumers products both artistic and high-tech. This is in line with Mr Doodle’s creative spirit of leaving no blank undoodled. We hope the masterpiece which conbined both TECNO and Mr Doodle’s joint efforts, will bring users innovative experience. ” said Mr. Jack Guo, General Manager of TECNO, “TECNO also expects to encourage individuals to follow Mr Doodle’s creating spirit, and to show the fashion attitude and capture wonderful moments without leaving any blank.” 

Following the industry’s first CAMON PUZZLE deconstructionist design of TECNO CAMON 20 series, the back cover of TECNO CAMON 20 Mr Doodle Edition is constructed from a 3D PGI material and applies 3D diamond cutting design technique, to give the surface a three-dimensional effect that reflects light from different angles, creating a dazzling diamond-like shine. In addition, the moon phase color changing technology TECNO CAMON 20 Mr Doodle Edition adopted enables the back cover refract light from its diamond-like surface in dark environment, and display the Mr Doodle’s graffiti painting. TECNO CAMON 20 Mr Doodle Edition also comes with Mr Doodle graffiti style customized wallpaper, AR SHOT and AOD, bringing users more  surprise beyond looks.  

“It was a great experience working with TECNO to produce the CAMON 20 Series Mr Doodle Edition,” said Mr Doodle. “I am always looking for new ways to bring my designs to life and to bring joy through my work. TECNO’s philosophy of uniting the worlds of art, innovation and technology with modern, stylish designs is really inspiring to me. Based on this consensus, I just let my hand to the happy work and was able to incorporate my usual flowing lines, happy characters and abstract details and with a particular focus on technology as a general theme to the content. It’s very exciting to see the beauty of graffiti art that can be shared with more people through TECNO’s innovative product”.  

TECNO CAMON 20 Series Mr Doodle Edition reflects TECNO’s ambition to push the limits of both artistic and technological possibilities. Through continuous innovation, the series delivers not only a one-of-a-kind design, but also advanced, professional photography capabilities and exceptional user experience. Empowering users to capture special moments in stunning detail, TECNO CAMON 20 Series Mr Doodle Edition boasts Sensor-Shift OIS Anti-shaking Technology and 50MP RGBW Ultra-Sensitive Sensor for crystal-clear portraits even in low light.  

TECNO CAMON 20 Series Mr Doodle Edition is made up of the CAMON 20 Premier 5G Mr Doodle Edition, CAMON 20 Pro 5G Mr Doodle Edition and CAMON 20 Pro Mr Doodle Edition. The series’ Mr Doodle’s iconic artwork will retail at Kshs. 28,499 for the CAMON 20, Kshs. 35,499 for the CAMON 20 Pro, Kshs. 44,999 for the CAMON 20 Pro 5G and Kshs. 61,999 for the CAMON 20 Premier 5G edition. All devices will be in store starting 20th September 2023. 

SA’s Stitch launches WigWag, a no code, link payment solution for SMEs

James Musoba
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SA’s Stitch launches WigWag, a no code, link payment solution for SMEs

South Africa’s payments infrastructure company Stitch has launched WigWag, a new brand designed to serve SMEs and individual business owners with easy, no code payment solutions.

Powered by the Stitch API, WigWag aims to help small and growing businesses to accept local and international card payments in minutes, without the need for a website or developer resources. They simply need to send a unique payment link to customers in any chat or email.

According to Danielle Laity, WigWag Product Manager at Stitch, “At Stitch, we realise payments aren’t one-size-fits-all. Small businesses require access to simple, out-of-the-box tools that can make it easier and faster to collect payments. We created WigWag specifically with these small business clients in mind. Now anyone can have access to reliable payments, powered by the Stitch API, and offer their customers a truly seamless experience.”   

Virtually any individual or business that would like to accept digital payments can use WigWag to register and verify their business in minutes via the WigWag website, then generate a link for your customer with the amount and when you want it to expire then send the link to the customer via any social media chat, WhatsApp, SMS or email. That’s it! The customer can make a fast, easy card payment just by clicking the link and you can see which payments are still pending and reconcile all transactions through the same dashboard.

The social commerce industry presents a strong opportunity in South Africa. The sector is expected to grow by 63.7% on an annual basis to US $1363.9 million in 2023 – and is further expected to record a CAGR of 38.4% during 2022-2028.

Today, informal enterprises constitute 28.8% of South African businesses. In 2019, over 51% of those informal enterprises indicated they had encountered strong interest from customers in making payments with card, and this has continued to grow.f

Founded by Kiaan Pillay, Natalie Cuthbert, and Priyen Pillay to provide full API access to financial accounts across Africa, starting with South Africa. Stitch allows developers to connect apps to financial accounts using its API. Users can share their transaction history and balances, confirm their identities, and make payments using this feature.

“I’m loving [WigWag]! It’s so easy to check my Instagram sales in one place. When I do a drop and create links, there’s my whole postal list right there. No admin,” said Tamsyn Postma, Owner, Dear Prudence Vintage.

To sign up for WigWag, interested businesses can create an account via the website. As part of launch promotions, the first 300 businesses that sign up for WigWag can send a payment link to the WIgWag team and will receive R100.

Stitch announced the launch of Card payments as it expanded into an end-to-end payments service provider in March this year. As the core Stitch API is designed to serve enterprise businesses with complex payments needs, WigWag was designed specifically to enable easy payments for SMEs while leveraging the Stitch card rails.

Stitch emerged from stealth in February 2021 and expanded into Nigeria in October 2021. The firm raised $21 million in Series A funding in February 2022. Backers include PayPal Ventures, TrueLayer, firstminute capital, The Raba Partnership, CRE Venture Capital, Village Global, Zinal Growth (the investment vehicle of Checkout.com founder Guillaume Pousaz) and angels including founders and early builders from Chipper Cash, Monzo, Venmo, GoCardless, Plaid, Unit and more.

The firm earlier raised $4 million in a seed round from an impressive global investor lineup to prepare for its pan-African expansion. Later the firm secured an additional US$6 million in its seed round for its expansion into Nigeria.

Stitch also partnered with ImaliPay to launch in South Africa, and to help them get more money into the hands of the significant gig worker population in this market. ImaliPay launched in South Africa with a number of vendor partners, initially focused on buy-now-pay-later services, with savings to follow. Gig workers can use ImaliPay to purchase petrol, smartphones, airtime, and other tools through a WhatsApp chatbot. They’ll be given vouchers to utilize at partner vendors to purchase the tools they need.

ImaliPay has powered over 400,000 litres of petrol and enabled over 30 million rides on ride-sharing platforms in Kenya and Nigeria since its launch in 2020. They’ve also made it possible for gig workers to save money and get affordable insurance.

Binance to Airdrop up to $500,000 in BNB to Users in Libya to Support Flood Recovery

James Musoba
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Binance to Airdrop up to $500,000 in BNB to Users in Libya to Support Flood Recovery

In response to the devastation caused by the recent floods in Libya, Binance will airdrop BNB worth USD $100 to all Binance users who have completed Proof of Address (POA) in Libya.

Identification of the users will be based on POA completed before 11th September 2023 across the country.

Users who have completed POA before 11th September 2023 will each receive $100 in BNB directly in their Binance account. For any existing user who completes POA after 11th September 2023 and before 30th September 2023, we will donate $25 in BNB directly to your Binance account. Furthermore, all active transacting users across Libya will receive $10 in BNB.

Funds will reach our users starting 13th September, 2023. While the POA method has its limitations and inaccuracies, it is the best method we have available for us to locate potentially impacted users. With a commitment of up to $500,000 in BNB, we expect to support around 13,000 users directly with these efforts.

In the aftermath of natural disasters, people often lose access to traditional banking at the exact moment when extra funds are needed to help cover medical supplies, food and other essential needs.

Crypto transfers are now increasingly being used to deliver financial aid to disaster victims as they provide fast, low-cost, borderless and transparent transactions.

Binance Charity has also launched a public donation address for anyone to donate. For everything we receive on this address, we will donate the total crypto amount to an authorized NGO (to be named soon) to help people in need. Donations will be accepted in BNB, BTC, ETH, USDC, USDT, or BUSD.

In these difficult times, Binance stands by our users and we will continue to work on additional ways to help our community in Libya. Binance has also provided recent support to users in Ukraine, Turkey and Morocco.

Irish Tech Challenge offering support to local tech startups in South Africa

Partner Content
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Irish Tech Challenge offering support to local tech startups in South Africa

By: Hahangwi Liphadzi, Incubation Manager at Tshimologong

Local tech startups are playing an increasingly important role in driving economic growth in South Africa. These startups are developing innovative solutions to address some of the country’s most pressing challenges, such as unemployment, poverty, and inequality.

One way that tech startups are contributing to economic growth is by creating jobs. According to a report by the South African Startup Ecosystem Report, as of May 2022 the 490 tech startups in South Africa had created over 11,000 jobs. This is a significant number, considering that the country’s unemployment rate is currently at 32.9%.

In addition to creating jobs, the report also highlights how tech startups are helping to boost the South African economy by generating revenue. In 2022, South African tech startups raised over US$900 million in funding. This funding is being used to develop new products and services, expand into new markets.

The report also revealed that over 25 percent of South African tech startups have undergone some form of acceleration or incubation. These types of support services are very important for the development and resilience of startups. Institutions like Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct in Johannesburg are fundamental to this. They provide startups and entrepreneurs with the tools and support they need to grow and scale their businesses through its industry-leading Enterprise Development Model that is focused on developing skills for the digital economy. However, to scale and assist startups to expand into new markets local hubs need to partner with international accelerators like Dogpatch labs  who provide a similar range of support services in the Ireland ecosystem.

This is why opportunities like the Irish Tech Challenge South Africa 2023 are critical for the development of the South African tech ecosystem.The main problem with a lot of these startup support programs is the lack of accessibility to startups outside the main cities and their lack of diversity. The report revealed that less than 15 percent of the startups that have undergone acceleration or incubation have a female co-founder. 

However, the Irish Tech Challenge South Africa 2023 strongly encourages applications from women, young entrepreneurs and persons from disadvantaged communities. It provides 5 tech startups with up to €10 000 in grant funding and an opportunity to expand into new international markets.

In its pilot year of 2022, the Irish Tech Challenge also provided support and a networking trip to Ireland to 5 startups in various tech sectors. Some of the successful technopreneurs included Mukundi Lambani of Ambani Africa, an EdTech company that uses technology to enable various solutions to public and private beneficiaries. Sabelo Sibanda, founder of MLX Ventures, which offers AI-powered solutions to businesses said; “Participating in the Irish Tech Challenge has been truly transformative for me. I got to be exposed to the Irish Tech ecosystem and culture. This allowed me to grow my business, as a result.” These testimonials by some of the alumni of the Irish Tech Challenge, highlight just how beneficial this program is.

Furthermore, the Irish Tech Challenge South Africa also brings together governments, (Embassy of Ireland, Department of Science & Innovation (DSI) and the Technology Innovation Agency-TIA), international and local accelerators (Dogpatch labs and Tshimologong). This creates an incredible value proposition for this challenge which leverages various expertise from different stakeholders.

Apply now for this one of a kind tech challenge and elevate your startup into greater heights.

If you want to find out more about the Irish Tech Challenge South Africa, register for the virtual info day to be held on Wednesday 13 September here. Please visit www.irishtechchallenge.com to know everything about this opportunity of a lifetime. You can also email irishtechchallenge@tshimologong.joburg if you have any queries.

The Role of IT Security in Ensuring the Continuity of the University After Terrorist Attacks

James Musoba
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The Role of IT Security in Ensuring the Continuity of the University After Terrorist Attacks

In an era dominated by digital connectivity and data-driven academic operations, the significance of IT security within university settings cannot be emphasized enough. This imperative extends beyond the realm of safeguarding the integrity of educational institutions; it also serves as a cornerstone for their uninterrupted functioning in the face of constantly evolving threats. While traditional physical security measures have held a prominent place in the safeguarding of universities, the advent of the digital age ushers in a plethora of cyber vulnerabilities and complexities. Thus, it becomes paramount for academic institutions to embrace a proactive stance when it comes to IT security, recognizing it as an indispensable element within the broader security framework.

Understanding the Threat Landscape

The digital realm is an ever-shifting battlefield. Over the years, universities have seen a myriad of threats, ranging from simple malware attacks to sophisticated cyberespionage campaigns. The evolution of terrorist threats now extends to cyberterrorism, where attacks can cripple systems, manipulate data, or even expose sensitive information. It is therefore essential for universities to assess their vulnerabilities, but make it part of education too. Every student who wants to delve deeper into the IT domain should learn about the threat landscape. Having to write an essay on this topic might be a common assignment. Here you can check GradesFixer essays and understand the topic more in depth. Reading a legit essay by legit writing services with an incredibly good essay service review will help you understand how to navigate the IT environment better. And to learn more about what universities should do so that they will reduce their vulnerabilities. 

To navigate this complex landscape, universities must actively assess their vulnerabilities. This involves considering their IT infrastructure, software applications, user behavior, and data management practices. By conducting routine risk assessments, universities can gauge their exposure to threats like ransomware, data breaches, and denial-of-service attacks, thereby crafting tailored defense mechanisms.

Building Resilience Through IT Security

Resilience in the face of terrorist threats goes beyond mere reaction; it requires a proactive security posture. Central to this is the establishment of a comprehensive IT security strategy. This entails:

  • Network Protection: This encompasses the reinforcement of the university’s IT networks to thwart unauthorized access and potential breaches. Vital tools such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and virtual private networks (VPNs) play a pivotal role in this endeavor.
  • Data Encryption: Whether it pertains to research findings or student records, data stands as a precious asset. Encryption tools serve as the safeguard, ensuring that even if data interception occurs, it remains unintelligible and futile to malevolent actors.
  • Disaster Recovery Planning: In the unfortunate event of an attack or system malfunction, having a contingency blueprint to reinstate services and retrieve data becomes imperative. Regular backups, both on-site and off-site, serve as the linchpin, ensuring the integrity and accessibility of crucial data.

Moreover, embracing advanced technologies can further bolster a university’s defense mechanism. Artificial intelligence, for instance, can be utilized to predict potential threats or recognize abnormal patterns in network traffic. Similarly, threat detection systems can provide real-time alerts, allowing for immediate action against any breaches or anomalies.

Collaborative Efforts and Crisis Management

In the contemporary digital landscape, the intricate fabric of our interconnected world demands a concerted and synergistic approach to the realm of security. No longer can educational institutions exist as solitary islands in this vast and ever-expanding digital expanse. Instead, they must actively and vigorously engage with a multitude of stakeholders, forging robust alliances to fortify their defenses and elevate their crisis management capabilities to unprecedented heights.

Strengthening Partnerships with Law Enforcement and Government Bodies:

Academic institutions must forge robust partnerships with both local and national law enforcement agencies. This strategic collaboration ensures the smooth and efficient exchange of critical information, thereby enhancing the capacity to identify and thwart potential threats at their inception. Moreover, governmental entities typically possess a more comprehensive spectrum of intelligence resources, and when this invaluable knowledge is shared, it can substantially bolster the university’s threat assessment capabilities. Furthermore, the regulatory frameworks laid out by governing bodies can serve as a guiding compass for universities in the establishment of fundamental security protocols.

Engaging with Cybersecurity Experts and Think Tanks

In addition to conventional authorities, universities must foster collaborations with autonomous cybersecurity enterprises, seasoned experts, and cerebral think tanks. These entities stand sentinel at the vanguard of the ever-evolving cyber threat panorama. Through symbiotic partnerships with them, universities can glean profound insights into nascent perils, obscure zero-day susceptibilities, and state-of-the-art defensive technologies. The coalescence of workshops, seminars, and collaborative research initiatives can be the crucible wherein innovative cyber defense methodologies, meticulously customized for academic institutions, are forged.

Establishing Internal Crisis Response Teams

While external alliances hold paramount significance, universities must not overlook their internal dynamics. The creation of specialized crisis response units, comprised of adept IT specialists, proficient communication tacticians, and astute decision-makers, can significantly elevate the nimbleness and efficacy of the response mechanism. Consistent and rigorous training regimens, along with simulated exercises, serve as vital instruments to sustain the preparedness of these teams for a spectrum of potential cyber contingencies.

Collaboration with Other Educational Institutions

Terrorist menaces, especially those manifesting in the form of cyber assaults, seldom confine themselves to singular institutions. The cultivation of alliances with fellow universities and educational establishments can birth a cohesive defensive stratagem. The dissemination of threat intelligence, the exchange of optimal methodologies, and the pooling of resources can be instrumental in fostering a sturdier and more tenacious academic community as a unified entity.

Open Communication Channels with Students and Staff

Ultimately, the university’s populace, comprising both its students and staff, constitutes the initial line of defense as well as a potential point of vulnerability. The implementation of recurrent awareness campaigns, comprehensive training sessions, and constructive feedback mechanisms serves as the cornerstone in ensuring that they are not only well-versed in optimal practices but also perpetually vigilant in the face of looming threats. Cultivating an informed and watchful community can prove to be the decisive factor when confronted with the specter of cyber threats.

In essence, a holistic and collaborative approach, encompassing both internal and external affiliations, stands as the linchpin for universities in their quest to proficiently navigate and manage crises. By harnessing the collective wisdom and resources of an array of stakeholders, universities can not only withstand the perils of cyber threats but also thrive and prosper amid the crucible of adversity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the perpetual specter of terrorist threats, particularly within the digital realm, accentuates the utmost importance of information technology (IT) security in safeguarding the continuity and fortitude of universities. As custodians of vast reservoirs of knowledge, cutting-edge research, and copious troves of sensitive data, universities stand as prime targets on the cyber frontier. Therefore, it becomes an inherent institutional duty to accord preeminence to, invest in, and perpetually refine their IT security apparatus.

The trajectory of academia’s future, in many facets, hinges precariously upon its capacity to shield itself in the present. Universities must ardently champion the cause of IT security, not merely as an operational requisite, but as an indispensable facet of their unwavering dedication to the pursuit of knowledge, the dissemination of education, and the propulsion of societal advancement.

Image source: https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1526374965328-7f61d4dc18c5?ixlib=rb-4.0.3&ixid=M3wxMjA3fDB8MHxwaG90by1wYWdlfHx8fGVufDB8fHx8fA%3D%3D&auto=format&fit=crop&w=2940&q=80

Transform ▪ The 28th Anniversary Celebration of ” Transform”TIENS Group and the 2023 Global Carnival Summit Held

James Musoba
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Transform ▪ The 28th Anniversary Celebration of ” Transform”TIENS Group and the 2023 Global Carnival Summit Held

The “Transform ▪ The TIENS 28th Anniversary Celebration and 2023 Global Carnival Summit with the theme of ‘Transform’ were successfully held in September,  . More than 5000 offline distributors from around the world gathered here to participate in the grand event. During the conference, TIENS Group will conduct synchronous live streaming and relay to over 110 countries and regions around the world, achieving the sharing of globalization across borders, multiple languages, and diverse cultures. More than 20 million people participated online to jointly open the “Third Entrepreneurship and New Transformation” of TIENS Group!

Under the strategic guidance of “One Body, Multiple Wings”, TIENS Group has deepened its global development through the strategy of “all staff marketing, all staff live streaming, and all staff investment”. The summit will also welcome a large number of young and dynamic new faces, opening a new chapter for innovation and change, and jointly exploring new business opportunities and markets. Riding the wind of economic globalization, TIENS Group continuously contributes “TIENS wisdom” to the prosperity and development of various regions from a global and global perspective. It has created tens of millions of employment and entrepreneurial opportunities globally, making significant contributions to improving the quality of life and physical and mental health of billions of people.And injecting new impetus into the vigorous development of the big health industry.

SasaPay Reveals Fresh Approach in Mobile Money Payment Market

Diana Mutheu
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SasaPay Reveals Fresh Approach in Mobile Money Payment Market

Kenyan fintech, SasaPay, has announced a comprehensive new strategy aimed at expanding its customer base both within Kenya and in the diaspora market.

The company, known for its digital payments services, is shifting its focus towards delivering cutting-edge, seamless financial solutions to ensure secure payment experiences for various businesses, including players in the financial services sector, banks, Saccos, digital lenders, SMEs, and healthcare facilities.

SasaPay aims to assume a central role in the Kenyan economy by acting as a bridge between businesses and capital providers.

Part of this strategy involves facilitating quick and affordable access to working capital for businesses, which is expected to stimulate business growth.

The Chief Operating Officer and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SasaPay, Daniel Njoroge expressed the company’s vision: “Through our rebrand, we aim to redefine the role of payments and act as the meeting point between Kenyan businesses and their customers. Key to this will be empowering them to operate more efficiently to accelerate growth.”

SasaPay plans to leverage its Artificial Intelligence (AI-based innovative technology to provide timely and accurate data to capital providers, expediting decision-making processes for funding SMEs.

This approach is intended to foster business growth, increase employment opportunities, and improve the quality of life for households.

Additionally, SasaPay unveiled models that prioritize strategic partnerships to enhance the value derived from their wallets by customers.

These partnerships will encompass savings, lending, investments, and automated payments.

The CEO shared another significant development where SMEs will no longer be charged fees for receiving payments via SasaPay wallets.

Instead, customers will see their wallet balances accrue interest through collaborative partnerships with financial institutions, aligning with the firm’s philosophy of Shared Prosperity.

Individual users can also look forward to competitive transaction charges and automatic interest accrual on idle wallet balances.

“SasaPay will introduce a “Shop Now Pay Later” model, allowing users to shop and defer payment. Furthermore, SasaPay is setting its sights on the diaspora market by offering seamless fund transfers from the diaspora to Kenya and facilitating cross-border payments from Kenya. The company aims to establish a transaction platform for Kenyans in the diaspora to engage seamlessly with their families, businesses, and investments in Kenya, regardless of their location,’ Mr Njoroge added.

SasaPay Chairman Dr John Munyu highlighted the growing usage of mobile money in Kenya, citing the Central Bank Of Kenya (CBK) FinAccess report, which indicates a substantial increase from 28 per cent in 2009 to 81 per cent in 2022.

This trend underscores the importance of SasaPay’s mission to provide accessible and efficient financial services.

In closing, Mr Njoroge reaffirmed SasaPay’s ambition to position Kenya as the gateway to Africa through a robust financial ecosystem. The company is actively connecting SasaPay to global payment gateways to enable individuals and businesses on its platform to conduct transactions with counterparts worldwide, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility.

Telegram Introduces TON Space, a Cryptocurrency Wallet to Its 800 Million Monthly Active User Base

Diana Mutheu
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Telegram Introduces TON Space, a Cryptocurrency Wallet to Its 800 Million Monthly Active User Base

Telegram has unveiled TON Space, a significant development in its journey towards establishing a Web3 ecosystem, marking a turning point for the messaging app giant.

This announcement comes three years after Telegram initially introduced its ambitious Web3 ecosystem plans, which faced hurdles when the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) intervened.

However, at the Token2049 event held in Singapore recently, Telegram triumphantly presented TON Space, a self-custodial cryptocurrency wallet, to its extensive user base of 800 million monthly active users.

Reports indicate that Telegram Wallet users can now seamlessly access TON Space, thanks to the integration of these services.

Telegram Wallet, known for facilitating cryptocurrency transactions through a chatbot, will serve as the gateway to this innovative self-custodial wallet.

The global rollout of TON Space is scheduled to begin in November, with users outside the United States and select countries gaining access to this groundbreaking technology.

This momentous release marks the culmination of extensive development efforts that originally commenced with Telegram’s ambitious TON project in 2018.

This unveiling comes amidst a shifting regulatory landscape in the United States, where the SEC grapples with the challenge of regulating the growing popularity of cryptocurrencies, exemplified by ongoing legal battles such as Ripple vs. SEC.

Telegram’s Chief Investment Officer, John Hyman shared his perspective on this monumental development, describing it as the “largest Web3/Web2 partnership there has ever been.”

He emphasized that this move empowers users by placing ownership rights firmly in their hands, stating: “Telegram’s mission has always been to enable freedom of speech, but in this digital age, speech encompasses much more. We believe that users have the right to own their identities and assets. With TON Space, users now have the technology to conveniently exercise that right.”

Rema’s “Calm Down” Achieves Milestone as the First Track by an African Artist to Enter Spotify’s Billions Club

Diana Mutheu
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Rema’s “Calm Down” Achieves Milestone as the First Track by an African Artist to Enter Spotify’s Billions Club

Rema, whose real name is Divine Ikubor, has achieved a historic milestone with his song “Calm Down.”

This Nigerian singer’s collaboration with Selena Gomez has become the first track by an African artist to join Spotify‘s exclusive “Billions Club,” amassing over 1 billion streams on the platform.

In addition, Rema has also solidified his position as one of the top 10 most-streamed Afrobeats artists on Spotify.

In 2022 alone, Afrobeats, featuring talents like Burna Boy and Ayra Starr, garnered an impressive 13 billion streams on the platform.

Rema’s journey to this achievement began when he released “Calm Down” on February 11, 2022, as part of his debut studio album, “Raves and Roses.”

The song soared through European charts, claiming the number-one spot on the Belgian Ultratop 50, Dutch Top 40, and Dutch Single Top 100.

In the United Kingdom, it reached a peak position of number three and maintained a presence in the top ten of the UK Singles Chart for twenty-seven non-consecutive weeks.

Adding to the song’s success, Rema collaborated with American singer Selena Gomez to create a remix of “Calm Down,” which was released on August 25, 2022.

This remix achieved remarkable chart success, securing the top position on both the Billboard US Afrobeats Songs and the Billboard Global Excl. US charts. It also climbed to the third spot on the Global 200 chart.

In the United States, the remix peaked at number three on the prestigious Billboard Hot 100, marking Rema’s debut in the top-ten category and Gomez’s ninth entry.

Notably, the remix maintained its dominance on the U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart for an astounding 45 consecutive weeks.

Within the United States, it also claimed the number one position on charts like Pop Airplay, Adult Pop Airplay, and Radio Songs, spanning across all genres.

This achievement marked Rema’s first-ever number-one hit on each of these charts and Gomez’s first number-one on the latter two charts.

Moreover, the remix ascended to the top spot on the Canadian Hot 100 chart as of May 13, 2023.

Rema expressed his gratitude, saying, “It’s a blessing. It’s not just a big win for me, my team, and my family; it’s also a big one for the culture. I feel really happy, and I’m proud of the fans as well for going back to the song and putting people onto the song. Shout-out to the DJs and everyone who made this possible.”

Spotify’s Artist and Label Partnerships Manager for West Africa,
Victor Okpala praised this milestone, stating, “This milestone is remarkable for Rema, marking a pivotal moment for this talented artist and the entire Afrobeats community. It’s clear that the genre is making a significant impact and gaining substantial influence on the global music stage, and we are excited to continue supporting it at Spotify.”

In a recent triumph, Rema clinched the inaugural Best Afrobeats award at the 2023 MTV VMAs, surpassing industry heavyweights like Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy.

This prestigious accolade was awarded at the ceremony held at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, USA.

For those curious to experience the magic of “Calm Down” by Rema and Selena Gomez, the song is available for streaming on Spotify.

Recently, Spotify also introduced a dynamic playlist called “daylist” designed to adapt to users’ changing moods and activities throughout the day.

This personalized playlist not only considers your usual music preferences but also takes into account the specific times and days you listen to music.

It curates tracks from niche genres and microgenres, constantly refreshing them as the day progresses.

Each update comes with a new playful title, such as “happy dance” or “bedroom pop banger,” making it a highly personalized way to discover music that suits your taste.

You can save the current playlist version, but Spotify won’t preserve previous iterations.

Currently, the daylist is available to both Free and Premium subscribers in select regions, including the US, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland. You can access it on desktop or mobile via the Made for You hub.

WhatsApp Rolls-out Channels Globally

Diana Mutheu
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WhatsApp Rolls-out Channels Globally

WhatsApp has rolled out a global expansion of WhatsApp Channels, spanning more than 150 countries, providing users with a discreet means to stay informed about the topics that interest them. 

This groundbreaking feature enables individuals to follow a diverse range of organizations, sports teams, artists and influential figures, all within the confines of the WhatsApp platform.

For those unacquainted with WhatsApp Channels, its primary objective is to establish the most secure broadcasting service available. 

“Channels operate independently of your regular chats, ensuring that your list of followed entities remains confidential, concealed from other followers,” WhatsApp noted in a blog post. 

Moreover, WhatsApp announced it is committed to safeguarding the personal information of both channel administrators and followers.

The firm noted that the initial foray into ten countries garnered considerable positive feedback, fueling its expansion of Channels on a global scale. 

As the firm extends this innovative feature worldwide, it is introducing several enhancements to elevate your experience:

  1. Enhanced Directory: Navigating Channels is now more effortless than ever. The directory has been revamped to automatically filter channels based on your country. Additionally, you can explore newly added channels, those that are the most active, and those with the highest number of followers.
  2. Reactions: Express your sentiments through emojis and gauge the collective sentiment with a tally of total reactions. Rest assured, your reactions will remain private and concealed from fellow followers.
  3. Editing: Soon, channel administrators will gain the ability to make modifications to their updates for a generous 30-day period, after which they will be automatically purged from our servers.
  4. Forwarding: When forwarding updates to chats or groups, recipients will receive a convenient link back to the originating channel, allowing them to explore further.

“This is just the outset of our journey, and we remain committed to enhancing WhatsApp Channels based on the invaluable feedback we receive from our users. Over the forthcoming months, we will also empower individuals to create their channels,” the firm announced.

For those eager to stay abreast of the firm’s latest product developments directly from them, they have also inaugurated the official WhatsApp Channel. 

This channel will serve as your source for timely updates on WhatsApp ongoing projects and innovations.

OPPO Reno10 Series 5G Sets A New Benchmark For Professional Smartphone Portrait Photography

James Musoba
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0
OPPO Reno10 Series 5G Sets A New Benchmark For Professional Smartphone Portrait Photography

OPPO Reno10 Series 5G is setting a new benchmark for professional smartphone portrait photography with its state of the art camera system.

The OPPO Reno 10 5G comes with a large 64MP 1/2-inch sensor on its Main Camera, a 32MP Telephoto Portrait Camera and an 8MP IMX355 112° ultra-wide camera. For captivating selfies, the devices have a 32MP ultra-clear camera while the OPPO Reno10 Pro 5G comes with a triple camera setup, a 50MP ultra-clear main camera, industry-first 32MP telephoto portrait camera with 2X optical zoom, and the 8MP ultra wide-angle camera, offering a 112° field of view. For the front camera, the Reno10 Pro features a 32MP selfie camera supporting autofocus delivering detailed self-portraits in any lighting condition.

According to Fredrique Achieng PR Manager OPPO Kenya,“Through never-ending exploration of what makes a good image, and constant benchmarking of its technology against professional camera standards, OPPO continues to evolve its camera offerings to create the most professional experience on a smartphone.”

“This has given OPPO the opportunity to analyze what separates a contemporary Instagram-worthy photo from a true masterpiece that transcends both time and cultures. On the latest Reno10 series, OPPO continues to narrow the gap between smartphone cameras and high-end DSLRs with end-to-end improvements that put professional masterpieces in the hands of everyone,” she added.

OPPO has also uncovered a series of insights that have led to the creation of its own timeless photography aesthetic — one which revolves around capturing the true relationship between light and shadow to the same standard as a professional camera.

This aesthetic takes on a new form with the latest OPPO Reno10 series.

Setting a new standard for professional portrait photography on smartphone

The rapid increase in available computational power on smartphones in recent years has led many smartphone brands to introduce so-called image ‘optimization’ or ‘beautification’ effects designed to help make the subject stand out by boosting their brightness and reducing brightness in the background. Although this aggressive computational approach can create brighter, more eye-catching images that suit today’s mainstream aesthetics, any detailed inspection of these images makes it clear that they are far from photographic masterpieces.

In order to create timeless masterpieces not bound to one particular style or era, OPPO started by trying to answer the question of how computational photography can work to help users capture the beauty of the real world. Looking back over the evolution of photography, OPPO found that this desire to capture the beauty of the real world is an innate human instinct that has remained true regardless of how camera technology has developed. Likewise, traditional photography has always been appealing and admired as a creative pursuit despite such big advances in digital photography. Although traditional photography requires the use of complicated equipment and a considerable amount of training and experience, the art form still appeals to many people who are willing to spend hours in the darkroom or in front of an SLR to capture real life beauty in their photos. The time and effort spent by these people gives them a deep understanding of photography and aesthetics — knowledge and experience that OPPO believes is exactly what today’s computational photography needs. Its aim is to combine this knowledge with smart computational photography techniques to build an imaging system capable of reproducing the ultra-realistic interconnection between light and shadow, space, and true-to-life colors.

With a team of over 1,000 dedicated imaging specialists and an annual investment of more than US$156 million (approximately 22 Billion Ksh), OPPO is sparing no effort when images with clear details, natural colors, and ultra-realistic light and shadow effects.

Putting professional masterpieces in the hands of everyone

As part of its ongoing commitment to creating a professional and inclusive portrait shooting experience on the Reno series, OPPO is introducing a new long-term project starting with the Reno10 series. This Portrait Expert Project will draw on the expertise of a global Portrait Expert Group of professional portrait photographers and take inspiration from their mastery of light and their multi-cultural perspectives to continuously optimize the underlying portrait technologies of the Reno series.

To champion this project OPPO Kenya has launched #100FacesofKenya campaign to celebrate the beauty of the country and encourage creators to capture and share their inspiring stories in exceptional ways, igniting a creative spark.

The challenge will start on 14th September and will end on 30th September 2023. To participate fans can;

  1. Take a stunning and creative portrait of either a person or animal in a nature-based background.
  2. Post it on your page with the hashtag#100FacesOfKenya and #OPPOReno10series5G and tag @oppo_kenya
  3. Stand a chance to win amazing gifts with OPPO Kenya.

Andrew Kibe’s YouTube Channel Ban: A Call for Responsible Content

Vanessa Waithera
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Andrew Kibe’s YouTube Channel Ban: A Call for Responsible Content

Andrew Kibe, a prominent YouTuber known for his controversial content, recently found himself in hot water as his YouTube channel, boasting nearly 500,000 subscribers and 160 million views, was terminated.

While some may argue that this move is an infringement on freedom of expression, there are compelling reasons to support YouTube’s decision to block his channel. First and foremost, it’s essential to address the ambiguity surrounding the exact reasons for Kibe’s channel termination. YouTube has a clear policy in place, and channels are terminated after a careful review process. The platform typically sends an email to the account holder explaining the reason for termination. Kibe’s reluctance to publicly share the stated reason raises questions about his transparency and accountability as a content creator.

Kibe’s content has always been known for its provocative and polarizing nature, often stirring controversy and dividing public opinion. While freedom of speech is a fundamental right, it comes with responsibilities. Content creators, especially those with a massive following like Kibe, have a duty to ensure their content doesn’t promote hate speech, discrimination, or misinformation. YouTube, as a platform, has a responsibility to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all its users, and this includes cracking down on channels that violate its policies.

Kibe’s case is not an isolated incident in the world of Kenyan YouTubers.

The comedian Flaqo faced a similar ban but successfully went through YouTube’s appeal process and had his channel reinstated. This suggests that YouTube is not out to stifle voices or creativity but to hold creators accountable for their content. It’s crucial to understand that being banned from a platform like YouTube doesn’t mean the end of a creator’s career; it can serve as a learning experience and an opportunity for growth.

Moreover, the fact that Kenya has only about 14 channels with more than 1 million subscribers implies that Kibe’s channel has significant influence in the country. With such influence comes an even greater responsibility to ensure that the content being disseminated is ethical, accurate, and aligns with community guidelines. YouTube’s decision to ban Kibe’s channel sends a clear message that popularity and subscribers do not excuse the violation of content policies.

Kibe’s decision to create a new YouTube channel, which has already garnered over 12,000 subscribers, demonstrates his determination to continue his content creation journey. However, this fresh start should be an opportunity for him to reassess his approach and create content that is both engaging and responsible.

In conclusion, the termination of Andrew Kibe’s YouTube channel should not be viewed solely as an act of censorship but as a call for accountability in content creation.

While freedom of expression is vital, it should not be an excuse to disseminate harmful or divisive content. YouTube, as a platform, has the right and the obligation to enforce its policies to ensure a safe and respectful community for all users. Kibe’s ban should serve as a reminder to content creators everywhere that with great influence comes even greater responsibility, and the key to success lies in producing content that enriches, educates, and inspires without causing harm.

Shop with crypto at Crypto Luxury Store

James Musoba
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Shop with crypto at Crypto Luxury Store

Shop with crypto at Crypto Luxury Store (https://crypto-luxury.shop)

Introduction:

In today’s digital age, online shopping has become the new norm.

With advancements in technology and the rise of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, consumers now have the opportunity to shop conveniently using virtual currencies.

One such platform that embraces the world of crypto is Crypto Luxury Store, where you can indulge in a luxurious shopping experience like never before.

From high-end clothing and shoes to state-of-the-art laptops and smartphones, from exquisite jewelry to fashionable sunglasses,

this store offers a wide range of luxury items that can be conveniently purchased using your favorite crypto.

Convenience and Security:

Crypto Luxury Store provides an unparalleled level of convenience for shoppers.

Now, you don’t need to worry about carrying cash or credit cards.

By using cryptocurrencies, you can make secure transactions without the need for traditional monetary instruments.

This ensures greater privacy and reduces the risk of identity theft, making it a safe and secure way to shop.

Variety and Quality:

When it comes to luxury items, variety and quality are paramount.

Crypto Luxury Store caters to the modern-day consumer who seeks the finest products.

Whether you’re looking for trendy designer clothing or the latest smartphone model, this store has it all.

With a vast selection of high-end brands, you can be assured of finding the perfect item that suits your personal style and preferences.

Seamless Integration:

The integration of cryptocurrencies into the online shopping experience has been seamlessly implemented by Crypto Luxury Store.

With user-friendly interfaces and intuitive browsing options, customers can effortlessly navigate through the store and find exactly what they are looking for.

Additionally, the store accepts a wide range of cryptocurrencies, making it accessible to shoppers worldwide.

Transparency and Traceability:

One of the key advantages of using cryptocurrencies for shopping is the transparency and traceability they offer.

Each transaction made at Crypto Luxury Store is recorded on a blockchain, providing an immutable ledger of all purchases.

This transparency ensures accountability and builds trust between the store and its customers.

Embracing Innovation:

Crypto Luxury Store represents a shift towards embracing the innovative potential of cryptocurrencies.

By offering a platform where customers can buy luxury items with crypto, the store is at the forefront of this emerging trend.

It not only caters to tech-savvy individuals but also opens doors for those who want to explore the world of cryptocurrencies and experience the benefits they bring.

Conclusion:

Thanks to Crypto Luxury Store, shopping with crypto has never been easier.

From the convenience and security it offers to the variety and quality of its products, this store provides a seamless and enjoyable shopping experience.

By embracing cryptocurrencies, it demonstrates a commitment to innovation and technology.

So why wait? Visit Crypto Luxury Store at “https://crypto-luxury.shop” today and indulge in a luxurious shopping experience like no other.

How to Register as a Person with a Disability (PWD)

Yvone Kendi
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How to Register as a Person with a Disability (PWD)

In-Person Submission

Obtain the necessary paperwork

  • Get a medical report from any government-recognized hospitals first to confirm the person’s impairment or disabilities. The purpose of the report is to determine the kind, degree, and primary cause of the disability. A person with a disability is, by definition, a person who has a physical, sensory, mental, or other impairment, such as any visual, hearing, learning, or bodily incapacity, that has a negative influence on participation in social, economic, or environmental spheres.
  • After being given new citizenship status in Kenya, those with disabilities above the age of 18 need get a certificate of good behaviour.

Application forms are available at the Sub-County Gender & Social Development Offices.

  • To submit an application, go to the Gender & Social Development Offices in the sub county. People who meet the criteria for a PWD are registered at the sub county level.
  • You will receive an Individual Registration Form from the Sub-County Gender & Social Development Officer (SCGSDO). Form for individual registration
  • You must fill out the form and give it to the Sub-county Gender & Social Development Officer (SC GSDO) together with the medical report and any necessary documentation.

These documents consist of:

  1. Medical Assessment report from the Government Gazetted Hospitals
  2. Copy of Passport/ ID card
  3.  Copy of Birth Certificate
  4. Proof of lawful residence in Kenya
  5.  Copy of parent’s/legal guardian certificate of registration
  6. Certificate of good conduct for children above 18 Years
  7.  A copy of the certificate of police clearance
  • The Sub-County Gender & Social Development Officer (SCGSDO) then completes registration. SCGSDOs then send the registration forms to the council.
  • Registration details are available on the day of application.

To Apply Online:

First, submit an online application.

  • In the Government of Kenya Single Sign On portal, create a login account.portal eFNS
  • You can access the eFNS site by logging in using the account you generated above.
  • After logging in, click the “Apply now” link on the eFNS page.
  • Select the Application by Persons with Disability tab by clicking the “Submit Applications” option.
  • Verify if you possess the necessary documentation by:
  1. Copy of Passport
  2.  Copy of Birth Certificate
  3. Proof of lawful residence in Kenya
  4.  Copy of parent’s/legal guardian certificate of registration
  5. Medical certificate on disability
  6.  Certificate of good conduct for children above 18 Years
  7. Applicants must ensure that they are lawfully present in the country as they wait for application to be finalized
  8.  Copy of the Police Clearance Certificate
  • Before applying, make sure you have the necessary paperwork or prerequisites and that you meet the requirements. To apply, click the “Apply Now” button on your right.
  • Complete the essential fields, then upload your passport photo and police clearance document. The “continue” option must be clicked in order to print your application.
  • Then, print your completed application and deliver it to the Kenyan missions abroad or the immigration department offices in Kenya.
  • To complete an application, go to an immigration office or a Kenyan mission abroad.

You must visit an immigration office in Nairobi, Mombasa, or Kisumu, or a Kenyan mission abroad, after printing the application and invoice, to pick them up and submit them for processing.

The following paperwork needs to be sent to the offices.

  • A printed online application form 12 (Print the form after completing your application)
  • Copy of Passport
  • Copy of Birth Certificate
  • Proof of lawful residence in Kenya
  • Copy of parent’s/legal guardian certificate of registration
  • Medical certificate on disability
  • Certificate of good conduct for children above 18 Years
  • Applicants must ensure that they are lawfully present in the country as they wait for application to be finalized
  • Copy of the Police Clearance Certificate

You will receive your PWD information right away after submitting your registration application.

Essential Documents

  1. One passport sized photo
  2. Medical Assessment report from the Government Gazetted Hospitals
  3. Duly filled individual registration form
  4. A printed online application form 12 (Print the form after completing your application)
  5. Copy of Passport
  6. Copy of Birth Certificate
  7. Proof of lawful residence in Kenya
  8. Copy of parent’s/legal guardian certificate of registration
  9. Certificate of good conduct for children above 18 Years
  10. Copy of the Police Clearance Certificate

How to request an endorsement on a passport that is not Kenyan

Yvone Kendi
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How to request an endorsement on a passport that is not Kenyan

A dual citizen is obliged by law to apply for an endorsement declaring their Kenyan citizenship on their passport from any other nation they have citizenship in.

Apply online

  • By clicking on the following link, eFNS Online Platform, you can register with the Kenya electronic Foreign Nationals Services (eFNS) site.
  • To register, select Create an Account, then Create an Account.
  • To create an eFNS account, you must fill out your personal information. You’ll need your national ID number if you’re a Kenyan citizen, and your foreigner certificate if you’re a foreigner living in Kenya. Select other and register using the information from your passport if you don’t have a national ID or a foreigner certificate.
  • After registering, you must log in to your eFNS account and select Submit new applications from the Submit application option.
  • You should then choose your next option on the following page, which will be shown by this. Select the Endorsement Tab and select the Apply Now link under the Citizenship Service Section.
  • This will take you to the next page, where you should carefully read the instructions, confirm that you meet all of the prerequisites to apply, and then click the Apply Now button to access the online application form.
  • Complete the online application form with the necessary information, and upload any supporting files.

These details include:-

  • Upload your passport photo
  •  Full names
  • Foreign Address (For those currently not living in Kenya)
  •  Postal and Physical Address in Kenya
  •  Place and date of birth
  •  Upload birth certificate
  •  Nature of citizenship (birth, registration, naturalisation)
  • Other citizenship
  • . Nature of other citizenship (birth, registration, naturalisation)
  •  Passport ( number, place of issue , date of issue ,
  • A police clearance certificate should be uploaded before selecting Save Application Details.

If you have any other passports, you can add them for endorsement; otherwise, click “Continue” to proceed.

You will be taken to the following page, where you can print your application and deliver it for processing to the Immigration Headquarters Offices in Nairobi’s Nyayo House or their regional offices.

Your passport will be endorsed by the immigration officer after you have submitted the application and paid the Ksh 500 application cost.

Normally, the process takes 5 days from the day that the application is submitted to the immigration authorities.

vivo Launches Y36 Smartphone in Kenya

Val Lukhanyu
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0
vivo Launches Y36 Smartphone in Kenya

Global technology giant vivo has unveiled its latest offering, the vivo Y36 smartphone. With a striking combination of style, performance, and affordability, the Y36 is poised to become the go-to choice for Kenyan consumers.

Priced at an attractive 31,999 Kenyan Shillings, the vivo Y36 boasts a Premium Crystal Glass back that not only adds a touch of elegance but also provides a luxurious feel. The Ripple Process creates an alluring ripple effect on the glass back, offering a visual experience like no other. The 2.5D Flat Frame seamlessly integrates the display and body, enhancing the overall premium look, while the Fantasy Frame adds a playful and unique element to the design.

James Irungu, Brand and Communications Manager at vivo Kenya, emphasized the Y36’s significance in the Kenyan market, saying, “The vivo Y36 is a statement of our commitment to meeting the dynamic needs of Kenyan consumers. In a market where style and substance matter, the Y36 effortlessly combines both, offering a smartphone experience like no other.”

At its core, the Y36 features groundbreaking 44W FlashCharge technology, revolutionizing how Kenyans recharge their phones. This feature enables users to quickly and efficiently recharge their devices, reducing downtime and increasing productivity. Coupled with a robust 5000 mAh battery, the Y36 guarantees extended usage times without constant recharging, providing a seamless and efficient mobile experience.

Performance is a top priority for the Y36, with its advanced 8 GB + 8 GB Extended RAM, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon® 680 Mobile Platform. This combination ensures a smooth and uninterrupted user experience, perfect for multitasking, gaming, and launching apps.

Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the Y36’s exceptional camera system, featuring a remarkable 50 MP HD Main Camera, a 2 MP Bokeh Camera for stunning portrait shots, and a 2 MP Super Macro Camera for exploring intricate details. Selfie aficionados can capture crystal-clear self-portraits with the Y36’s 16 MP HD Front Portrait Camera. Additionally, the Y36 offers a unique Double Exposure feature for artistic photography.

Beyond its style and performance, the vivo Y36 is designed to be a versatile companion for all seasons. Its premium build ensures durability and protection, while the seamless frame enhances the device’s overall aesthetic appeal.

The vivo Y36 smartphone is now available at the competitive price of 31,999 Kenyan Shillings, offering Kenyan consumers unbeatable value for a device that combines style and innovation.

8 Ways to Improve Your Website Ranking

Vanessa Waithera
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8 Ways to Improve Your Website Ranking

With so many websites out there today, making yours stand out from the rest can be quite challenging but there’s no need to fret! There are several things you can do to improve your website’s ranking. Today, we’ll learn some of the best tips and tricks to help you skyrocket your website to the top of the search results!

How to Improve Your Website Ranking

1. Searching for Top Underperforming Keywords

Identify the keywords that your website is ranking for but not performing well. To find top underperforming keywords, you can use SEO research or audit tools such as SEMrush, Ahrefs, HubSpot, Screaming Frog, or DYNO Mapper. These tools can automatically run performance tests on all your site-mapped URLs and find those that are driving below-average organic traffic or conversion metrics. You can also use Google Search Console to find out what pages and queries are ranking near the top and need a little push. Once you have identified these keywords, you can then optimise your content to rank higher for them.

2. Improving Your Website Loading Speeds

Improving your website’s loading speed is crucial for cementing a good user experience on your visitors which helps improve your website’s ranking. Google usually ranks pages according to how fast they load therefore putting faster ones at the top of search results. You can use tools like PageSpeed Insights to check your website’s loading speed and identify areas for improvement.

3. Creating Linkable Assets

Linkable assets are high-quality pieces of content that can attract backlinks or social shares because they include certain elements that people can refer to or feel are worth sharing and linking back to. Creating high-quality content helps increase the number of backlinks to your website, which is an important factor in improving your rankings.

4. Optimising Your Content Accordingly

Optimising your content for user intent is crucial to ensure that your website ranks higher on search engines. This can be done by reviewing your old content and updating it to match your user’s intent. This will help improve the relevance of your content and increase its visibility in search results.

5. Creating Site Links

Sitelinks are additional links that appear under the main URL in search engine results pages (SERPs). These links provide users with quick access to other pages on your website. You can use Google Search Console to create site links for your website.

6. Using the Broken Link Method

The broken link method, also known as broken link building, is a link-building strategy that involves finding broken links on other websites and replacing them with working links to your website. It is more common for webmasters to replace broken links with working links than to remove them altogether.

7. Categorising Your Content into Different Formats

Categorising your content into different formats can help you create a more engaging and diverse content strategy. When categorising your content, it’s important to consider your audience’s preferences and the goals of your content strategy. Categorise your existing content into different formats like videos, infographics, or podcasts to reach a wider audience. You can also use tools like BuzzSumo to see what types of content are resonating with your audience.

8. Improving the Time Visitors Spend on Your Website

Dwell time is the name given to the amount of time a user spends on a page before returning to the search results page. Dwell time is highly influenced by your website’s design, the quality of the content available, and loading speeds. Having too many pop-ups on your website can also discourage visitors from staying longer, causing them to angrily leave with hardly any interactions with your website.

Optimisation is an Ongoing Process

Although some of these practices might take time and effort to implement, it is worth noting that they are extremely useful as they ensure that your website is visible to more people and that you are getting plenty of traffic as you desire. Remember, search engine optimization is an ongoing process, so keep working at it and you’ll see results in no time!

Tech Bosses Zuckerberg and Musk Embrace Traditional Office Culture

Vanessa Waithera
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0
Tech Bosses Zuckerberg and Musk Embrace Traditional Office Culture

In recent developments, two renowned tech leaders, Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk, have been fervently endorsing a return to the conventional office environment for their staff.

Their rationale revolves around the potential advantages this shift could bring to both their companies and the professional growth of their employees. In stark contrast to the remote work trend that gained traction in recent years, the CEOs of Meta and Tesla are championing the idea that face-to-face collaboration and workplace interactions hold profound benefits.

The onset of the pandemic led to a seismic shift in the corporate landscape, compelling many companies to embrace remote work as a necessity. However, even as the world started its journey back to normalcy, firms like Meta continued to champion remote work options for their employees. In a notable 2021 internal memo, Mark Zuckerberg granted all full-time employees the option to work remotely. During that period, he asserted, “We’ve discovered in the past year that meaningful work can be conducted from any location, and I am even more optimistic about the potential of widespread remote work.”

Nevertheless, as the corporate climate evolved from uncertainty to a more stabilized phase, Mark Zuckerberg made an about-face on the remote work policy, now requiring employees to return to the office.

Meta recently introduced a new mandate stipulating that all employees must spend at least three days per week in the office. This decision had been foreshadowed in a March announcement by CEO Mark Zuckerberg, citing internal performance data that suggested engineers who worked and interacted in the office exhibited higher levels of productivity.

Zuckerberg remarked in an email

“Our initial analysis of performance data indicates that engineers who either began their journey with Meta in person and then transitioned to remote work or remained on-site generally outperformed those who exclusively joined remotely. This analysis also demonstrates that engineers in the early stages of their careers tend to perform better when they collaborate in person with their colleagues for a minimum of three days a week. While this warrants further examination, our hypothesis is that fostering trust in personal relationships enhances our overall effectiveness.”

In contrast, Elon Musk has consistently been an outspoken critic of remote work.

During an interview with CNBC, he strongly condemned it as “morally wrong” and dismissed it as “nonsense.” Musk, who banned remote work at Tesla following the company’s acquisition, has never hesitated to express his disdain for remote work policies. In this particular interview, he emphatically asserted that remote work does not benefit employees.

“I firmly believe that people are more productive when they are physically present,” he declared to CNBC.

“Let’s drop the self-righteousness surrounding the work-from-home issue because they are telling everyone else not to work from home while they do it themselves,” he added.

Elon Musk reinforced his stance by arguing that since individuals delivering essential services like food and construction workers cannot work remotely, neither should office employees. He referred to the decision as “problematic” and a “moral concern.”

Significantly, in June 2022, Tesla CEO Elon Musk implemented a stringent return-to-office policy for all Tesla employees, with a stern warning that non-compliance would result in termination. Musk mandated that all employees spend a minimum of 40 hours per week in the office, deeming anything less “inadequate.” This policy represented a stark departure from Tesla’s previous approach to remote work, which had been more lenient. Before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous Tesla employees enjoyed the option to work remotely on a regular basis. However, Musk has since emerged as a vocal critic of remote work, contending that it does not foster productivity or innovation.

OPPO launches the Reno10 5G and Reno10 Pro 5G  smartphones in Kenya

Milcah Lukhanyu
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0
OPPO launches the Reno10 5G and Reno10 Pro 5G  smartphones in Kenya

OPPO, a global smart devices brand, has announced  its newest additions to its Reno series in Kenya with its  first-ever telephoto portrait camera.

 Reno10 Pro 5G and Reno10 5G are both presented in ultra-slim body, big battery and Battery Health Engine (BHE) for durable battery life span, SUPERVOOCTM for fast charging, and the Dynamic Computing Engine that keeps the phone running smoothly for as long as 4 years.

Market availability

OPPO Reno10 Pro 5G and the Reno10 5G will be available for purchase across all OPPO stores country wide and our e-commerce partners such as Jumia, Killimal from 6th August at Recommended Retail Price of Ksh 56,999 RRP for the Reno10 5G and Ksh 69,999 for the Reno10 Pro 5G.

According to the company, for the month of September, customers who buy any OPPO Reno10 series will get gift box.

Reno10 5G
Just as the Reno10 Pro 5G, the Reno10 5G features an ultra-slim body in two stunning colors; Ice Blue and Silvery Grey With a 93% screen-to-body ration, the device will give users a beautiful viewing experience with its 120Hz 6.7” inch AMOLED display.  

For enhanced portrait experience, the device comes with a feature a large 64MP 1/2-inch sensor on its Main Camera, a 32MP IMX709 Telephoto Portrait Camera and an 8MP IMX355 112° ultra-wide camera. For captivating selfies, the devices have a 32MP ultra-clear camera. 

The Reno10 is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7050 SoC that promising fast and reliable performance to its users. On battery performance, the Reno10 packs a 5000mAh battery, with 67W SUPERVOOCTM charging to 100% in just 47 minutes.  

With the additional support from OPPO’s exclusive Battery Health Engine, the effective battery lifespan of both the Reno10 Pro 5G and the Reno10 5G can be extended to as many as 1,600 charge and discharge cycles compared to 800 charge and discharge cycles and therefore ensures a long phone life.

With an impressive configuration, the Reno10 Pro 5Gfeatures 12GB of RAM and 256GB of ROM as well as Reno10 comes with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of ROM. Moreover, the device supports OPPO’s innovative RAM Expansion technology, which virtually converts unused ROM space into up to an additional 12GB and 8GB of RAM for enhanced performance.

Thanks to all these optimizations, the Reno10 Pro 5G and Reno10 5G are able to provide all-round optimal smoothness for up to four years. The Reno10 Pro 5G has also received an A rating in the TÜV SÜD 48-Month Fluency Certification.

Reno10 Pro 5G
The Reno10 Pro 5G, is sleek and compact design, featuring a 120Hz 6.7” OLED 3D curved screen and comes in two sleek colors Glossy Purple and Silvery Grey colours. Boosting of a 93% screen-to-body ratio the OPPO Reno10 Pro seeks to give users a borderless viewing experience.

Being the portrait expert, OPPO Reno10 Pro 5G comes with a triple camera setup, a 50MP IMX890 ultra-clear main camera, industry-first 32MP IMX709 RGBW telephoto portrait camera with 2X optical zoom, and the 8MP IMX355 ultra wide-angle camera, offering a 112° field of view. For the front camera, the Reno10 Pro features a 32MP IMX709 RGBW selfie camera supporting autofocus delivering detailed self-portraits in any lighting condition.

Providing core performance on the Reno10 Pro 5G is the Snapdragon® 778G 5G platform, built on the 6nm process to balance powerful performance with efficient power consumption. Together with the upgraded Ultra- Conductive Cooling System, the Reno10 Pro 5G can comfortably run various applications without sacrificing comfort or performance.

The Reno10 Pro packs a 4600mAh battery with 80W SUPERVOOCTM that is able to charge to 100% within 28 minutes; and a quick 5-minute charge offers 3.2 hours of video streaming. With these users are assured to stay connected and engaged without worrying about running out of battery.

Seamless Connectivity and High Efficiency in ColorOS 13.1

Bringing all these great features together in a smart and convenient interface is the updated ColorOS 13.1 on the Reno10 series. Through Multi-Screen Connect, users can connect Reno10 series smartphones to a PC for seamless work across multiple devices. Once connected, users can directly open, edit, copy, or paste files on the phone using a computer, or transfer files like images, music, videos, and more between both devices without using any mobile data. Notifications on the phone can be displayed on the computer in real-time, while camera and screenshot features can work simultaneously on both devices. Up to two phone applications can also be run simultaneously on a connected computer, making it a breeze to work across more than one smartphone app at the same time. With such seamless connection between multiple devices, working and enjoying entertainment across two screens becomes second nature.

TJNA, AU commence validation of the anti-IFFs policy tracker toolkit

Milcah Lukhanyu
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TJNA, AU commence validation of the anti-IFFs policy tracker toolkit

Tax Justice Network Africa (TJNA) in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC), Department for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, and Industry, have commenced the validation of its anti-Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs) policy tracker tool.  

The Tax Justice Network Africa (TJNA) is a pan-African organisation and a member of the Global Alliance for Tax Justice. Launched in January 2007 during the World Social Forum held in Nairobi, TJNA promotes socially just, accountable and progressive taxation systems in Africa. It advocates for tax policies with pro-poor outcomes and tax systems that curb public resource leakages and enhance domestic resource mobilisation.

Francis Kairu, Policy Officer at TJNA notes that having an anti-IFFs policy tracker tool is paramount for African countries as it empowers governments to effectively monitor and combat illicit financial flows, safeguarding their economies, promoting transparency, and ensuring that valuable resources are channelled towards sustainable development and the welfare of their citizens. 

“This validation is a representation of the steps that TJNA is taking towards rolling out the policy tracker tool in Africa. It will play a pivotal role in curbing the flow of illicit funds, ensuring that African nations can harness their resources for sustainable development and inclusive growth by closely monitoring the implementation of national-level policies, “ noted Francis. 

The policy tracker, developed by TJNA, draws upon the recommendations of various reports that have extensively documented procedures required to combat IFFs, including the High-Level Panel on Illicit Financial Flows from Africa (commonly known as the Mbeki Panel report) and recent reports like the High-Level Panel on International Financial Accountability and Transparency (FACTI Panel). 

As outlined in the 2020 Economic Development in Africa Report published by the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Africa experiences an annual loss of approximately US$88.6 billion, equivalent to 3.7 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP), due to illicit financial flows. Moreover, the FACTI Panel’s February 2021 report highlights the impact of IFFs on sustainable development, depleting vital resources for sustainable growth. 

This validation meeting aims to ensure that the tracker tool meets the criteria and helps African countries to influence policy decisions, inform financial governance, and, ultimately, contribute to economic growth, social development, and financial stability across Africa and beyond.  

Key stakeholders in the field of taxation, pan-African institutions working on illicit financial flows, experts from the AU Member States, TJNA network members, policymakers and civil society organisations will be present to further, refine and propose viable recommendations to strengthen the methodology and tool for the anti-IFFs tracker.  

The key objectives of the validation meeting are:   

  • Reviewing of parameters for alignment of national and regional policies with the anti-IFFs tracker tool;  
  • Reviewing the policy indicators to measure the success in implementing the tool and strategy at national, regional and continental levels.  
  • Scrutinise the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the data collected by the policy tracker tool.  
  • Strategise how best to integrate the tool into national and continental policies, and enforcement mechanisms.  
  • Development of clear roadmap with timeframes for undertaking alignment at national and regional levels.  

Procedures for driving cars with foreign license plates are outlined by KRA and NTSA.

Yvone Kendi
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Procedures for driving cars with foreign license plates are outlined by KRA and NTSA.

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), in partnership with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), alerts owners of foreign private motor vehicles operating in Kenya to the following requirements for application of Temporary importation of Road Vehicles and Foreign Permits authorization effective December 15, 2017. These requirements are outlined in the East African Community Customs Management Regulation (EACCMR) 2010, (Regulations 136 and 137) and the Traffic Act, Rule 7A (3).

The temporary importation of road vehicles form (Form C32), which is issued at the border station, is required before the foreign operator from an East African Community (EAC) or Common Market for East and Southern Africa (COMESA) country can receive entrance authorisation.

In order to receive a Form C32, a person MUST:

  • Possess foreign identification and be foreign 
  • if you are a Kenyan, have a current work permit or proof of residency.
  • be listed in the foreign motor vehicle registration book.
  • if the driver is an agent of the owner, possess a current Power of Attorney or permission to operate the vehicle from the Motor Vehicle Owner.
  • A diplomat’s ongoing diplomatic status must be attested to. Also required is evidence that the person holds a diplomatic position, such as a legitimate diplomatic identification.

Anyone from the EAC or COMESA who lacks these documents will not be given a Form C32 or permitted to drive a foreign-registered car locally; additionally, any such car driven without the aforementioned documentation will be seized.

A valid International Circulation Permit from Country of Origin (Carnet de Passage en Douane) or Pass Sheet issued by their Country of Origin is required before a foreign operator from a country outside the EAC or COMESA countries may receive entry approval. It it be possible to utilize this Carnet de Passages en Douane in Kenya. Additionally, he/she MUST offer the following:

  • Foreign identification
  • Proof of residency in the foreign country, if Kenyan.
  • Have the foreign Motor Vehicle Registration Book in his/her name.
  • Have a valid Power of Attorney or authorization to operate the vehicle from the Motor Vehicle Owner, in case the operator is an agent of the owner.

A foreign-registered motor vehicle cannot be entered by a person without these documents, and any such vehicle that is operated without them will be seized.

An operator of a foreign motor vehicle must submit an application for a foreign motor vehicle permit in addition to having a Form C32 or an International Circulation Permit from Country of Origin (Carnet de Passage en Douane).

In order to apply for a foreign permission, a person will need:

  • A valid Form C32 or an endorsed valid International Circulation Permit from Country of Origin (Carnet de Passage en Douane)
  • COMESA Certificate of Insurance
  • An online account on eCitizen which will be used to make the application.

The initial application for the Foreign Permit will be done upon entry into the country and will be issued based on the following categories: –

  • A paid up foreign permit, valid for a month, will be issued to vehicles on tour in Kenya with an International Circulation Permit from Country of Origin (Carnet de passage en douane).
  • Only vehicles entering Kenya with a Form C32 will receive a free temporary permit valid for fourteen days at the entry ports.

Without a Form C32, Carnet de Passage, and Foreign Permit in the owner’s possession, no vehicle will be permitted to leave a Customs Border Station.

The applicant may ask the Regional Offices of the Customs and Border Control Department, Enforcement Division for an extension of their Form C32 and Foreign Permit after the fourteen days or granted term have passed. Form C32 and foreign permits cannot be extended unless the customs officer physically inspects the vehicle and is satisfied that a valid explanation has been provided for the extension.

How to Take a Chromebook Screenshot

Yvone Kendi
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How to Take a Chromebook Screenshot

There aren’t as many alternatives for third-party screenshot apps on Chromebooks as there are on Windows or macOS because they are internet-based laptops. Although there are many Chrome extensions available, using ChromeOS’ built-in features is the easiest way to record what is on your screen. Here’s how it functions.

Utilize the keyboard shortcut to take a screenshot.

  • Press Shift + Ctrl + Show (the latter looks like a rectangle next to two vertical lines).
  • Press Shift + Ctrl + F5 if you’re using an external keyboard without a Show button.
  • Select Screenshot from the option at the bottom of the display.
  • Pick between taking a window screenshot, a partial screenshot, or a full-screen screenshot.

Use Quick Settings’ Screen Capture Tool.

  • On the bottom right of the screen, select Quick Settings.
  • Select Screen Capture.
  • Make sure the object you want to capture is actually on your screen.
  • Select whether to capture your entire screen, a single window, or a portion of it.
  • You can decide to record part or all of your screen as well.
  • Tap Capture.

Where to Find Chromebook Screenshots

Screenshots are automatically copied to your Clipboard and appear in Tote, rolled out with Chrome OS 89 to keep important files at your fingertips. Open Tote from the Shelf to access recent downloads, screen captures, and pinned files.

Visit your Downloads folder if you want to store anything for later and aren’t in a rush. Press Shift + Ctrl + Show > Settings > Select folder and select the location you would like screenshots to be saved. This is where future screenshots will be submitted.

Given the limited hard drive capacity on Chromebooks, you might want to think about backing up pictures to Google Drive, where they are available on all devices.

5 Reliable Strategies to Reduce Gmail Storage

Yvone Kendi
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5 Reliable Strategies to Reduce Gmail Storage

Have you ever struggled to control your Google or Gmail account’s overflowing storage? Your storage can soon fill up with all the crucial emails, attachments, and spam messages.

Learn how to effectively clean up your Gmail and make more space for the things that matter most.

Note: Before implementing any of the following methods, it’s crucial to back up any important emails or attachments to an external storage device or another email platform to ensure you don’t lose any valuable information.

Delete Any Unneeded Emails

The first step is to go through your inbox and remove any emails that are no longer necessary. This may contain newsletters, stale chats, or promotional communications. Ask yourself, “Do I really need this email?” and be brutal in your approach. If the answer is no, it’s time to bid farewell.

Delete Attachments

Utilizing Gmail’s search operators, start by locating emails that include huge attachments. To locate emails with attachments greater than 5 megabytes, combine the “has:attachment” operator with a file size qualifier, such as “larger:5MB.” Once you have a list of emails with large attachments, you can decide which ones you no longer need.

Consider downloading and storing the attachments to your computer or cloud storage before you decide to delete the entire email. In this manner, the storage demands on your Gmail account are lessened yet you may still access the attachments if necessary. Once the attachments have been saved, delete the email and observe as your storage space progressively increases.

Make Use of Archiving’s Power

A great approach to clear out your inbox without losing crucial emails is by archiving your emails. In order to make an email easily searchable and available whenever you need it, you can archive it. This removes the email from your inbox and stores it in the “All Mail” section.

Start archiving emails that you’ve already dealt with or that don’t need immediate attention rather than keeping them all in your inbox. 

Make use of the “Storage Management” tool.

Gmail offers a useful “Storage Management” function that enables you to locate and handle the emails that use up the most storage space, making it simpler to focus on areas where storage space may be freed up. Follow these procedures to access this tool:

  • Sign into Google One
  • Activate the “Storage” tab.
  • Free up account Storage can be found when you scroll down.
  • Select the button next to the information about storage consumption.
  • With the help of several categories like “Large Attachments” and “Spam,” Gmail will evaluate your storage and help you find and remove emails that aren’t necessary.

When it comes to effectively managing your Gmail storage and making the most of the space that is available, this application is a game-changer.

Clean up your spam and trash folders.

Last but not least, remember to routinely empty your spam and trash folders. Spam and deleted emails continue to use storage space until they are fully deleted from your account.

You’ll not only free up storage by routinely cleaning your trash and spam folders, but you’ll also improve the functionality of your Gmail account. It’s a quick and easy approach to maintain a clean inbox.

You can clean up your workspace, make the most of your inbox, and optimize your storage by putting these five tried-and-true techniques into practice.

Volkswagen ID. GTI electric car to come with engine noises and gas-powered drive experience

Dennis Mathu
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Volkswagen ID. GTI electric car to come with engine noises and gas-powered drive experience

In response to enthusiasts’ complaints about the absence of driving sensation in electric vehicles (EVs), Volkswagen introduced fully adjustable driving profiles via the GTI Experience Control system in the ID. GTI Concept, as well as false engine sounds.

Despite the breakthrough developments of electric vehicles, some drivers still frown upon them due to the lack of visceral sensation that regular gas-powered vehicles provide. Volkswagen intended to bridge this gap with its ID. GTI Concept’s GTI Experience Control system. This system was created to provide the electric vehicle a driving experience similar to the classic ’76 Golf GTI.

“We want to make it agile, really direct and so you can feel the road with the damper settings. It’ll be fast but smooth and it’ll need more power than the ID.2 All,” said Gruenitz R&D boss. It will be matched with an electronic differential to boost handling.

Gruenitz said that the production ID. GTI would not include the fake gear shifts that other automakers have used in their performance EVs, such as Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N. Instead, Volkswagen will concentrate on other aspects of the model’s driving experience, such as lowering the center of gravity and reducing the weight of the battery pack.

As of this writing, no performance numbers had been provided. However, as the VW R&D boss noted, the ID. GTI should have more oomph than the 223 horsepower of the ID.2, on which it is based. The EV will be a front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicle, similar to the well-known VW Golf.

It will be a while before the performance EV hits the roads. The production version of the VW ID. GTI is slated to debut in the next three years.

Ford and Apple team up to bring Maps EV routing to the F 150 Lightning

Dennis Mathu
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Ford and Apple team up to bring Maps EV routing to the F 150 Lightning

Drivers of the Ford F-150 Lightning electric truck will soon be able to use Apple Maps to navigate and receive suggestions on where to charge along the way.

The CarsDirect crew discovered the function in a Ford dealer message sent out this week, which stated that all Lightning owners would have access to it, however it requires Apple iOS 15.4 or newer and Ford Power-Up 6.3.0 or higher.

As Ford explained: “Apple Maps will use your iPhone to read vehicle and battery data when connected to CarPlay and assist you on your journey by adding chargers into your trip as necessary.”

The Apple Maps EV feature isn’t new to Ford EVs, but it is new to the F 150 Lightning . It was released last spring for the Ford Mustang Mach-E, and it covered all 2022 and 2023 models, as well as some models dating back to the 2021 model year, depending on the software version of the Sync 4A infotainment system.

Google incorporated electric-car chargers to its navigation system for the first time in 2018, although they were largely merely points of interest at the time. It only announced a higher level of data on charging stations earlier this year, allowing some EVs with Google Automotive built-in system to access their state-of-charge and range estimates, and thus similar dynamic navigation with charging stops.

Government to Begin Implementation of Digital ID Program

Diana Mutheu
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Government to Begin Implementation of Digital ID Program

The Kenyan government is embarking on a significant initiative, allocating a budget of Sh1 billion to introduce digital identification cards to its citizens.

The initiative, known as the Unique Personal Identifier (UPI), will be christened the “Maisha Number,” serving as a lifelong and exclusive identification number assigned to individuals right from birth and eventually becoming their primary identification credential.

The Permanent Secretary of Immigration, Julius Bitok shared insights into the government’s plans for this groundbreaking transition.

He emphasized the importance of providing Kenyans with ample time to adjust to the new digital IDs.

“We will establish a clear timeline to facilitate a smooth transition,” he affirmed.

Initially, there will be a transition period spanning two to three years to enable Kenyans to migrate seamlessly to the Maisha Number system.

Mr Bitok further elaborated that individuals applying for IDs upon reaching the mandatory age of eighteen and those seeking replacements will be issued the Maisha Card starting at the end of the current month.

The registration process for the Unique Personal Identifier is scheduled to commence on September 29, 2023. Simultaneously, the government will begin phasing out the existing second-generation ID cards.

Regarding the replacement process, Mr Bitok revealed, “For those requiring replacements, approximately 1.5 million replacement cards are issued annually. These replacements will now be in the form of the Maisha Card. Furthermore, for new registrations, we anticipate approximately 1.5 million individuals coming of age from the end of this month, and they will be issued the Maisha Card.”

While digital identification systems are relatively uncommon in Kenya, they have gained traction globally.

Estonia, in particular, has successfully implemented digital IDs, with a staggering 98% of its population using the system.

This global trend towards digital IDs was highlighted at a recent G20 meeting, where Europe showed increasing interest in such systems.

Ursula von der Leyen, the head of the European Union, urged world leaders to adopt digital IDs worldwide by 2030, signalling a potential shift towards this innovative form of identification on a global scale.

Tesla and its suppliers to invest $15 billion in new Gigafactory

Dennis Mathu
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Tesla and its suppliers to invest $15 billion in new Gigafactory

According to Reuters, a Mexican state governor has stated that Tesla and its suppliers will invest $15 billion in the Nuevo Leon gigafactory over the next two years. This is nearly triple the amount originally announced by the Mexican government.

“Just Tesla and its suppliers will generate an investment of $15B in two years,” said Nuevo Leon Governor Samuel Garcia at an event, adding that this “enormous amount” will necessitate increased state spending on roads and other public works.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk revealed in March that the company intends to build a gigafactory in northern Nuevo Leon state as part of the electric automaker’s global expansion efforts. Musk did not disclose exact information regarding Tesla’s investment at the time, but Mexican officials stated that the factory would require around $5 billion.

While Tesla has not specified a timeline for building of the gigafactory, sources previously told Reuters that production may begin in 2025.

Tesla’s endeavor is the biggest recent investment in the Latin American electric vehicle market. However, other automakers, including BMW, GM, and Ford, have declared plans to increase EV production in Mexico as well.

Presidential Digital Talent Programme Opens Applications for 2023/24 Cohort

Diana Mutheu
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Presidential Digital Talent Programme Opens Applications for 2023/24 Cohort

The Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) Authority has announced the commencement of the application process for the Presidential Digital Talent Programme (Digitalent) for the 2023/24 academic , marking the eighth cohort of this transformative initiative.

With a total of 400 slots available, the programme’s primary objective is to empower and prepare recent ICT and engineering graduates with practical ICT skills that will enhance their employability and entrepreneurial prospects.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the ICT Authority, Stanley Kamanguya underscored the program’s importance, stating, “Through the Presidential Digital Talent Internship Program (PDTP), the Government of Kenya continues to cultivate a highly skilled ICT workforce for the industry.”

Aligned with one of the key pillars of the Kenya National Digital Master Plan (2022-2032), which centers on Digital Skills, the initiative plays a pivotal role in realizing the vision of a Digital Economy, as envisioned in the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

Digital Skills are considered essential prerequisites for harnessing the benefits of technology across all sectors of the economy and at all levels of the skills spectrum.

These skills will enable every Kenyan to engage with digital technology, fostering digital literacy and promoting active participation in the digital economy.

The Digital Skills Pillar of the program is dedicated to fostering the necessary competencies and expertise needed to thrive in the Digital Economy.

Additionally, interns also gain valuable non-digital skills, including critical thinking and entrepreneurial acumen, while those with innovative ideas further deepen their knowledge in ICT innovation.

As of now, the program has successfully trained over 2,000 interns, many of whom have seamlessly integrated into various sectors of the economy, making a significant contribution to Kenya’s technological advancement.

CS Owalo implicates data commissioner in Worldcoin controversy

Diana Mutheu
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0
CS Owalo implicates data commissioner in Worldcoin controversy

Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) faced criticism for its oversight of Worldcoin‘s activities in the country, as revealed by ICT and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary, Eliud Owalo during his testimony in Parliament.

CS Owalo expressed his concern that the data commissioner did not conduct proper due diligence when registering Worldcoin, a foreign company that commenced operations in Kenya in 2021.

He pointed out that the commissioner ignored significant warning signs regarding the company, even though they had recommended its suspension.

While addressing the National Assembly Ad-hoc Committee on Worldcoin, the CS distanced his ministry from the actions of the data commissioner, emphasizing its independent role.

He highlighted an ODPC directive from June 23, which called for Worldcoin to cease collecting sensitive personal data from Kenyans, and questioned why the same firm was later registered despite not addressing the ODPC’s concerns.

In addition to the collection of sensitive personal data, the ODPC had raised issues about consent for transferring personal data and the firm’s submitted impact assessment report. The ODPC also questioned the legal basis for Worldcoin’s operations in the country.

Despite these concerns, the ODPC registered Tools for Humanity (Germany) on September 15 of the previous year. Certificates of registration were also issued to Tools for Humanity USA on April 18, both valid for two years.

CS Owalo argued that the ODPC had overlooked clear concerns that should have halted the controversial activities, which are now the subject of inquiry by a parliamentary committee.

Owalo pointed out the contradiction in the ODPC’s actions, noting that despite directing Worldcoin to suspend its operations in Kenya in June 2022 due to noncompliance with the Data Protection Act (2019) and an unsatisfactory Data Protection Impact Assessment, the ODPC proceeded to register Worldcoin as a Data Controller in 2023, even with the cessation order still in effect.

During the committee session, the CS was questioned about his earlier statements regarding Worldcoin’s operations being voluntary and legal in Kenya.

In response, he clarified that while the firm was duly registered, the certificate of registration did not grant permission to disregard sectoral regulations.

He emphasized that registration did not exempt the company from adhering to operational regulations.

CS Owalo also disclosed that a working group on sectoral reforms had been established to review the policy, legal, and regulatory framework in its entirety, to recommend necessary reforms to address gaps and align with emerging realities.

Ministry of ICT launches a task force mandated to lead policy, legal and legislative reforms in the country

Diana Mutheu
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Ministry of ICT launches a task force mandated to lead policy, legal and legislative reforms in the country

The Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) and the Digital Economy, Eliud Owalo, has recently established a task force responsible for spearheading policy, legal, and legislative reforms in the country. 

This team has been entrusted with the crucial task of reviewing and offering recommendations for necessary changes in the laws governing broadcasting, courier services, and telecommunications.

Considering that some of these laws were enacted more than 25 years ago, there is an urgent need for them to adapt to the rapidly evolving digital landscape. 

Despite previous amendments, the Cabinet Secretary acknowledges that there is still much work to be done.

During the inauguration of the task force, CS Owalo highlighted the need for reforms in response to significant technological advancements. 

He pointed out that the existing legal framework lacks specific regulations for emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), cryptocurrencies, and other digital assets

.

The emergence of these new technologies presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly in the realm of cybercrimes. To address these issues, the Ministry is also working on amending the Cybercrimes Act of 2018.

Key Responsibilities of the ICT Sector Working Group The ICT Sector Working Group, chaired by ICT expert Prof Timothy Mwololo Waema from the University of Nairobi, has the following key responsibilities:

  1. Review existing policy, legislative, institutional, administrative, and operational structures and recommend comprehensive reforms within the sector.
  2. Identify emerging technologies and areas requiring legal and policy interventions, proposing relevant policy and legislative changes.
  3. Provide assessments and advice on necessary reforms to help the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy meet its present objectives in a rapidly changing operational environment.
  4. Draft relevant bills, policies, and strategy documents to facilitate these reforms.

CS Owalo also emphasized the importance of integrating these reforms to eliminate redundancies and reduce role duplication.

Members of the ICT Sectoral Reforms Working Group The ICT Sectoral Reforms Working Group, chaired by Prof Timothy Mwololo Waema, includes members such as Ms Phyllis Migwi, responsible for ICT sectoral reforms, and Dr Hanningtone Joel Gaya, responsible for Broadcasting and Telecommunications sectoral reforms. 

The group is given six months to fulfill its mandate, with the possibility of an extension if required.

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