NCBA Plants 10,000 Trees In Nakuru County To Mark World Environment Day

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June 5, 2024

NCBA has today partnered with Baboon Project Kenya for a tree planting drive across Nakuru.

The initiative is part of NCBA’s commitment to environmental sustainability including combating climate change, enhance biodiversity, and restore natural landscapes in Kenya and in line with this year`s World Environment Day theme: Focusing on land restoration, desertification and drought resilience.

The Baboon Project Kenya is a conservation initiative that was established in 2021 in Nakuru Kenya and in collaboration with Kenya Forest Service.The initiative in partnership for the Green School Program is designed to conserve the environment in line with the Climate Change Act,2016 (No. 11 of 2016), with particular emphasis on schools and communities around them.

The program focuses on tree planting to increase students’ awareness of the importance of trees and promote tree planting.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Baboon Project Kenya on this significant tree-planting initiative. I’m particularly inspired by the enthusiasm and participation of our young people. Their commitment to growing and nurturing these trees reflects a profound sense of responsibility and demonstrates the role they can play in protecting our planet. Through the planting of these 10,000 tree seedlings, we aim to make a tangible contribution to Kenya’s natural heritage and sow the seeds of a sustainable and resilient future for generations to come. We look forward to having this initiative across at least 50 schools in Nakuru County and thereafter to scale it up to other schools across the country” Said Mr. John Gachora, Group Managing Director, NCBA.

The Tree Planting and growing campaign is among the 15 ambitious sustainability commitments NCBA pledged under it`s Change The Story platform to execute in collaboration with strategic partners, including the Government and the Private sector.

“We are honored to have made this strategic partnership with NCBA, with whom we share the commitment to conserve the environment by planting trees. Tree planting is not just about adding greenery to our landscapes, it’s about sowing the seeds of hope for future generations. Each tree we plant today stands as a testament to our commitment to environmental stewardship, a promise to nurture and protect our planet.” Said Simon Gichohi – Founder, Baboon Project Kenya

Through strategic partnerships and community engagement, NCBA has committed to grow 10 million trees by 2030. The Bank also aims to foster a culture of conservation and environmental responsibility that will benefit future generations. Other partners present at the tree planting activities are Kenya Forest Service, Ushiriki Wema Foundation, WWF Kenya, Boreka Group and Ahadi Kenya.

“I truly commend Baboon Project Kenya for their efforts in conservancy and community involvement in environment protection. This grassroots education is vital in creating a generation that values and actively participates in preserving our natural resources. Your commitment to this cause is truly inspiring and essential for fostering a sustainable future.” Said Dr. Stanley Kamau, Executive Director Ahadi Kenya Trust.

During the tree planting event, NCBA Bank Group Managing Director Mr. John Gachora pledged Ksh. 500,000 for renovation of classrooms and kitchen facilities in the school in support of Ahadi Trust CEO, Dr. Stanley Kamau plan to upgrade the facilities to improve the learning experience for the students.

Two Suspected Drug Traffickers Arrested With 16 Bales Of Bhang

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John Mutiso

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June 5, 2024

Two suspects of trafficking in narcotics were early this morning ejected from a Nairobi-bound matatu from Busia at the Kangemi flyover.

The two, Samuel Okello and Antony Omingo, had 16 bales of bhang stashed in their travel bags seized.

According to DCI, the arrest followed a #FichuakwaDCI tip from members of the public, indicating presence of the illicit cargo at the Trippin Shuttle Sacco matatu they were traveling in.

Okello and Omingo have been handed over to Anti-Narcotics detectives based at DCI headquarters for further processing.

Man run over, killed after falling from moving vehicle

By

John Mutiso

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June 5, 2024

Traffic police in Makadara are looking into an unfortunate case where a 26-year-old man was yesterday ran over by a matatu after alighting while the vehicle was in motion, suffering fatal injuries.

According to DCI, the incident that occurred at 8am along Muthurwa Road involved a Mistubishi FH belonging to Forward Sacco registration number KCK 040Q and the deceased passenger, Samuel Ndungu.

In the report booked at the Makadara Station, the victim is said to have fallen on the hard surface before the rear wheels ran him over, killing him instantly.

“With sadness on the loss of such a youthful soul and many others that have gone down the same way, the DCI appeals to our dear citizens using public transport means to always exercise patience while boarding and alighting from matatus, doing so only when the vehicles are stationary and at safe picking and drop-off points,” the DCI said.

Equally, drivers and touts are called upon to be mindful of and patient with their customers, by allowing them enough time to safely board and alight at designated points to avoid such accidents.

Evans in talks with Man Utd over new deal

By

John Mutiso

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June 5, 2024

Manchester United are in talks with defender Jonny Evans over extending his stay at the club.

The 36-year-old returned to United last summer from Leicester City, eight years after his initial departure from Old Trafford.

The Northern Ireland international initially started training with the club during pre-season to maintain his fitness but was handed a one-year deal after impressing Erik ten Hag.

Evans went on to make 30 appearances last season, including a substitute appearance in the FA Cup win against Manchester City at Wembley.

The club have also confirmed they remain in conversations with goalkeeper Tom Heaton over a new deal, while a contract has been offered to Omari Forson.

Forson, 19, was handed his Premier League debut in February’s 4-3 win against Wolves, when he provided the assist for Kobbie Mainoo’s winner at Molineux.

The London-born forward made six further appearances but he is yet to be persuaded to sign a new deal at the club.

Brandon Williams, Anthony Martial and Raphael Varane will all be released on 30 June, when their deals expire.

Williams spent last season on loan at Ipswich but hasn’t played since 29 December because of an injury, which saw him return to United.

The defender’s last appearance for United came in September 2022.

Premier League financial charges ‘frustrating’ – Man City chairman

By

John Mutiso

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June 5, 2024

Manchester City chairman Khaldoon al-Mubarak says he is “frustrated” at the club’s on-pitch achievements being accompanied by repeated reminders of the 115 Premier League charges lodged against them.

Last month City became the first club in English football history to win the league title in four consecutive seasons.

But in autumn a Premier League disciplinary commission is set to hear the case against City for allegedly breaching its financial regulations, some of which date back to 2009.

City deny all the charges – but recently manager Pep Guardiola admitted “he did not know” if people liked his team.

“Of course, it’s frustrating,” Khaldoon told City’s internal media in his annual end of season address. “The referencing is always frustrating.

“I feel for our fanbase and everyone associated with the club to have these charges constantly referenced.

“It’s taking longer than anyone hoped for but there is a process we have to go through. I’ve always repeated, let’s be judged by the facts and not by claims and counterclaims.”

BBC Sport understands Khaldoon gave the interview before stories emerged on Tuesday around City’s legal challenge to the Premier League’s commercial rules.

An arbitration hearing surrounding the legality of the league’s associated party transaction (APT) rules, which determine whether sponsorship deals are financially ‘fair’, has been set for 10-21 June.

Khaldoon was asked about the likely impact of financial regulations on this summer’s transfer window given different competitions have different rules. His answer was given without the knowledge City’s present stance would be made public.

“The Premier League got to where it is today by being the most competitive league,” he said. “So, I hope there is a bit more sensibility in regulating. A balanced approach is good from all the leagues.

“There have been a lot of restrictions put in place on swaps and loans, so even that is now much more restricted. That is going to be reflected, I believe, this summer.”

Guardiola has won 15 trophies at the club since his appointment in 2016.

The 53-year-old has one year to run on his current deal, which he signed in November 2022.

The former Barcelona boss suggested after his side’s Premier League title success in May that he could leave the club in 2025, when his contract expires.

“Pep has always been fully committed to this club and to every contract he has signed with us,” said Al-Mubarak.

“This decision on his future is always a decision we take together and I have no doubt we will find the right solution that works for Pep and works for us.”

Police Launches Manhunt for Four Men Accused of Game Hunting in Garissa

By

John Mutiso

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June 5, 2024

Police in Daadab’s Dagahaley area of Garissa County are pursuing four men who wrestled a giraffe last evening before killing it for game meat.

According to DCI, swiftly acting on information shared by residents at Kumahumato village, officers from Dagahale Police Station rushed to the scene, intercepting a Toyota Alto Reg.No. KCT 727T overloaded with the animal meat just as it struggled to rev up.

“On sighting the police cruiser, the four game hunters scampered into nearby thickets, holing up like warthogs to evade arrest,” the DCI said.

Their abandoned vehicle was towed to the police station and KWS officers informed.

With the car detained, the meat has also been preserved as exhibit.

Meanwhile, a report from NTSA records pointing to the owner of the vehicle has been obtained, and necessary actions are underway.

South African Rand Falls On Uncertainty As ANC Coalition Talks Get Underway

By

John Mutiso

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June 5, 2024

The South African rand fell on Tuesday as uncertainty around possible coalition partners persisted, a week after an election which saw the African National Congress lose its parliamentary majority for the first time in 30 years.

At 14.14 GMT, the rand traded at 18.6475 against the dollar, about 0.7% weaker than its closing level on Monday.

The dollar last traded around 0.21% stronger against a basket of global currencies.

“While we are seeing some strength returning to the dollar in a risk off start to the day, the rand has underperformed a broad basket of its currency peers, suggesting continued angst with regards to coalition uncertainties which persists,” said Shaun Murison, a senior market analyst at IG.

The ANC was holding high-stakes internal talks on Tuesday about which parties it should approach to form South Africa’s next government, with diametrically opposed Marxists and free-marketeers on the menu of options.

Political parties have two weeks to work out a deal before the new parliament sits and chooses a president, still likely to be ANC leader Cyril Ramaphosa since the party remains the biggest force.

“The rand today is erring on the side of caution, pricing in some of the economic risks a business unfriendly coalition may provide,” Murison added.

South Africa’s economy recorded a small contraction in the first quarter of 2024, statistics agency data showed on Tuesday, hurt by a slump in the mining and construction sectors.

Murison said the GDP data release had little impact on the local currency.

Shares on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange reversed some gains made on Monday, with the blue-chip Top-40 (.JTOPI) index about 1% weaker on the day.

South Africa’s benchmark 2030 government bond was marginally stronger, with the yield down 0.5 basis point to 10.57%.

Lionel Messi launches his own hydration drink called Mas+

By

John Mutiso

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June 5, 2024

Lionel Messi has a new venture off the field. On Tuesday, the Argentine soccer icon announced the release of his new sports drink: Más+ by Messi.

According to a press release, Messi claims he would struggle to find the proper product to hydrate him on the field, so he sought to create his own drink to provide the perfect balance between function and flavor. Messi adds that he believes hydration should be a focus for any consumer, not just those playing sports.

“Hydration is essential to overall wellbeing,” Messi said in the release. “I believe everyone deserves a drink with amazing ingredients and taste.”

The result is Más+, a beverage containing a blend of electrolytes, vitamins, and natural flavors with no artificial flavors or sweeteners. Each 16.9-ounce bottle contains 10 calories and 1 gram of cane sugar.

The drink will be available in four flavors — Miami Punch, Orange d’Or, Berry Copa Crush, and Limón Lime League — each representing a milestone in Messi’s life and career. According to the release, the name Màs+ (meaning “more” in Spanish) signifies how Messi chooses to live his life every day, always finding more to give.

The energy and sports-drink market is rapidly becoming a crowded space. Even though this product is backed by a world-famous athlete, it still joins a competitive field, and it’s already facing some backlash for its familiar branding.

This launch is another step into the non-alcoholic market for Mark Anthony Brands, which entered the category with White Claw 0% in December 2023.

On June 13, a limited supply of Más+ will drop in a local store in Miami — where Messi currently resides — for an exclusive group of lucky fans.

After this debut, individual bottles and Commemorative Special Edition Variety Packs (containing two 16.9-ounce bottles of all four flavors) will be available online in the U.S. starting June 14.

In July, new variety packs with 12-ounce cans of all four flavors will be available nationwide.

Kanye West accuses former assistant of blackmail

By

John Mutiso

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June 5, 2024

Kanye West says he will counter-sue his former assistant, after she filed court documents accusing him of sexual harassment and breach of contract.

In her lawsuit, Lauren Pisciotta alleged the star sent her vulgar texts and performed sex acts while on the phone with her.

West’s legal representative has now called those accusations “baseless” and accused Pisciotta of engaging in “blackmail and extortion” after the star rejected her sexual advances.

“In response to these baseless allegations, Ye will be filing a lawsuit against Ms. Pisciotta,” they added, using the rapper’s current preferred name.

Lauren Pisciotta / Instagram Lauren Pisciotta — Lauren Pisciotta says she had 15 years experience in the music industry before working with West

Pisciotta is believed to have worked for West from 2021 to 2022, initially on his fashion line before becoming his personal assistant on a salary of $1m (£780,000) per year.

She has alleged that, during her employment, the star bombarded her with explicit text, some of which included pornographic videos.

Pisciotta also claimed that he masturbated while talking to her on the phone and that, on one occasion, pleasured himself in front of her after “trapping” her in a private room on his plane.

In her lawsuit, the former OnlyFans model said she was abruptly fired in 2022, and never received her promised severance package.

West’s lawyer challenged the story, saying that Pisciotta “was terminated for being unqualified” and “demanding unreasonable sums of money”, including an annual salary of $4m (£3.13m).

They also accused Pisciotta of “lascivious, unhinged conduct”, claiming that she “consistently used sexual coercion” to demand money and material items, including designer handbags and a Lamborghini car.

The statement further alleged that, after West rejected her advances, Pisciotta attempted to blackmail him for $60m (£47m).

The BBC contacted Ms Pisciotta to request a response, but she did not immediately respond.

On Tuesday, she posted a message to her Instagram story that read: “Your soul becomes aligned with freedom when you allow others the liberty to dislike you, judge you and disagree with you.”

Amanda Knox reconvicted in slander case

By

John Mutiso

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June 5, 2024

A court in Florence has reconvicted Amanda Knox for slander, years after she was acquitted of murdering her British roommate Meredith Kercher in 2007.

Knox will not go to prison as she has already served four years for the murder, for which she was originally convicted.

At the time she was also convicted of slander for blaming the murder on local bar owner Patrick Lumumba during police interrogation, but that conviction was quashed last year and a retrial ordered.

Knox’s lawyers have said they expect to appeal against the latest verdict.

They added that Amanda was disappointed as she was hoping to finally clear her name after years of legal battles.

She told the court on Wednesday that police had coerced her into implicating Mr Lumumba.

“The police threatened me with 30 years in prison, an officer slapped me three times saying ‘Remember, remember’,” Knox, 36, said.

“I’m very sorry that I wasn’t strong enough to withstand the pressure from the police,” she added, speaking in Italian.

“I never wanted to slander Patrick. He was my friend, he took care of me and consoled me for the loss of my friend (Meredith). I’m sorry I wasn’t able to resist the pressure and that he suffered.”

Mr Lumumba was not in court.

The hearing was held behind closed doors, and audio and video recording was prohibited.

Knox was famously tried, convicted and later acquitted for the murder of 21-year-old student Ms Kercher, originally from south London.

Knox and Ms Kercher were both language exchange students sharing a house in the university town of Perugia in 2007.

Ms Kercher, 21, was found dead in their house. Her throat had been cut and she had been sexually assaulted.