Celebrating the Kenyan Story

See You On 24/01/2016

2016-01-12T13:09:00.001+03:00

Belated Black Friday 30% OFF wazomoja

2015-12-01T08:57:00.000+03:00

Get Cosy with WazoMoja

2015-11-13T08:11:00.003+03:00

OVOXO-grade hoodies at wazomoja.com

wazomoja.com got you covered

2015-09-08T05:44:00.000+03:00

www.wazomoja.com got you covered.

Successfully Moved to Wazomoja.com

2015-09-01T17:43:00.000+03:00

Daily Kenya is now Wazomoja.com.

We Are Moving in the Next 3 Hours.

2015-09-01T11:06:00.000+03:00

Hey,

Esteemed readers dailykenya.blogspot.com is moving in the next three hours to a new home. Watch the Space.

Regards,
Daily Kenya Team

Daily Kenya is Rebranding

2015-08-30T06:47:00.000+03:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Daily Kenya is Rebranding

Nairobi - August 30, 2015 ~ We want to thank everyone who has supported the dailykenya.blogspot.com initiative since its inception.

The freebies, donations and coffee tips have helped us run the blog for a good 5 years. After a strong readership and demand from our esteemed clients, we wish to announce that in the next few hours a new platform is set to launch.

www.wazomoja.com

Is Cash on Delivery the recipe for Kenyan business? A MUST READ!

2014-11-15T11:41:00.000+03:00

Cash on delivery is the method of payment that allows customers to purchase products on a company’s website or make orders via phone and pay for them upon delivery on their doorstep or office, this form of business is as old as 1635 in England but in Kenya, it has only began taking shape and could possibly be the recipe of Kenyan businesses.

According to JUMIA, Kenya’s No. 1 online retailer Cash on delivery accounts for over 55% of its transactions in Nairobi and Mombasa, the two cities the company offers the mode of payment. Parinaz Firozi, MD Jumia Kenya says Cash on delivery has helped the company acquire new customers.

“Over 60% of our customer acquisition has been through cash on delivery. There is zero risk for the customer since they only pay for the product if they like it, there are no cost implications if they reject the product, the delivery man just takes it back. Its stress free,” Firozi adds.

In a country where credit card penetration remains a major headache for financial institutions and the government with several flopped initiatives, Mobile money transfer remains the alternative.

“Customers will load their mobile money account and wait until the delivery is made and they are happy with it before transferring the cash on the spot.”

Hellofood an online platform that allows you to order food online and have deliveries made to your doorstep in Kenya also offers cash on delivery .Cathy Mwangi, marketing manager notes it’s easy to use and more credible, “Credit cards can fail especially when customers don’t check their balances regularly leading to cancelled orders. “

Ampire Power solutions, a Powerbanks company with a physical store along Kimathi Street also offers COD. Bob Wanyiri, Group chair says the payment method forms 50% of the business activities in a day.

“We have our store here, a Facebook page and mobile number that our customers use to make orders, mostly in Nairobi. People want you to take the product to them, they want to feel you have earned every dime at their convenience. We make deliveries all day and the conversion is high. It’s good.”

While cash on delivery makes perfect sense for the customer, a lot of logistics and costs are involved especially when delivering expensive products that require insurance and security, a rejection of this nature would mean a two-way massive loss to the seller shipping the product back to the warehouse and back again to the customer and a lot of time wastage. Cases of customers changing their mind are also high since they haven’t paid for the delivery and could easily get another source and that’s not just it consolidating receipts and keeping records is crazy.

Firozi advises that using own riders and delivery vans and making several deliveries along one route is cost effective and time saving and agrees that COD is a real recipe for Kenyan business but should be used with a lot of caution and foresight.

It’s your call now.

FIVE TIPS TO PLANNING A STRESS FREE FAMILY HOLIDAY

2014-10-27T11:28:00.002+03:00

FIVE TIPS TO PLANNING A STRESS FREE FAMILY HOLIDAY:

The best part about travelling with family is that apart from bonding and catching up in a different environment, it’s a superb way to explore the world and open up to learning together. Family holidays also present good opportunities to make decisions where everyone’s opinion is respected. Again, travelling together offers the parents the luxury of having fun without worrying about what could be happening back home! But, as is with many all-inclusive decision-making-model, planning a family vacation can leave one feeling depressed and fatigued to the point that they consider curling back under the duvet and dreaming off to their destination! To avoid such, Jovago.com, a leading online hotel booking site advises parents to plan in time, and resist the temptation of playing Super/man/woman. “Depending on the age of your children, assign duties and involve them in listing activities or places they would like to engage in or go to” Says Lillian Gaitho Head of PR for the Jovago. Involving the whole party allows you to start off on a uniform pace and expectations. Below are a few more tips to consider:

Your Budget vs Your Dream

Holidays and family vacations are known to shoot holes through purses and pockets. This is no fable. You however can avoid falling into the rut race by planning and saving ahead of time, this will allow you enough time to balance your ledger books accordingly. Planning ahead of time will also give you time to ask around for packages and deals. Try a few ideas, consider a few places. Do not skip over a favorite destination because it’s known to be a bit over your budget-who knows you might be lucky to catch them smack on their season discounts, or might have special rates for that particular room. One more important issue, find out what your package offers; are all ‘holiday activities’ covered in the cost? There is no fun in taking kids to a windsurfing location if all they do is watch others have the fun.

Home-and-Away; Hotel Matters

Similar to when travelling alone, but a little more complex; check if the hotel offers baby cots for your 8-month old. Do they have a tuck shop just in case you need extra supplies of milk and diapers? How about laundry? Unless you plan to carry a whole closet, stacking up soiled laundry for a six and four old will not add any refreshing moments on your travel diaries. Another important aspect of your stay is ascertain on whether the hotel has child minders/club who will allow you to shift your eyes to the horizons and sunset without worrying about your tot slipping off the rocks or wading off to test the pool’s deep edge. On the same note, it’s important that the hotel amenities are not strictly kid-focused, but rather friendly and well integrated to accommodate both adults and children. Activities such as surfing, beach volleyball, fishing, kayaking and boat rides will be perfect family activities on a beach resort. Finally, check on forgettable bits such as hotel-destination shuttling service, safety measures for family stays e.g. adjoining doors to double rooms, balconies, corridors etc.

Kilifi Baobab Hotel

A Family that Plans Together…

This could be harder than financing the vacation! And especially if your twelve year old has already sketched bold dotted lines under her/his “entitlements and rights”. You can easily avoid sulking and feuds by involving both your 3 year old and his thirteen old sister in laying out the itinerary. Make sure every member of the family has something to look forward to by letting them chose their favorite activity; that to them will be the highlight of the holiday. Make it the duty of the Owner of Activity to find ways of involving the rest of the team so that every member ends up participating in the other’s most memorable holiday activity. It’s also important that you make the holiday a learning experience for the kids by incorporating either fun school activities or featured topics like climbing a mountain they have been learning about, or taking part in foreign culture they may have studied or will study in feature.

Photo-theguardian.com

Packing for Travel

This may sound easy, until you have to rummage through a Disney-world of toys for the plane tickets at the airport lounge. Be safe and pack separately; older children can share a suitcase while you share your travel case with your spouse and the one looking forward to their 2^nd birthday. It will also be easier to move around for different experiences if the older children carry their own backpacks for personal effects such as water bottles, head phone, cameras, iPad and such. This is also good time to exercise the ideals of Young Responsible Adults you have been instilling in them all along.

Photo by momtastic.com

A final Checklist

Assuming you followed my guideline from the very first para, you must by now be have all your immunization cards stamped, your visa ready and your plane reservation done. But, who knows-counter checking will just add to your confidence and faith in a happy-holiday-ahead! Ensure your travel insurance is comprehensive, that your credit cards have no issue and that your destination accepts your ATM card. Finally, and just for matters of caution ensure that your home is under good watch while away. We do not anticipate a burglary, but neither can we rule out a stray character peeping though your windows, it’s creepy. It’s always good to have a close relation or friend aware of your whereabouts.

Street style: The JUMIA Kenya Street Fashion Festival

2014-10-27T09:17:00.001+03:00

Nairobi, Kenya 24^th October 2014 The Arboretum grounds will play host yet again to the second edition of the JUMIA Kenyastreet fashion festival on the 8^th of November 2014 from 9:30am-7:30pm.

The Street Fashion Festival is the go-to event for fashionistas of all sizes, colour, style and backgrounds, The festival is a platform aimed atshowcasing fashion icons in the making......who probably would ordinarily not get a chance in the spotlight!! This carefully orchestrated festival is the largest in Kenya.

Parinaz Firozi, MD, JUMIA Kenya, “This is event is for designers, stylists, models and others involved in fashion to come showcase their works and build networks in a creative atmosphere.”

Activities at the event will include a Red Carpet Entrance, Photography by Professionals, a Freestyle Runway To Showcase Your Style, Fashion Classes, Fashion Transformation and Exchange, a Chill Lounge With Lots Of Snacks, Drinks, Shisha and Nyama Choma, Graffiti Walls For Lovers Of Art, Super Bikes, Kids Zone And Playing Grounds among others.

Grab your tickets here; https://www.msupa.com/the_street_fashion_festival_II.php#.VEeJuc4xwrc

About JUMIA

JUMIA is Kenya’s leading online shopping destination, allowing customers across the country to shop amongst the widest assortment of high quality products at affordable prices. JUMIA was the first African company to win an award at the World Online Retail Awards 2013 in Paris as the “Best New Retail Launch” of the year.

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Toto Afrika and Pwani Cycling Club

2014-10-24T11:56:00.000+03:00

Talib Kweli Perfoming @ Ebony Lounge this October

2014-10-13T09:43:00.003+03:00

Date: Thursday October 23, 2014

Venue: Ebony Lounge
Time: 8 pm
Tickets: Ksh2000

Guest Artists: Khaligraph and Muthoni DQ
Music by G-Money

2 Chainz in Nairobi for Jamesons Party Live

2014-10-10T13:09:00.004+03:00

Date: Saturday November 1st

Time: At 10 pm.
Venue: The Ngong Racecourse
Tickets: VIP Ksh5000 and Gallery Ksh1500

Classical Dinner Series FT. Mark Obama Ndesandjo

2014-10-10T13:03:00.003+03:00

Date: Saturday 18th October, 2014
Time: from 7:00 pm
Venue: The Intercontinental Hotel, Nairobi

This cabaret event will among other musical pieces, feature a piano performance by Mark Obama Ndesandjo, accompanied by the Nairobi Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of Julia Nankinga Luvai and will be hosted by Michael Oyier.

Mark will also be launching his new book “An Obama’s Journey” accompanied by his wife. Patrons of the Classical Dinner Series will receive complimentary copies of the book and also have an opportunity to meet Mark and get their books autographed by him.

Proceeds will be in aid of the Mark Obama Foundation arts and music project for disadvantaged children in Kenya. To read more about Mark, check out http://www.markobamandesandjo.com/

Grease: Open Air Theatre @ The Elephant

2014-10-10T12:58:00.001+03:00

Date: 16th October 2014
Time: 7- 10pm
Venue: The Elephant
Charges: Ksh1000

AFLEWO 2014 @ Winners' Chapel International

2014-10-10T12:44:00.000+03:00

Date: 24th October 2014

Time: 6pm - 6am

Venue: Winners' Chapel International, Nairobi

Free

Thursday Nite Live Features Amani

2014-10-08T13:39:00.000+03:00

Date: October, 16 2014
Time: From 8-11PM
Venue: Choices – Baricho Road
No Cover Charge

The Safaricom Choir & the Youth Orchestra Public Premier

2014-10-08T13:31:00.001+03:00

Date: Sunday, October 12, 2014
Venue: Safaricom Indoor Arena – Kasarani
Charges: Adults Ksh500 and Children Ksh100

The African Dance Party FT. Wizkid @Carnivore

2014-10-06T10:15:00.000+03:00

Date: 19th October 2014
Venue: Carnivore Grounds
Charges: Advance Ksh1000, General Ksh1,500, Golden Circle Ksh3,000 and VIP Ksh8,000

Jumia Kenya begins operations at new hub in Mombasa

2014-10-04T12:23:00.003+03:00

Nairobi Kenya, 3^rd October 2014- JUMIA Kenya a subsidiary of African Internet Holdings and the leading online retail outlet has commenced operations at its new hub located at Likoni, Mombasa.

The new hub will meet the demands of coastal residents embracing online shopping and provide a significant number of jobs for the area. A similar move expected in other towns in Kenya.

Parinaz Firozi, MD Jumia Kenya said, “We are committed to providing a stress free shopping experience for Kenyans, the new hub is part of our ongoing efforts to enhance service and meet customer demands with speed and efficiency.”

With the hub’s close proximity, the company will now offer free deliveries for products above ksh. 5000 while those below the amount attract a shipping fee of Ksh. 200 within Mombasa. Customers will also have the option to pay cash on delivery for products purchased.

Robinson Murage, Marketing Coordinator said, “Since we allow customers to return or exchange products they have purchased on our website www.jumia.co.ke within 7 days, the challenge has been the time it takes to get a product from Mombasa to Nairobi and back, a challenge the new hub has solved.”

The expansion represents a milestone in the company’s expansion strategy and a significant increase in sales.

About Jumia

JUMIA is Africa’s leading online shopping destination, allowing customers across the continent to shop amongst the widest assortment of high quality products at affordable prices. JUMIA was the first African company to win an award at the World Online Retail Awards 2013 in Paris as the “Best New Retail Launch” of the year.

WHERE ARE THE TOP PLACES TO RETIRE AROUND THE WORLD?

2014-10-04T12:11:00.003+03:00

NAIROBI,SEPTEMBER 26, 2014: With the developments in travel and technology, moving abroad is cheaper and less stressful than ever before. As you near retirement age, have you considered spending your work-free years overseas? With the freedom that comes with retirement, why not spend your time exploring new surroundings and soaking up the sun.

With this question in mind, Lamudi, the global real estate marketplace, has explored the top countries to retire abroad.

Aqaba, Jordan

Spend your retirement in this stunning coastal city, and enjoy the city’s beach resorts, eye-catching architecture, local baths and relaxed vibe. Transport to nearby Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, leave regularly and cost very little, giving you the opportunity to explore the Rose City. Jordan has a strong healthcare system, with physicians proficient in English for those unable to converse in Arabic. The affordable property prices in Aqaba make this an increasingly desirable retirement spot.

Karachi, Pakistan

As Pakistan’s largest and most populated metropolitan city, Karachi may not have previously been on your list of places to consider for retirement. However, taking into account the city’s desirable location on the Arabian Sea coastline, retirees can make the most of both the city life and the beautiful, relaxing beaches, including Hawke’s Bay Beach, and Paradise Point. Additionally, spend your days exploring the many parks, museums and historical buildings that Karachi has to offer. The stunning Hub Lake, a mere 56 kilometers north of the city, is home to incredible wildlife, and offers the opportunity to fish, picnic and swim away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

3. Bunaken Island, Indonesia

Located at the northern tip of the island of Sulawesi, Bunaken is only 8㎢ and is part of Bunaken National Marine Park, which covers an expanse of 890.65㎢. The National Park is renowned for its clear waters, coral, and an amazing range of fish, whilst Bunaken itself is home to an abundance of flora and fauna, boasting over 70 types of coral. Whilst the island is famous for its diving and snorkelling, you can also spend your time fishing, exploring the secluded coves, and enjoying the stunning beaches.

4. Medellín, Colombia

If you want to spend your retirement in a city, Colombia’s Medellín is the place for you. The Wall Street Journal’s Innovative City of the Year 2013 has a lot to offer as a retirement choice. There are an abundance of landmarks to visit, including the stunning Metropolitan Cathedral, and Los Alumbrados, the famous christmas lights that light up the city between December and January. Surrounded by eight smaller towns and with frequent international and domestic flights available, there is plenty of opportunity for weekend trips and longer vacations to explore the surrounding areas. The solid infrastructure and economy, together with reliable Internet to communicate with your family and friends in other locations, makes Colombia a great place to settle down.

5. Nakuru County, Kenya

If you’re looking to spend your retirement in one of the world’s most beautiful locations, choose Nakuru County, in the Southern Rift Valley of Kenya. In the capital, and largest town of Nakuru, you can find the Lake Nakuru National Park, home to thousands of pink flamingos, as well as various other birds and wildlife. Other sites include an extinct volcano, boasting stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Nakuru also has numerous healthcare facilities on offer for its residents, and is well connected to explore the rest of Kenya.

Abidjan, Ivory Coast

Why not retire to the former capital of the Ivory Coast, Abidjan? The country’s largest city is home to both a lively commercial district - the Plateau - and a more traditional, older area - Treichville - both of which boast bars, restaurants and markets, as well as museums, monuments and theaters. The city has a multitude of health centers, pharmacies and specialist clinics to cater to any health needs, whilst real estate prices are reasonable and affordable.

7. Bandarawela, Sri Lanka

Relocate to Bandarawela and spend your Sundays exploring the town’s lively markets. The picturesque town is home to two stunning waterfalls, the Rawana Ella and Diyaluma, as well as tea plantations. Thanks to its beautiful views and cool, calm climate, Bandarawela is the perfect location to relax. Less than 200 kilometers from the capital cities of Colombo and Kandy, Bandarawela is well connected to explore the rest of the Island

Tangier, Morocco

Morocco has many beautiful cities on offer, such as Marrakesh and Casablanca, however with its mixture of old, traditional architecture and new, modern city, Tangier is a great choice for retirement. The low cost of living, together with the agreeable climate, stable government and rich culture, are all prime reasons to relocate to Tangier. Buying or renting property is a simple process in Tangier, with plenty of affordable real estate on offer. What’s more, the quality of medical care is high, and the food is fresh, often organic, and healthy. And if you fancy escaping the city for a break, Spain is just a short ferry ride away.

9. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Follow the winding alleyways, and get lost in the beauty of Zanzibar. If its white sandy beaches, picturesque palm trees and sparkling blue waters don’t make it an ideal location, its tropical forests, mouth-watering cuisine and remote villages certainly do. In addition, property prices and plots of land on the largest of the Spice Islands are affordable, both on the beach and further inland. There is little need for transport on the island, however it is well connected should you want to explore further afield.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Located on the Pacific Ocean’s striking Bahía de Banderas, Puerto Vallarta is a stunning beach resort city. With stretches of white beaches and sparkling water, as well as lush mountains, quaint cobbled streets and chic shops, Vallarta has it all for those looking for a more relaxing way of life. The city brings together the old and the new, combining traditional Mexican crafts, cuisines and architecture with modern restaurants and cafes. What’s more, foreigners are easily able to own real estate with the backing of a local bank, and housing varies from inexpensive and affordable condos on the beach, to the more affluent, luxurious properties, depending on your price range.

ABOUT LAMUDI

Launched in 2013, Lamudi is a global property portal focusing exclusively on emerging markets. The fast-growing platform is currently available in 28 countries in Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America, with more than 600,000 real estate listings across its global network. The leading real estate marketplace offers sellers, buyers, landlords and renters a secure and easy-to-use platform to find or list properties online.

ABOUT AIH

Africa Internet Holding introduces and accelerates the online shift in Africa – for its people and its culture. It is committed to running successful and vibrant internet companies which boost the evolution of African online culture. AIH is the parent group of nine successful and fast-growing companies in more than 20 African countries, accounting for over 3000 staff. AIH cares about entrepreneurship and brings together all the key elements required to build great companies: team, concept, technology and capital. Its network of companies includes JUMIA, Kaymu, Hellofood, Lamudi, Carmudi, Zando, Jovago, Lendico and Easy Taxi.

HipHop HookUp with Abbas Kubaff

2014-10-03T15:07:00.000+03:00

Date: 11th October 2014
Time: 2-7PM
Venue: Sarakasi Dome
Charges: Ksh200

Fatuma Voice: Unchained Voices @ Pawa254

2014-10-03T14:55:00.003+03:00

Date: 4th October 2014
Time: 5pm
Venue: Pawa254
Tax: Ksh100

Blankets & Wine Writers Stage: An Ode to Hip Hop – Mini Tribute to Rapper G-Wiji

2014-10-03T09:32:00.000+03:00

Date: Sunday, October 5, 2014
Venue: Carnivore Grounds
Time: 2-5pm

Theme: An Ode to Hip Hop, Mini Tribute to Rapper and Poet G-wiji

MC: Velma Kiome, General Manager, Kwani Trust

Kenya’s leading online retailer Boosts Local Fashion Designers

2014-10-03T09:27:00.002+03:00

Nairobi Kenya, 1^st October 2014 The willpower to succeed in times of economic struggle is what has driven local fashion designers to sell online. JUMIA, Kenya’s leading online retailer has become the most preferred website for local designers to showcase their fashion brands gathering emerging and established designs into one single platform in what is a Kenya’s first.

Dozens of local brands such as Afro Shoes, RIRI African Designs, Johari Designs, Kazuri Beads and House of Hadassah have added their names to the over 100 brands.

Afro Shoes

“Exposure to an enormous regular shopping crowd, warehousing, marketing, handling of customer queries and delivery is all done for you,” Said Priscila Muigai one of the designers selling online, “and With Jumia taking a 25% commission on sales, the profit margins are high and the experience stress free

RIRI African Designs

Designers selling on the platform do so on consignment, Jumia stores the products for you to allow for the shortest time between click and delivery. Buyers have an array of payment options including cash on delivery, mobile money transfer and credit card, they also get to enjoy a free return and exchange policy of 7 days.

Nicolas Saints, Head of Fashion Jumia, notes that the platform has introduced new brands to customers that were not known before, “Every day we get contacted by new designers who want to list on our website, we are introducing new brands every day.”

The e-commerce company also promotes the brands across their social media accounts to close to 1 Million of its own followers.

Robinson Murage Marketing Coordinator said, “Through our social media accounts and with our other online partners we help to raise awareness of the brands. This boosts their sales.”

He also notes that the website has been ranked among the most visited in Kenya giving designers without funds to run their own stores a place to sell and build a huge following with fashion accounting for at least 30% of the company’s sales.

Murage adds that the number of women fashion designers selling on the platform is outpacing that of menswear designs.

“Online sales cuts many costs. You don’t have the rent, the electricity, the water, the fire or theft risks, the goodwill and the insurances. You can make your designs at home and sell from home” Sofia Zab Marketplace Manager said.

For designers, being paid regularly and taking 75% of the sales contrary to the 50% proceeds from the brick and mortal stores is the new cash cow.

The platform has also attracted household name companies like BATA, S Divayne, and Nairobi sports house among other retail industry players

About JUMIA

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