NIC BANK AWARDS ITS TOP ASSET FINANCE DEALERS AT THE NIC ANNUAL JOHARI AWARDS

Executive director NIC bank Alan Dodd and top sales  overall winner John Ngugi

October 25, 2015…NIC Asset Finance, a subsidiary of listed lender NIC Bank Group, awarded its top performing motor dealers on Friday 23, October at the annual Johari Awards Ceremony.

More than 400 dealers from 46 new motor vehicle & machinery dealerships,   as well as various second hand car dealers in Nairobi converged at Panari Hotel to celebrate this year’s achievement, especially in a competitive volatile environment.

Speaking during the event NIC Bank Executive Director Alan Dodd said the support gained from dealers has enabled the Bank retain its position as the market leader in providing flexible asset financing solutions.

“NIC Bank’s heritage is asset finance and despite many players coming into the market we have continued to be the market leader. As a bank we are working to constantly offer our customers the highest level of business in terms of value through NIC Bank and we appreciate all the dealers, our partners,” said Mr Dodd.

Earlier this year the bank launched NIC Leasing LLP, a new subsidiary offering Operating Leases, to further complement the NIC Bank asset finance offering.

MR John Ngugi of Isuzu- Central Farmers Garage was named this year’s overall winner having supported NIC Bank with the highest value of asset finance business countrywide. 1^st Runners up was Catherine Muthui of General Motors East Africa.

NIC Credit risk director Margaret Kimuma and top sales
used private vehicles winner Angela Wahinya

The dealers are mainly in motor vehicle, machinery and technical equipment financing were drawn from various outlets countrywide dealing with new vehicles and second hand including General Motors, Simba Colt, CMC Motors, DT Dobie, Toyota Kenya, RMA Motors , Porsche, Tata, Isuzu Dealers, Central Farmers Garage (CFG), Transport & Lifting (T&L), Ganatra,  Heavy Vehicles and Plants Suppliers (HPVS) and many more including second hand car dealerships.

“We are committed to provide our customers with innovative asset finance solutions across our branch networks within the region, to expand their businesses or also to improve business performance by acquiring or upgrading their assets. The only security required by the bank for the loan is the asset itself,” said NIC Bank’s Head of Asset Finance Moses Karanu.

LG leading in innovation by realizing Science Fiction (Sci-Fi) predictions

Contrary to the predictions of author Isaac Asimov, the biggest change to life in the 21st century has been the invention and rapid adoption of smartphones and tablets. Predicted by famed inventor Nikola Tesla as far back as 1926, smartphones and tablets have revolutionized the way that we consume media, communicate and even think. 

LG has established itself as a leading innovator by focusing on how past predictions of the future often differ wildly from the technology of the present, we can demonstrate that LG has often surpassed what past visionaries thought possible. LG’s role as an innovation driver in has helped distinguish it from the competition with its futuristic take outs.

Technology is turning this world into a smart place starting with smart phones and tablet PCs which have changed our lives to travel cards people use every day.  LG has taken the lead into turning some of the “Science Fiction” (Sci-Fi) gadgets into a reality.

LG Smart Watch,

Not long ago, wearable computers were confined to the realm of science fiction. However, the rapid progress that LG and other leading tech firms have made in this field has finally made it possible for consumers to experience the next step in technological integration. Unsurprisingly, LG has proven itself to be a consistent innovator in wearable technology, releasing four different smart watch models in less than 12 months. Each model offers users a different wearable technology experience, ranging from the straightforward G Watch to the luxurious, network-connected Watch Urbane LTE which is all user- friendly.

LG WebOS 2.0

LG's award winning Smart TV webOS platform revolutionizes the way you watch and experience entertainment on your TV. Free from the complexities of advanced technology, you can now enjoy Smart TV the way it is supposed to be, simple and intuitive, bringing together some of the best catch-up TV, movies, sport and music services. Whatever you wish to watch, find, launch, or play, you can do it easily with webOS, the efficient and user-friendly OLED Smart TV with a timeless design created with you in mind. Revolutionizing the way you experience entertainment on your TV. Simple and intuitive setup allows you to focus on your favorite content when you want it.

LG IoT at Home

The most striking feature of future kitchens appears to be how we interact with technology. We can already communicate with our appliances today using HomeChat on our cellular phone increasing technological access. Even when you’re not home, you can check the inventory of your refrigerator, schedule the cycle on your washing machine, or give specific instructions to your oven to heat up food while we’re commuting home. Only time will tell if we can tell if we can make our appliances cook food for us.

NAIROBI SECURITIES EXCHANGE LAUNCHES THE REIT MARKET AS STANLIB KENYA ANNOUNCES THE FIRST I-REIT PUBLIC OFFER

On 22nd Oct 2015, the Nairobi Securities Exchange officially launched the Real Estate Investment Trust (REITs) Market at a ceremony that also marked the opening of the STANLIB Fahari I-REIT public offer.

An I-REIT is a collective investment vehicle that allows investors to pool capital, which is then invested in a portfolio of selected properties for a return. Investors gain through capital appreciation and rental income, with the latter being distributed to unit-holders annually.

Speaking during the launch, NSE Chief Executive Mr. Geoffrey Odundo congratulated STANLIB, saying “The launch of the NSE Real Estate Investment Trust (REITs) and Kenya’s first REIT, marks yet another revolutionary achievement in the history of our capital markets as Kenya becomes the third Exchange in Africa to launch this market.”

“The launch of REITs further enhances financial inclusion in our capital markets as average investors will now be able to invest in large-scale commercial, residential and industrial properties, without requiring large sums of money. I urge other property owners and developers to follow in STANLIB’s footsteps, raising funds to finance their developmental projects through our capital markets,” he added.

 CMA chief executive Paul Muthaura (left) Stanlib East Africa regional headof business Felix Gichaga (second left), Stanlib regional director James Muratha and NSE chief executive Geoffrey Odundo (right) at the NSE head office

The STANLIB Fahari I-REIT public offer, which opened at 08h00 at a minimum subscription of Ksh20,000 (1,000 units) and a nominal value of Ksh20.00 each will close at 17h00 on November 12, this year. The offer will then go through an allotment process with a subsequent listing of units on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE).

Commenting on the offer, Anton Borkum, STANLIB Fahari I-REIT CEO said: “We are glad to introduce this landmark IPO, which is the first Kenya. We are offering both retail and institutional investors a stable income stream with long-term growth and capital appreciation through the STANLIB Fahari I-REIT.”

The STANLIB Fahari I-REIT will be listed on the NSE’s Real Estate Trust Market Segment. Like any other listed security, its future value will be determined by market dynamics. This is expected to create liquidity, meaning unit-holders can sell their holdings or buy more. Open trading will also help in price discovery.

Through a transparent and regulated environment, the STANLIB Fahari      I-REIT, a first in the Kenyan listed market, will provide local and international investors with a diversified investment platform that offers the opportunity to invest in a new asset class.

The STANLIB Fahari I-REIT will benefit from the underlying properties’ rental income and capital gains, giving investors exposure to a reliable and growing return profile in the long-term.

The fund’s rigorous and prudent investment criteria will ensure quality assets backed by a sustainable underlying rental income streams. The vehicle is backed by a dedicated specialist team with in-depth collective experience of over 100 years in the local market and in real estate on the African continent.

The pioneering move by STANLIB comes at a time when property as an asset class in Kenya is under-represented in the capital market. According to the 2015 Economic Survey, growth in real estate and property sector is set to continue, driven by demand for new office space and urban housing. The survey notes that high demand for fixed assets, largely property, was a major contributor to a 5.3 per cent expansion in the Kenyan economy last year. Demand for access to quality commercial property in Kenya continues to grow.

STANLIB has a footprint in 10 countries in Africa and manages over $46 billion in assets for both institutional and retail clients across Africa. 

The US has the world’s most advanced REIT market in the world. Australia, France, Japan, Canada, the Netherlands, Singapore and Hong Kong also have active markets for an asset class whose returns averaged 18 per cent in 2012. In Africa, growth in this market has been limited by the absence of enabling legislation. South Africa has traded in REITs for the last 10 years, while Ghana has had access to REITs since 1994 and Nigeria 2007.

James Muratha, STANLIB East Africa, Regional Director concludes: “STANLIB Kenya is excited to be part of the constant evolution in the African capital markets and to empower investors. We are proud to be a contributor to the growth of the property sector and importantly, the economy. We welcome all investors as we launch this offer today, and we look forward to making Kenya’s first I-REIT a success.”

Jambojet launches campaign targeting first time flyers

Since the introduction of low cost flying in Kenya a one and a half year ago, air travel has become accessible to more Kenyans and is no longer considered a preserve of the rich. As such, more Kenyans are opting to fly rather than travel by road or rail especially over long distances.

Encouraged by this trend, Jambojet, the first low cost airline in Kenya, has launched a campaign targeting first time fliers. The main goal of the campaign dubbed ‘Invitation to Fly’ is to demystify flying while highlighting the benefits, especially of low cost air travel, over traditional means of transport such as road or rail.

The campaign which will include advertising , will rely heavily on testimonials of first time flyers, encouraging them to share their personal experiences on how flying has changed their lives. Most first-time flyers are ordinary Kenyans including traders, tourists, students and government, civil society and private sector employees.

The airline will also use the campaign to create better understanding of how the low cost flying concept works so that first time and repeat customers are able to better plan their travel schedules. 

Jambojet CEO Willem Hondius says that since the airline launched operations in April last year, the number of passengers has been gradually increasing. “We have seen strong uptake of low cost flying in Kenya. However, many Kenyans are yet to appreciate how the low cost flying concept works. With this campaign, we are aiming to not only demystify flying but also create better understanding of how lost cost flying works,” said Hondius. 

Although flying is generally considered a faster and safer means of travel, it is however beyond the reach of the majority who would want to fly but cannot owing to high cost of tickets. Low cost airlines like Jambojet seek to address this need by eliminating the frills normally offered on flights such as food and drinks so as to keep the cost of air tickets low.

A bus ride between Nairobi and Mombasa normally takes eight hours and costs an average Ksh2500. A flight over the same distance takes  one hour with Jambojet charging a minimum fare of Ksh3,450 per ticket one way depending on how early one books their flight. 

“The value proposition of low cost flying is there for all to see. Flying cuts travel time especially when one plans their travel in advance which is what we are encouraging Kenyans to embrace so as to enjoy the thrill, affordability and convenience of flying,” Hondius explained.

EABL Foundation launches a countrywide Water Initiative

(L-R) Jean Kiarie-Ngumu Group Head of Sustainability, Council of Governors' Chairman Hon. Peter Munya, Julie Adell-Owino EABLF Group Corprate Relations Director and Dep. Gov. Gerald Githinji

The EABL Foundation has today announced an expansive initiative in counties aimed at providing access to clean water and potentially transforming livelihoods of communities in dire need of the commodity.

The initiative will involve development of 10 sustainable, water projects in 10 counties to benefit communities struggling to access water. The programme is part of a larger programme dubbed “Water of Life” under which the Foundation has implemented over 50 community water projects in areas that are encountering perennial water shortage in the region.

Speaking at the launch, EABL’s Julie Adell-Owino, said the initiative is aimed at drastically reducing the amount of time and hassle that people - especially women and children - encounter in search of water, an increasingly scarce commodity among many communities in the region.

“We are not only critically conscious of the important role that provision of clean, drinking water plays for sustainable development but are aware that population expansion has stressed existing water resources. Hopefully, this project will free up time for women to be involved in other socio-economic activities and provide children adequate time to study, therefore boosting their chances to succeed in life,” added Ms. Adelle-Owino

The ten counties in Kenya to benefit under the initiative are Kitui, Tharaka Nithi, Kericho, Murang’a, Narok, Siaya, Kiambu, Kakamega, Nairobi and Mombasa.  

Launching the initiative, Council of Governors’ Chairman Hon. Peter Munya, acknowledged the Foundation for its efforts in complementing counties’ efforts to provide clean and safe water to communities. He appealed to communities to be protective of the infrastructure once set up to maximize benefits to them and called for a collaborative public-private sector partnership to restore and protect water towers and catchment areas alongside all wetlands.

“Careful environmental audit should precede the development and later, management of water projects such as boreholes. To ensure this happens, favourable water practices need to be developed and new water management standards established.”

Over the last 10 years, the EABL Foundation has sponsored over 50 sustainable water projects in East Africa, positively impacting over 5 million lives directly and indirectly in the region. These projects include sinking of boreholes, development of water pans and water preservation initiatives.

The initiative is part of EABL Foundation’s 10^th Year Anniversary marking the launch of EABL’s corporate social responsibility arm in 2005. The location of the water projects is informed research by the Foundation establishing demand for the commodity based on population density abd geographical set-up.

Kenya is largely considered as a water-scarce country, with water per capita of about 647 m3 per year and a resource endowment of 21 billion cubic meters a year. The National Water Master Plan 2030 indicated that Kenya has up to 60 billion cubic meters of groundwater potential that now requires compressive investigation to locate and map out these aquifers for exploitation.

“It is important to acknowledge the fact that matters of form and location of water —now more than ever before—call for concerted interventions. Therefore, we need expert opinion based on scientific evidence in this regard so that mitigation factors are put in place early” noted Gov. Munya. 

The World’s #1 fabric softener Downy Concentrate is now available in Kenya.

 

Millions of moms all over the world already turn their laundry into a message of love for their families thanks to Downy. Now moms in Kenya can enjoy the long-lasting freshness and softness of Downy Concentrate all day long too.

About Downy Concentrate:
Downy Concentrate delivers all the benefits that you can expect from a fabric softener. Its unique formula contains perfume oils that penetrate deep into the fibres of fabrics releasing long lasting freshness throughout the day. And a protective layer delivers:

o FRESHNESS BENEFIT: the protective layer functions as an anchor for Downy’s perfume oil particles, which are designed to chemically bind to it and thereby ensure long lasting freshness
o SOFTNESS BENEFIT: the protective layer coats even the finest textile fibers, lubricating as well as smoothening them, in order to achieve a new level of fabric softness

o ANTI-WRINKLING BENEFIT: the protective layer helps fibers maintain their elasticity, which keeps fibers from wrinkling as they become dry

o FABRIC PROTECTION BENEFIT: the protective layer reduces friction between fibers, protecting them from getting worn out during wear

The Fragrances: Downy Concentrate is available in four variants:

FOR THOSE WHO WANT A CLEAN, FRESH SCENT:
- Valley Dew has a floral, woody fragrance (available in 20ml, 500ml and 1L)
- Floral Breeze has a herbal fragrance with musky top notes (available in 500ml)

FOR THOSE WHO WANT A MOOD AWAKENING SCENT:
- Feel Romantic has fruity, floral fragrance (available in 20ml, 500ml and 1L)
- Feel Relaxed has a floral fragrance with musky top notes (available in 500ml)
Dosage:
For standard washing machines and normal loads, we recommend using 40ml dose to enjoy the Downy experience. In case of hand wash we would recommend using 20ml.
Product Information:
Product size: 20ml sachets, 500ml and 1l
RRP: Ksh15.00 for 20ml sachets, Ksh250.00 for 500ml and Ksh450.00 for 1L
Available at: Leading retailers across Kenya
For more information visit: www.facebook.com/DownyKenya

P&G LAUNCHES DOWNY IN KENYA

 Procter & Gamble (P&G), the consumer goods company behind leading laundry detergent, Ariel, has launched Downy Concentrate Fabric softener in Kenya for the first time.

“We are excited to bring the world’s number one fabric softener, Downy Concentrate, to the country,” said Iacopo Pazzi, Managing Director of P&G East Africa. “Kenya is the first country in sub-Saharan Africa where Downy has been introduced. We are committed to the Kenyan market and are confident that Downy Concentrate will meet the needs of Kenyan families as it has done globally for millions of consumers for more than 50 years.”

Downy Concentrate provides multiple benefits when used to do laundry. Downy Concentrate is available in four different variants and provides multiple benefits when used to do laundry.
Firstly, it offers a long-lasting freshness with its unique concentrated formula that contains perfume oil to penetrate deep into clothing fibres, keeping them fresher all day long. In addition, the fabric softener’s one-of-a-kind active softening agents make fibres softer and smoother, maintaining elasticity, lessening the incidence of creasing and making clothes easier to iron. The softening agents also leave a protective layer on the clothing fibres so that quality is maintained longer than when using detergent alone.

Finally, because new Downy is concentrated, it also offers superior value: with Downy, you can wash up to 2.5 times more clothes than with regular softener. Though the above advantages of Downy Concentrate have already made it a leading brand in international markets, it’s most famous feature is its ability to emulate a mother’s loving touch.

Downy’s long-lasting transforms fabrics into messages of love. “When you use Downy to enhance the fragrance, feel and life of your clothes, you will pass on unspoken words of confidence, care and love to your child or partner during important moments, such as nerve-wracking class speeches or big sports games,” said P&G East Africa’s Marketing Director, Anthony N’ganga. “They will be able to feel the love and encouragement in their clothing, giving them the extra boost they need.”
According to Faith Mwaura, Downy Parenting Expert, simple things like freshly washed clothes are a powerful gesture of a mom’s thoughtfulness in her role as caregiver. “When we send our children out into the world, we want them to know that even when far away from us, Mom is always there for them,” she says. “Just the scent of home on fresh, soft clothes can give them a little extra boost of confidence.”

Share your message of love on the Downy Kenya Facebook page and stand the chance to win
To mark the launch of Downy Concentrate in Kenya, P&G is inviting mothers from across the nation to share their personalised messages of love on the company’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/DownyKenya) to stand a chance to win one year’s worth of school fees for her child to the value of Ksh 300 000.

“P&G recognises the importance of parents investing in their children’s education, as this is investing in their future potential,” commented Mr N’ganga. “This is why we are on a mission to send the nation’s children to school with the scent of Mom’s love and a big boost of freshness and confidence. Millions of moms all over the world already turn their laundry into a message of love for their families thanks to Downy.”

Downy launch entrance at Sankara

Downy display table at Sankara

Victoria Rubadiri - The MC

Media guests watching Downy simulation

Michelle Mesa from P&G research and dvmpt doing a Downy Simulation

Michelle Mesa from P&G research and dvmpt doing a Downy Simulation

Downy moms sharing their mummy tips