The Daily Palette

 Uasin Gishu County has unveiled new monuments and statues in Eldoret town to mark its elevation to city status, with a focus on enhancing the town's aesthetic appeal. New Statues and Monuments One of the highlights of the recent installations is a statue of a milk guard placed at the Juma Haji roundabout. This statue has received praise from residents for its high-quality craftsmanship compared to previous installations. Many locals have expressed their approval, noting that it surpasses earlier statues in terms of artistry and detail. Initial Backlash and Replacements The unveiling of several thematic monuments on Wednesday, however, led to some controversy. Several statues, including one depicting an athlete at Fims junction and a green maize crop at Telecom roundabout, were met with criticism. Residents criticized the likeness and quality of these monuments, leading to a social media backlash. The issues with the initial monuments were significant enough that the county adminis...

 The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (Epra) has announced that fuel prices will remain unchanged for the period from August 15, 2024, to September 14, 2024. This decision follows a review conducted under Section 101(y) of the Petroleum Act 2019 and Legal Notice No. 192 of 2022. Current Fuel Prices In Nairobi, the maximum retail prices for the coming month are as follows: Super Petrol: KSh 188.84 Diesel: KSh 171.60 Kerosene: KSh 161.75 These prices include the 16% Value Added Tax (VAT), consistent with the Finance Act 2023, Tax Laws (Amendment) Act 2020, and revised excise duty rates adjusted for inflation as specified in Legal Notice No. 194 of 2020. Price Trends and Import Costs Epra's review also highlights recent trends in the average landed cost of imported petroleum products: Super Petrol: Decreased by 1.06% from US$716.03 per cubic metre in June 2024 to US$708.47 per cubic metre in July 2024. Diesel: Increased by 1.62% from US$682.73 per cubic metre to US$693.8...

 In a heated debate, the Teachers' Service Commission (TSC) is under scrutiny over the automatic deduction of agency fees from the salaries of visually impaired teachers, which has sparked significant controversy. The Kenya Visually Impaired Teachers’ Association (KEVIT) has voiced strong opposition to these deductions, arguing that the Kenya Union of Special Needs Education Teachers (KUSNET) does not represent their interests. The Dispute During a recent session of the Senate Committee on Labour and Social Welfare, chaired by Senator Julius Murgor, KEVIT’s chairperson, Mbugua Kamau, raised concerns about the forced transfer of visually impaired teachers from the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) to KUSNET. Kamau criticized the T-Pay online platform, which teachers use to manage third-party deductions, for lacking an option to exit KUSNET. Kamau’s claims centered on the issue that many visually impaired teachers were automatically enrolled in KUSNET without their consent, lea...

 Navigating the American market can be challenging for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from Africa. Despite a growing demand for African products, several factors influence how these products can effectively reach U.S. consumers. Understanding consumer behavior, focusing on sustainability, and leveraging trade partnerships are crucial steps for success. Understanding U.S. Consumer Behavior American consumers have distinct preferences that can affect how products are received. For instance, there's a high demand for products like coffee, cocoa, fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish. However, while Africa is a major producer of cashew nuts, the U.S. imports most of its cashews from countries like India, China, and Vietnam, where they are processed before reaching American shelves. This illustrates the importance of understanding both market demand and the supply chain. Additionally, consumer preferences in the U.S. vary significantly. Some shoppers prefer doorstep delivery, while ot...

In Kenya, budget smartphones continue to be a popular choice for many consumers due to their affordability and decent performance. As we move through 2024, several brands have introduced impressive budget-friendly options that offer a good balance of features and price. If you’re in the market for a new smartphone without breaking the bank, here’s a rundown of some of the best budget smartphones available in Kenya under KES 20,000. 1. Infinix Smart 8 (KES 11,000) The Infinix Smart 8 stands out for its value at just KES 11,000. This smartphone offers a 6.56-inch display with a 90Hz refresh rate, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage. Its massive 5000mAh battery ensures all-day usage, while the 13MP rear camera and 8MP front camera are great for capturing everyday moments. Display: 6.56-inch IPS LCD OS: Android 13 Chipset: Unisoc T606 (12 nm) RAM: 3GB, 4GB Storage: 64GB/128GB Main Camera: 13MP + 0.3MP Selfie Camera: 8MP Battery: 5000mAh 2. Redmi A3 (KES 10,800-12,000) The Redmi A3 is a...

In the small coastal town of Guapi, Colombia, a quiet yet powerful movement is unfolding. Mary Luz Ante Orobio and her group of “unstoppable women” are leading a groundbreaking initiative to eliminate mercury from small-scale gold mining, a practice that has poisoned communities and the environment for centuries. With the support of planetGOLD, a United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) initiative, these women are transforming the way gold is mined, while also gaining financial independence and protecting their environment. The Toxic Legacy of Mercury in Gold Mining For over 3,000 years, mercury has been used in small-scale gold mining to extract gold from ore. This toxic chemical binds to gold particles, forming an amalgam that is then heated to release the gold. However, the process releases mercury vapors, which are highly toxic and can cause irreversible brain damage and other serious health issues. Mercury contamination also devastates ecosystems, accumulating in the food chain...

Safeguarding your online privacy and securing your business data, choosing the right VPN can make all the difference. In 2024, the competition between top VPN providers is fiercer than ever, with ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access (PIA) standing out as two of the most popular choices. Both offer robust security features, fast connection speeds, and extensive server networks, but which one truly reigns supreme? In this article, we'll dive deep into a side-by-side comparison of ExpressVPN and PIA, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and overall value for businesses in 2024. Whether you're a seasoned VPN user or just starting out, this guide will help you make an informed decision on which service best suits your needs. This article offers a comprehensive comparison between Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN and ExpressVPN for 2024, highlighting key features, performance, and value. Here’s a summary of the main points: Performance and Speed Winner: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN pro...

In the vast and ever-expanding field of space exploration, the reliability and durability of satellites are paramount. These sophisticated machines are tasked with operating in one of the most extreme environments imaginable. Hurtling through space at speeds of up to 17,000 miles per hour, satellites must endure the vacuum of space, extreme temperature fluctuations, and the intense vibrations and noise of launch. To ensure they can meet these challenges, rigorous testing is essential before they are sent on their mission. This is where the newly opened National Satellite Test Facility (NSTF) in Oxfordshire, UK, steps in, offering a comprehensive and state-of-the-art testing environment for satellites under one roof. The NSTF, located at the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, is a landmark achievement for the UK’s space industry. Operated by Rutherford Appleton Laboratory Space, the facility represents a significant investment in the future of satellite technology. With constructio...

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated dramatically as Iran dismisses calls from Western nations to avoid retaliatory action against Israel following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. This development has sparked concerns of a broader conflict in the region, with both Iran and Israel bolstering their military readiness.  Iran's Stance on Retaliation Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, in a statement to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, defended Iran’s right to retaliate, labeling it a “legal right” and a necessary measure to prevent further crimes. Despite international diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation, Iran remains resolute in its stance. Western Nations' Diplomatic Efforts The leaders of the UK, France, and Germany have jointly urged Iran to exercise restraint, warning that any attacks would exacerbate regional tensions. The UK, in particular, has been vocal, with Prime Minister Starmer personally reaching out to President Pezeshkia...

 Carlo Radebe, once a prominent figure on South African television, is facing a challenging chapter in his life. Known for his role as Duke Ngcobo on the hit e.tv series Backstage in the early 2000s, Radebe's career has seen him contribute to various productions, including iNumber Number and How To Steal 2-Million . However, recent years have not been kind to the actor, who is now reaching out to the public for assistance. 1. Carlo Radebe's Financial Struggles In April, news broke that Radebe was allegedly destitute and struggling to make ends meet. The situation has not improved, prompting the actor to take to Facebook to seek help from good Samaritans. In his heartfelt message, Radebe shared the difficulties he has been facing, including a lack of work for nearly three years. 2. A Plea for Assistance Radebe expressed his gratitude for the donations he received earlier in the year, which he noted lasted only four days. He lamented that promised job opportunities and offers o...

Businessman Jimi Wanjigi has made headlines again after revealing that he was inside his Muthaiga home during a high-profile police raid last Thursday. The multi-agency operation, which was ostensibly launched to gather evidence, has sparked widespread interest and controversy. In a recent interview, Wanjigi shared his perspective on the raid, his involvement in the Nane Nane protests, and his thoughts on the actions of law enforcement. 1. The Muthaiga Raid Last Thursday, a multi-agency team raided Jimi Wanjigi’s residence in Muthaiga, Nairobi, in an effort to collect more evidence. The police camped outside his home for hours, eventually breaking in around midnight. Despite their efforts, the police were unable to locate Wanjigi, leading to speculation about his whereabouts. In a subsequent interview with Citizen TV, Wanjigi revealed that he was indeed inside his home throughout the raid. However, he chose not to disclose further details about where exactly he was within the residence...

In a recent address during the burial of Mzee Chirchir Masit, father of exiled former IEBC Commissioner Irene Masit, ODM leader Raila Odinga disclosed that former President Uhuru Kenyatta played a pivotal role in urging him to engage in dialogue with President William Ruto. This revelation comes in the wake of intense Gen Z protests and national unrest. Raila's insights shed light on the behind-the-scenes efforts to address the crisis and foster political stability. 1. The Role of Uhuru Kenyatta Raila Odinga disclosed that former President Uhuru Kenyatta initiated a crucial conversation with him during a period of severe unrest caused by Gen Z protests. According to Raila, Uhuru reached out to him, requesting that he engage with President Ruto to help calm the escalating tensions. The protests, characterized by violent clashes and widespread demonstrations, had put the nation on edge, prompting Uhuru’s intervention. Raila described the situation as critical, noting that the country...

Moi University is currently facing significant unrest as over 3,000 of its staff members have initiated a go-slow protest, reflecting deep-seated frustrations over chronic salary delays and unresolved workplace issues. The situation has escalated to a point where the employees are threatening a full-blown strike unless their grievances are promptly addressed. This article delves into the details of the protest, the workers' demands, and the implications for the university's management. 1. The Protest The protest, led by union officials from the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) and the Kenya Universities Staff Union (KUSU), saw a mass boycott of work across Moi University’s main campus and the College of Health Sciences. The action comes in response to severe delays in salary payments, with workers specifically citing the non-payment of July salaries as a critical issue. Union leaders Richard Okero of UASU and Mary Chepkwemoi from KUSU have spearheaded the movement, peti...

 In today's digital age, businesses and organizations are increasingly leveraging AI to enhance customer experiences, automate tasks, and streamline operations. One of the most prominent applications of AI is the development of AI agents —i ntelligent conversational assistants that can interact with users in natural language, understand their needs, and perform a wide range of tasks autonomously. These agents, often referred to as chatbots, virtual assistants, or conversational AI, are becoming essential tools across various industries, from customer service and healthcare to finance and retail. This article explores some of the leading AI platforms that enable developers and businesses to build, deploy, and manage sophisticated AI agents. Each platform offers unique features and capabilities, making it suitable for different use cases and development environments. We'll delve into the key aspects of these platforms, highlighting their strengths and potential applications. Top ...

Inchcape Kenya has proudly introduced three new additions to the BMW adventure motorcycle lineup: the 2024 BMW F 800 GS, F 900 GS, and F 900 GSA. The launch event took place in Nairobi during the Bikers Family Festival, hosted by the Private Bikers Association. These 2024 models promise to enhance both on-road and off-road experiences with significant upgrades in performance, comfort, and rider assistance. The F 800 GS, powered by an 895cc parallel-twin engine, delivers 87 horsepower and 67 lb-ft of torque. Its lightweight design and advanced off-road suspension make it well-suited for tackling trails while maintaining comfort on longer rides. The F 900 GS takes performance to the next level with a powerful 105 horsepower and 68.6 lb-ft of torque from the same engine. This model has shed over 14 kilograms from its predecessor, thanks to features like a lighter swingarm, a plastic fuel tank, and an Akrapovič exhaust can, resulting in enhanced handling and acceleration. For those seekin...

 Africa’s tech landscape is burgeoning with innovation and growth, but the affordability of broadband internet remains a critical barrier, especially in rural areas. Ensuring that internet access is both affordable and widespread is crucial for unleashing the continent’s potential, given its youthful population and expanding tech ecosystem. The benefits of affordable broadband extend beyond individual access, facilitating entrepreneurship, economic development, and social change. According to the Global Broadband Pricing League Table 2024 report by Cable , a UK-based company that specializes in telecom pricing comparisons, the following are the top 10 African countries with the most affordable broadband internet. These nations have made strides in reducing costs, thus promoting broader internet adoption and fostering a more dynamic tech environment. Nigeria Nigeria boasts the most affordable broadband options in Africa, with competitive pricing that supports a growing digital econo...

The Paris Agreement, established in 2015, marked a pivotal moment in global climate policy with its ambitious goal of limiting global warming to well below 2°C above per-industrial levels, and ideally to 1.5°C. As we approach the 28th Conference of Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, it’s essential to assess the progress made, the challenges faced, and the road ahead. Progress Achieved: Since its inception, the Paris Agreement has driven significant progress in climate action. A key achievement has been the enhanced commitment from countries worldwide to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Each nation is required to submit its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which outline emission reduction targets. These targets are reviewed every five years, with the expectation that countries will progressively enhance their ambition. Many countries have already updated their NDCs to reflect more ambitious goals. For instance, several developed nati...

Cryptocurrency, a digital form of money built on cryptography and blockchain technology , has been a subject of intense debate since its inception with Bitcoin in 2009. As of today, thousands of cryptocurrencies exist, each offering unique features and facing distinct challenges. The debate surrounding cryptocurrency often polarizes opinions: some see it as the future of global finance, while others consider it a speculative bubble. However, the reality likely lies somewhere in between, as cryptocurrency continues to evolve with both potential and risks. Is Cryptocurrency Just a Fad? Cryptocurrency is not a fleeting trend but a technological phenomenon with over a decade of development behind it. It faces several significant challenges: Volatility: Cryptocurrency prices are notoriously unstable, influenced by market sentiment, regulatory news, and technological changes. This volatility can result in substantial gains or losses for investors. Regulation: The regulatory landscape is a ...

Clearing storage on your iPhone is essential for avoiding the dreaded “Storage Full” notification and keeping your device running smoothly. As time goes by, your iPhone’s storage naturally fills up, potentially slowing down performance and preventing new downloads or media captures. To help you manage this, we’ll walk you through simple steps to free up storage. If your phone remains sluggish even after clearing storage, it might be time to consider upgrading to a newer iPhone. Tools and Requirements iPhone Steps to Clear Storage on iPhone Review Storage Recommendations: Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage > Recommendations . Review and delete files, such as videos and audio, that are no longer needed. Delete or Offload Apps: Navigate to Settings > General > iPhone Storage . Select the app you want to delete, then tap Delete App . If you want to keep the app's data but remove the app itself, choose Offload App . Delete Music: Go to Settings > General > i...