Uber’s Real-Time ID Check Will Enhance Security

Uber’s Real-Time ID Check has given a new meaning to selfies, turns out that Facebook likes and Instagram double tapping are just but basic uses.

The taxi hailing company describes Real-Time ID Check as a security feature designed to prevent fraud and protect drivers’ accounts from being compromised.

Uber has definitely given the term “Selfie” a new meaning.

Uber drivers are now required to take selfies before signing on to the platform and accepting ride requests.

Uber Chief Security Officer Joe Sullivan stated that the Real-Time ID Check will help ensure that the selfie of the driver using the app in real time matches the one in Uber’s database.

This security feature is also expected to confirm that the driver behind the wheel is actually the same one associated with the Uber account.

The company uses Microsoft’s Cognitive Services to compare the selfies submitted against the photo in the Uber database. This verification process only takes a few seconds

The security feature came as a surprise especially since the company has long resisted security measures such as fingerprinting to check drivers’ criminal records.

Well, it seems that Uber is revising a lot nowadays as this comes a few months after they revised the fare structure.

The Uber Driver Scams

Uber driver scams are not a new phenomenon.

In 2016, Uber faced a spooky problem in China.

Some Uber drivers had been using zombie-like profile pictures scaring customers into canceling their rides.

The drivers would then benefit from a small cancellation fee.

In some cases, it has been reported that some Uber drivers would let the passenger enter the cab, after which they would terminate the trip before the customer even sees the car.

The problem of fake driver scams has also been reported at airports.

The rides were allegedly scheduled without using the official Uber software but the Uber name used to market the service.

The Real-Time ID Check an acknowledgment of superficial background checks?

Uber has definitely adopted the best 21^st-century identification method-selfies.

Until the introduction of this security feature, there was no way for Uber to verify whether drivers were switching cars, a practice that is considered a security risk.

But,

Ugly controversies have rocked Uber for some time and that is why some people are questioning Uber’s past commitment to passenger safety.

Critics have stated that the new Uber driver security feature is an explicit acknowledgment by Uber that some of its driver partners have never undergone background checks.

Uber drivers have been exposed for misconduct in the past. A good example is with an incident that happened at the JKIA. A Facebook user posted about an incident alleging that an Uber driver had attempted to steal her laptop

In India, an Uber driver was arrested for indecent behavior in the presence of a passenger. The female passenger alleged that the driver was masturbating each time the taxi stopped at a signal.

Another female passenger alleged that she had been raped by an Uber driver in Delhi.

To be fair, some Uber drivers have not had it easy as well. Some passengers have issued threats, those who give wrong addresses, the drunken, and those who give poor ratings for no reason at all.

So, the next time you see an Uber driver taking a selfie, do not stare hard. Just know it is for your own good.

Jamii Hints Entry into Mobile Money Transfer Space with Faiba Money

Terry Gachie

Jamii Telecommunication Limited (JTL) has signaled a possible mobile money entry with Faiba Money.

JTL has already applied to register trademarks for mobile money and payment services.

Mobile money transfer services are considered the most lucrative segment of the telecom business and that may explain why Jamii wants a piece of the pie.

Reports indicate that JTL applied for five new trademarks including Faiba Mobile and Faiba Pay.

The Business Daily reports that these trademarks appeared in the June edition of the Industrial Property Journal.

In an interview, JTL chairman said that the trademarks were the company’s strategy of protecting its brand.

He said that at this point in time, mobile money is not the company’s focus.

He, however, went on to reveal that while Jamii is yet to seek regulatory approvals for mobile money, there is a possibility of a future roll out.

The new product will be among other products such as the company’s internet services.

Faiba Money and the Crowded Segment

The entry of Faiba money into the already crowded mobile money segment is expected to intensify competition.

Although Safaricom’s mobile money solution M-PESA dominates the mobile money transfer segment, other players such as Airtel Money, Equitel Money, and Mobile Money are still competing in the same space.

At present, M-PESA boasts the highest number of subscriptions with over 22 million subscribers and over 130 money agents countrywide.

The third quarterly sector stats report by the Communications of Kenya (CA) revealed that M-PESA transactions stood at Ksh. 890,274,606.

Faiba Money will not have it easy since it may take a lot of convincing for users to make a switch.

This is mostly because existing competition has loyal users who may not be willing to switch to Faiba Money.

Airtel Money supports free cash transfers but the switch has not been felt. The mobile money transfer service is still categorized in the “others” category.

Orange Money (it is awaiting rebranding) has not had it easy in this segment as well.

M-PESA has enjoyed a high level of loyalty and growth and this explains why other service providers namely Airtel Money and Orange Money are yet to gain target subscription rates.

This just goes to prove that there is tough competition in the market. Thus, Faiba Money will not have it easy.

But, there is hope:

Should Faiba Money offer innovative features, then it would be easier to convince people to switch.

Case in point, Eazzybanking, the Equity bank mobile banking App, subscription numbers keep rising given the robust experience it offers. The wide range of services has definitely made life easier for Equity customers; hence, the rising user base.

Also, Safaricom has proved reliable and this has not only earned the telco more subscriptions but also loyalty. It also had a wide reach and this explains the high subscription rates.

As long as the product comes with added benefits, perceived or real, the number of subscriptions could be more. The opposite could be true if no innovation is involved.

As is tradition, The Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI) has given the public 60 days to protest the new trademarks.

This Week in Tech: Safaricom to Use Photo ID to Fight M-PESA Fraud and More Weekly Tech Trends

Terry Gachie

July weather is still on. Staying warm should be your mission, looking cute can wait.

The good news is that the tech world was made for all seasons, including winter. A lot has happened in the tech world this week.

Below are the top trending topics this week:

1. No pesa for M-PESA fraudsters

It seems like M-PESA fraudsters will be forced to go back to the drawing board and rethink their strategy or close shop.

Kenya’s leading telco Safaricom had announced that M-PESA agents will soon start using photo identification to fight M-PESA fraud.

The prevention measure is dubbed ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC).

2. TIDDP brings you the behind-the-scenes of county governments

The Integrated Devolution Data Portal (TIDDP) will give the public access to information on devolution and county governments.

TIDDP also seeks to increase public participation in county governance and hopefully enhance transparency.

3. Google tools to safeguard media during the Kenya election period

Google and Jigsaw have launched a set of tools designed to safeguard the Kenyan media from digital attacks during the August general elections.

These tools include Protect Your Election, Project Shield, and Two-Step Verification.

Speaking during the launch, Google Kenya Country Manager Charles Murito said that the tools will ensure that everyone receives credible stories.

He added that the tools will safeguard publishers, news organizations, human right groups, and election monitoring sites from digital attacks during the election period.

4. Mdundo seems to be using lethal weaponry to kill piracy

Remember Mdundo? The music distribution service was launched in 2013 to provide music lovers access to affordable music.

Mdundo just announced that it has crossed the 8 million users mark.

The company announced that it has over 1.5 million users per month and 18 million downloads over the past 6 months.

The company offers both free and premium versions of service.

5. KFC adds an interesting item to its already awesome menu, a smartphone

The KFC-branded Huawei smartphone has been released into the Chinese markets. The new menu item is spicy hot red.

The smartphone comes with okay specs but the KFC-branded pre-installed music app rocks.

And did I mention that Colonel Sanders face is embossed on the back?

6. Microsoft leaves Windows Phone 8.1 for the dead

Microsoft has announced that they will withdraw all support for Windows Phone 8.1.

This means no more security updates, non-security updates, or assisted support (both paid and free).

This also means that your Windows Phone is as good as crippled if you do not upgrade it to Windows 10.

7. Whatsapp file sharing becomes even more useful

Whatsapp has added support for document sharing letting you share any file type.

The file sharing update allows you to share files additional formats including .zip, .mkv, and xml.

There is still size limit, however, since the files being sent cannot be heavier than 100MB for Android and 128MB for iOS.

The update also includes the option to bold, italicize, or strikethrough your chats with a simple tap and hold over the words to be formatted.

8. Microsoft gives Android and iOS app a new face

Microsoft has released an update for the Outlook app for both Android and iOS.

This update brings a redesigned conversations and navigation pages.

9. Google’s new 2-step verification

Today, someone can steal your account password without breaking a sweat.

Google will from next week give users the option to verify their signings instead of the previous system that used SMS only.

The SMS 2-step verification is especially useful for users who still prefer the old SMS verification method.

10. Whatsapp gets a C- on guarding user privacy

Companies draft the best privacy policies; they will make you feel that your personal details are in the right hands.

Lucky for us, third parties such as the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) give us the real tea.

That’s how we know that Whatsapp has received 2 out of possible 5 stars when it comes to following industry best practices on users’ privacy.

Turns out your private chats may not be as safe as you would imagine.

That’s it for this week. Have an awesome weekend.

A KFC-Branded Huawei Smartphone Announced

Terry Gachie

KFC has revised its menu by adding a spicy hot item to it. And no, we are not talking about food. It turns out that we now have a KFC-branded Huawei smartphone.

This comes as a surprise. Weird yes, but kind of cool.

The popular fast food chain has partnered with Huawei to release a limited edition smartphone called KFC edition Huawei Enjoy 7 Plus.

The device was released to commemorate 30 years of the Chain’s operations in China.

The best part yet?

Colonel Sanders’ face is embossed on the back of the smartphone. Sanders is the KFC founder.

KFC made the announcement on their page in Chinese but Google has been gracious enough to translate it into English. Albeit, below par.

Below is the Google translation:

# Kentucky China 30 years from 1987 to 2017, 30 years accompanied by the taste of the times, suck refers to the aftertaste! Kentucky together with Huawei joint cooperation, the introduction of Huawei Chang enjoy 7 Kentucky commemorative version of gorgeous struck! Commemorative Edition laser back carving, pre-installed Kentucky Super APP, with WOW member 10 thousand K gold, but also the first to experience k-music song function. Limited to 5000 will soon be on sale, waiting for you to grab!”

This is probably not the best translation but who are we to judge? Someone actually translated “Ee mungu nguvu yetu” to “Ooh God of all creation” and we proudly sing it.

In any case, the bottom line is that you get the point.

The announcement comes alongside an introduction video. The video takes you back to 1987 when the first outlet opened in China to the present.

The video features young people in a KFC restaurant sharing music via the handset’s music app (and of enjoying the crispy tasty chicken).

What Specs does the KFC-Branded Huawei Smartphone Sport?

The KFC smartphone is a younger sister to Huawei Enjoy 7 Plus, a mid-range smartphone available in select markets.

The smartphone comes with a 5.5-inch screen with a 720p display.

It sports a Snapdragon 435, 12MP camera, and 3GB RAM.

It comes with a fingerprint sensor mounted on the back of the device and is powered by a 3,020 battery unit.

That’s not all:

The handset comes with a KFC-branded pre-installed music app that allows you to create and share playlists in KFC restaurants.

The KFC-Huawei Partnership a Good Idea?

Why not?

Smartphones and food are two great joys in life. The best part is that people love chicken, especially the KFC chicken. Overpriced yes, but still “finger-lickin’ good”.

The love for KFC’s crispy chicken and that of smartphones makes one hell of a recipe.

In any case, if you love both, why not get them from the same roof.

KFC and Huawei said they will only be releasing their baby into the Chinese market and only 5,000 units will be made.

It is also important to note that the handset will lack some Google services since it is made specifically for the Chinese market.

KFC-Branded Huawei Smartphone price: A unit will retail at $160 that’s about 1099 Chinese Yuan

The Integrated Devolution Data Portal Will Allow You to Access Data on Devolution

Terry Gachie

The Integrated Devolution Data Portal (TIDDP) could not come at a much better time.

Kenyans welcomed devolution with open arms but the sad reality is that only a small percentage is well-informed about this governance system.

The portal will act as a central repository for information on the 47 county governments. The public will access all there is to know about devolution and county governments.

It will allow stakeholders to identify, retrieve, and use information relating to devolution.

The Integrated Devolution Data Portal was launched following collaboration among The Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), Commission Revenue Allocation (CRA) and the European Union.

TIDDP was launched by ICT Cabinet Secretary Joe Mucheru. The CS noted that the government is committed to providing relevant information from all 47 counties for decision making and accountability purposes.

Other attendants were CRA Chairperson Dr. Jane Kiringai and KAM Head of Operation Dalmas Okendo. Kiringai noted that the portal aims to simplify access to county news and information.

The portal is a free data sharing platform that will allow Kenyans from all walks of life to access data relating to Devolution in Kenya.

The portal features data from different entities including citizens, investors, and the government.

TIDDP’s Other Objectives

The Integrated Devolution Data Portal will allow Kenyans to access data on legislation that various county governments have implemented.

The portal will also allow the public to access the fees and taxes that various county government’s charge.

The “Kanju” and traders have not seen eye-to-eye for long.

One of the reasons is that the business people are not acquainted with taxation laws. This is set to change since TIDDP will give business people access to county taxation laws.

This will help them plan their businesses and above all compare the economic environments of various counties. This will, in turn, give insight on the most favorable business environments.

In addition, it will act as a wake-up call to counties that are seen to be unfavorable for businesses since they may run the risk of reduced revenues.

Apart from providing information about county laws, the integrated devolution data portal features other details about each county.

The Overview section covers details such as location, constituencies, amenities, economic, education, and health.

Other sets of information include county financial information, county policy documents, revenue collection centers, and upcoming events.

TIDDP will also serve as a platform where all the 47 counties use the resources available in the portal to learn from each other.

Increased Public Participation

TIDDP portal will encourage increased public participation in county affairs.

Your MCA will no longer be the overall decision maker on matters county legislation since the portal will give you the chance to effectively guide him or her.

The public has not always been involved when it comes to governance matters.

The current generation loves to hide behind the keyboard and complain.

We can only hope that TIDDP will change Kenyan’s attitude on the important role of public participation.

The popular Kenyan saying “We were not consulted” needs to be buried 10 feet under.

Will the Integrated Devolution Data Portal enhance transparency?

It has the potential to but we can only hope it will.

Most people have no idea about the financial information of their counties. This is a sad state of affairs especially since this money comes from their pockets.

We cannot be 100% sure that this platform will enhance transparency. Nevertheless, increased public participation is likely to put county officials on their toes.

Best Android Browsers for Fast Downloads in 2017

Terry Gachie

To make the most of your data connection or Wi-Fi, one of the things you need to do is opt for the best Android browsers.

Today, most websites have a mobile-friendly design and while this is important, the kind of browser installed plays a role in determining the experience.

Popular Android browsers are Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Opera Browser. But these are not the only ones.

Here is The List of 10 Best Android Browsers:

1. Google Chrome

This is, perhaps, the best Android browser and also the most widely used.

This could be because it comes pre-installed on many Android phones.

Regardless, Google Chrome is fast and gets the job done.

It’s incognito window enables you to browse privately.

The interface is also awesome.

In case you are using Chrome on your PC, you can sync it with your mobile devices enabling your passwords and bookmarks to be accessible across all devices.

2. Mozilla Firefox

Mozilla is probably the major competitor of Google Chrome.

It comes with a clean and simple interface.

This browser allows installation of add-ons.

The browser speed can be described as good.

3. Opera

Opera calls for little or no introduction.

Opera had to make it to the list especially because of its renewed interface and speed.

Its smaller sister, Opera Mini has been a darling to many people especially those with limited internal memory and internet bandwidth. To these people, Opera Mini is the best Android browser ever.

Opera Mini compresses data to deliver pages at a much faster speed.

The Opera browser compresses data thus increasing connection speed.

Opera comes with area Discover, which serves as a news feed.

4. Maxthon Browser

Probably among the fastest browsers today.

It allows you to sync your devices for a seamless web browsing experience.

You can adjust your display for a better experience. It supports add-ons and flash video playback.

5. CM Browser

This browser comes with the essentials of great browser app: fast and secure.

It is memory friendly, comes with a friendly interface, and gives a fast browsing experience.

CM Browser got you covered security-wise since it gives in-app warnings about downloads and suspect websites.

You can also browse the web incognito.

6. UC Browser

Its preloading feature helps with loading speed.

This is a solid recommendation since apart from giving you a fast browsing experience, it manages downloads.

It also comes with Incognito mode support.

7. Next Browser

The clean and appealing interface and a smooth browsing experience have earned the Next Browser a place in this list.

Other important features that aid with performance are voice recognition and low memory consumption.

Another interesting feature is the Next View, which supports offline reading.

8. Dolphin Browser

It is not as fast as other options in the list but it comes with great features.

These features include voice recognition, add-ons, themes, and extensions that can allow sharing of data between your Android device and PCs.

9. Hover Browser

It works best on phones with large displays and tablets.

It is reasonably fast and allows you to open multiple browser windows on your phones and tablets.

10. Puffin Browser

This is among the best Android browsers for flash player.

It increases speed and efficiency by transferring the material to cloud servers before displaying it on your screen.

Photo Identification to be Used to Fight M-PESA Fraud

Terry Gachie

M-PESA agents will soon start using photo identification as a strategy to fight M-PESA fraud.

Safaricom has been trying to weed out M-PESA fraud for quite some time but modern day fraudsters always manage to come up with new ways of conning people.

Well, it seems that the numbers of these fraudsters are numbered since Safaricom has come up a strategy to deal with their conniving ways.

This prevention measure has been dubbed ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC) and it will require M- PESA agents to use two verification items; Customer ID number and the photo.

The photos will be used to identify those withdrawing or depositing money on the M-PESA platform.

The Business Daily reports that Safaricom has announced that it has already distributed over 25,000 pre-preprogrammed phones to be used in the registration of new SIM cards.

The agent will be required to take a picture of a new customer and this data will be automatically saved on Safaricom’s database.

If you are an existing customer, your photo will also be added to the database before the full roll out.

This comes days after the third M-PESA upgrade is ongoing.

While KYC is a great prevention measure, we must ask ourselves whether M-PESA agents have contributed to cases of fraud.

Some M-PESA agents do not countercheck the identity of the customer. Some only ask for the ID number while others just take the ID and copy the ID number. This may have contributed to the increasing M-PESA fraud causes.

M-PESA Fraud Tactics and Cases

Fraudsters have taken advantage of M-PESA loopholes to defraud customers of their money.

In March this year, seven suspected M-PESA fraudsters were arrested for posing as Safaricom customer care agents and asking for M-PESA details including their PIN numbers.

It is alleged that they would withdraw the money immediately it was sent. At the time of their arrest, it is believed that they had pocketed over Ksh. 800,000 in six months.

In 2011, a convicted criminal doing time at the Kamiti Maximum Prison conned M-PESA customers thousands of shillings after forging the ID belonging to a retired Chief of the KDF.

These fraudsters use different methods including stolen or forged IDs to register M-PESA accounts. These are then used to steal from unsuspecting customers.

Others have gone as far as trick customers that they have won some money. What follows is that the customer is given a set of instructions that automatically transfer funds to other accounts. In some cases, customers are swayed to send some money before they access their winnings.

And, how can we forget this message?

Pliz nitumie zile pesa kwa hii number 072xxxxxxxx usitume kwa ile yangu iko na shida upande wa mpesa. So nitumie kwa hii pliz.

Hilarious M-PESA Fraud Attempts that Failed

While some M-PESA fraudsters have succeeded in conning people, others have become a lighting stock.

Their target knew their intent right away and decided to take them on a humorous roller coaster.

Below is a hilarious conversation between a fraud and an M-PESA customer:

And then there was this:

This Week in Tech: The .KE Domain to Cost Ksh. 10K and More Weekly Tech Trends

Terry Gachie

The first week of July has come to a cold end. It is too cold that most of us can barely feel our faces. What appears to be snow has been spotted in some parts of the country.

Antarctica needs to call and get their weather back.

The good news is that the tech world was made for all seasons, it continues to spin.

Below are top ten tech trends that made headlines this week:

1. A .KE Domain at 10K

The Kenya Network Information Center (KeNIC) has announced that it will be rolling out a .KE domain starting July 23^rd.

The domain will cost Ksh. 10k and will be rolled out in four phases.

2. StarTimes’ will Now Reward you for your Loyalty

If GOtv has yet to entice you with their loyalty programme (GOtv Wow), StarTimes may as they have introduced their own loyalty programme.

The loyalty programme will see subscribers upgrade to higher bouquets at no extra cost. Other rewards include bonus airtime upon renewal of the monthly subscription.

Currently, the company offers two types of bouquets: The Digital Terrestrial Technology (DDT) and Direct to Home (DTH).

The pay-tv company hopes that this move will enable it to grow the subscriber base as well as encourage retention rate.

3. 10 Kenyan Startups Win Seed Capital

10 Kenyan startups have won seed capital through the LEAP² challenge.

Initially, 42 startups had applied but only 10 out of these were selected to participate.

The ten startups are Afya plan, Btrack global, Chanjo plus, Deafine Connect, Esvendo social inclusion project, Ebursary, Emeden Kenya Farmers Market Link, Pregmum, Msoma Platform, and Pawame.

The startups raised Ksh. 3Million.

4. Snap and Attach Links to Stories

Snapchat will now allow its users to attach links to stories. The update is applicable for the iOS and Android.

If you haven’t noticed, look out for a paperclip icon on your toolkit as it will enable you to type the link. When recipients tap on that link, it will open on Snapchat’s browser.

Other updates are Backdrops which allows you to add colorful patterns on the cut area of your snap.

The other update is a Voice filters which will allow users to use several voice filters to make a remix of their voices.

Also, users will now be able to create their own geofilters.

5. Samsung Galaxy Note 7 Resurrects

Samsung Galaxy Note 7 is returning under the name Samsung Galaxy Note Fan Edition.

Rumors of a possible comeback of Note 7 have been doing rounds but we can now confirm that it is true.

Note Fan Edition comes with some slightly different features although it reminds us of its dead sister.

6. Android Nougat’s Rising Market Share

Android Nougat has just crossed the 10% mark since its launch. This can only mean that Marshmallow continues to dominate the market at 31.8%.

Nougat share has been low since it was released into the market towards the end of 2016.

However, its share is expected to increase as more and more devices come with this platform out of the box.

7. Visa and Direct Pay Partnership Promises More MVisa Payments

Visa and Direct Pay Online (DPO) have partnered to enable 20,000 more merchants to accept MVisa payments.

This move will facilitate mobile commerce in Kenya as well as connect more people and businesses to the global economy.

mVisa is a mobile payment solution which enables consumers to pay merchants or send money directly from their bank account.

8. LG Set to Unveil LG Q6

LG Q6, also known as LG G6 Mini, is expected to be unveiled on July 11^th.

LG G6 has been on the market for quite some time now but it seems that it will have to share the podium with LG Q6. Or pave way for Q6 to rule the airwaves.

Rumored specs of LG Q6 are a 5.4-inch display, 3GB RAM, and a 13MP camera.

9. A Nokia Dual Lens Smartphone + Zeiss Optics?

Those who are still loyal to Nokia should expect a Nokia smartphone with Zeiss optics. It is rumored that the handset will be unveiled later this year but HMD Global has not confirmed this.

Get ready for a Dual-Nokia smartphone soon. Or should I say hopefully?

10. Sony to Discontinue TrackID

TrackID is being discontinued effective September 15^th.

TrackID is a music recognition service by Sony. Sony installed it in their Sony Ericsson phones and Sony apps.

Once the app shuts down, users will not be able backup their history.

Sony is recommending its competitor, Shazam.

Have an awesome week ahead. Remember to keep warm.

Kenyatta University Portal, Courses & Contacts

Terry Gachie

KU does not need an introduction. The institution is home to top scholars and notable innovations.

A tour of the Kenyatta University Portal gives a befitting introduction one of Kenya’s best institution.

Of course, the breathtaking architecture cannot be overlooked. The institution has invested heavily in infrastructure in an effort to offer students the best experience.

The institution continues to make outstanding progress in various academic and non-academic areas.

This article seeks to present some important information that has been featured in the Kenyatta University portal.

The Kenyatta University Portal Link

Here is the link to the portal http://www.ku.ac.ke/.

The Student Portal

The student portal gives students access to personalized information and a wide range of tools.

Students can access information such as degree audit report, financial aid award letter, schedule, student account, messages and calendar, access ICT support services, attendance, grades, and lecturer survey.

Visit the student portal for more information.

Kenyatta University Courses

This is perhaps one of the most important sections of the Kenyatta University portal. It gives you a summary of courses that you can study at the institution.

Here is the list of course that you can study at Kenyatta University:

Agriculture And Enterprise Development
Applied Human Sciences
Architecture and the Built Environment
Business
Creative Arts, Film & Media Studies
Virtual and Open Learning
Economics
Engineering And Technology
Environmental Studies
Education
Hospitality & Tourism
Humanities & Social Sciences
Law
Medicine
Nursing
Pure And Applied Sciences
Public Health
Security, Diplomacy and Peace Studies
Visual And Performing Arts

The minimum requirement for undergraduate degree courses is a C+ at KCSE or the equivalent. In addition, each applicant must meet specific degree requirements for each school.

Related: 10 Best Universities in Kenya

Kenyatta University Distance Learning

Today, Distance learning has become a preference for many especially career people. Many have labeled it the “anywhere” school. This program allows you to study from anywhere, anytime, and at your own convenience.

Access the distance learning for undergraduate programs portal for more information

Access the master’s programs distance learning portal here.

Kenyatta University Application Forms

Apply for your certificate, diploma, degree, and postgraduate programs at the Kenyatta University portal. You can choose from three modes of study namely regular, institutional and virtual, and open learning.

There is an application guide for a smooth application process.

Here’s the link: http://applications.ku.ac.ke/registration/public/index.php/index

Kenyatta University Contacts

Tel: +254 20 8703000, +254 20 8704000, +254 20 8710901

Security Hotline: +254 725 471 487, +254 723 772 305

Admission Inquiry: +254 870 3200

Email: [email protected]

Postal Address:

Kenyatta University
P.O. Box 43844-00100
Nairobi,
Kenya.

The Kenyatta University portal also offers you information on available job opportunities, the university counsel, facilities and amenities, news and events, fees structure, among others.

Newest Kenyan Billionaires: Names of the Ten Digit Mortals

Terry Gachie

Kenya’s Zacchaeus, KRA, has published a new list of Kenyan Billionaires.

The names of the ten digit mortals have been derived from the top taxpayer’s list which has uncovered over 100 silent Kenyan billionaires.

The term ‘silent’ should tell you that your local celebrities are not in the list.

When it comes to making the real dough, forget those blinged out celebrities with fake accents and an acquired skin color; the loaded make real money in silent. Well, except for a few.

The new billionaires have joined the A-list of the most elite economic class in Kenya: the ten digit club.

It seems that while many Kenyans face tough economic times that have characterized Kenya in the past three years, others have been balling.

According to KRA, those named are individuals who have no qualms with adopting transparency in the management of their wealth and tax obligations.

Things have taken an interesting twist this year since at least three women are in the list of newest Kenyan billionaires.

Two of the women are Lucy Mwiti and Faith Mwikali.

Not much is known about these two entrants but, isn’t it always the case with members of the coveted club of the rich?

The two women are entering a club that has been traditionally dominated by men. They are proof that women can also join the billionaires club.

As expected, there are some prominent people who have made it to the list. I honestly don’t think the list can be complete without them. This is Kenya.

One is the former Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission Chairman Philip Kinisu.

Isn’t this the same guy who was kicked out of office due to corruption allegations? Yes, there is only one Kinisu associated with EACC. That Kinisu who graced your screens last year.

Well, this shows that the EACC money is that good. Or at least some of it.

KPMG’s Executive Josephat Mwaura and Ernst & Young CEO Gitahi Gichachi have also made it to the list.

Last I checked, banks were not doing that well but it turns out that some were. Or at least some bank executives. The Director of NIC Bank Andrew Ndwegwa has also joined the billionaires club. Mr. Ndegwa holds shares worth Ksh. 1 billion at NIC Bank alone.

Betting has earned some people big dough. No, I am not talking about Abisai and others. I am talking about the stakeholders of these betting companies.

Also, sponsoring big clubs like Hull City and Southampton is no joke.

It, therefore, comes as no surprise that SportPesa Chairman Paul Ndung’u has made it to the list. Have you seen the wheels that these people spin?

Old Money

The new billionaires join the list of Kenya’s longstanding billionaires such as stock market billionaire investor Baloobhai Patel, and businessman Naushad Merali the Sameer Investments chairman.

Others are Bharat Thakrar the Scangroup CEO, as well as industrialists Narendra Raval the Devki Group chairman, and Pradeep Paunrana the ARM Cement CEO.

Calculating the Gross Income

KRA has stated that the data used to calculate their gross income is mainly for purposes of taxation.

The income has been earned from employment, private partnership, marketable securities, and an array of businesses they control.

The statuses of the newest Kenyan billionaires can be justified by a gross annual income of between Ksh. 350 million and Ksh. 1 billion.

While KRA says that the list is made up of individuals who have adopted transparency in the management of their wealth and tax obligations, I am tempted to give the taxman the side eye. Albeit, for a second.

The problem is that a good percentage of the rich in Kenya have political connections. What this means is that they may have the privilege of evading taxes for some of their investments.

Bust still, these people are the real Kenyan billionaires.

We congratulate those who have gained entrée into the billionaires club (the Godly way).

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