New data from HassConsult reveals a significant shift in Nairobi’s residential property mar A recent surge in visa revocations and policy modifications is creating apprehension among The US government has implemented a stringent new immigration policy known as "Catch-And-Re The remains of three Kenyan nationals who perished in a devastating fire in Sharjah A Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League match between Gor Mahia and Shabana FC at Kasipul Member of Parliament Charles Were was fatally shot Wednesday night in Nairobi bringing a sudden and tragic end to a life marked by entrepreneurial success and persistent controversy. The assassination has sent shockwaves through the political and business communities prompting investigations into the circumstances surrounding his death and reigniting scrutiny of his complex legacy Were's journey from a humble employee to a prominent MP and businessman is a story of remarkable ambition and transformation he quickly ascended the ranks at Mosal Dry Cleaners which soon became a leading player in Meru’s office cleaning sector."I met him while working at Standard Bank having secured contracts with most banks in Meru town That’s how he made his money,” recalled Jackson Kithinji a former Standard Bank employee and friend of the late MP "He was a very calm man.”Were's business acumen soon extended beyond cleaning services into real estate where he invested heavily in rental properties across Meru town His name became synonymous with economic progress providing employment and livelihood opportunities for many residents."It’s tragic that he was killed so brutally I worked with him when he started his business and we travelled across the country opening new branches He even married a Meru woman before leaving Mosal Dry Cleaners," said Nelson Ogweno chairman of the Meru Western Alliance.His business success paved the way for his entry into politics Were aligned himself with ODM leader Raila Odinga becoming a key figure in the party's operations within Meru County Were played a crucial role in financing party activities and coordinating campaigns for Odinga earning him the party's trust and backing.Were's political aspirations materialised in 2013 when he vied for an ODM ticket he was denied the certificate and was forced to run as an independent candidate secured full backing from ODM after paying a substantial sum to the party leadership chairman of the Meru County Boda Boda Riders Sacco describes Were as a generous and approachable man who contributed greatly to Meru’s economy and created numerous job opportunities."It’s heartbreaking that Mr He contributed greatly to Meru’s economy and created numerous job opportunities He was also a kind landlord who never harassed his tenants," Barasa said.However Were’s life was not without its controversies He was remembered by some as a no-nonsense individual who wielded influence in ways that instilled fear he was accused of threatening a police boss and journalists after being implicated in a kidnapping claim A retired journalist in Meru recalled covering the case of a woman who alleged she had been held against her will in Were’s house."When the story was published I had to go into hiding because he threatened me The woman said she had been locked in his house alongside another lady but managed to escape," the journalist said.His departure from Mosal Dry Cleaners was also linked to controversy after the business premises were gutted by fire shortly after he left though investigations later ruled the incident accidental Were's name also surfaced in connection with the disappearance of Daughty Apondi who vanished in November 2010 under mysterious circumstances Her family revealed that Were had promised her a job at a hotel in Meru before she went missing.Her brother We have reported the case to the police.” Apondi’s sister I have never stopped searching for answers despite the threats I received.”Despite these controversies some of Were's allies insist that he was often targeted in political smear campaigns As investigations into his assassination continue Were has left behind a complex legacy of ambition                This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page independent and confident — but she still loves spending time with her herd members New herd member Tsavo has now spent time with all of the elephants without any barriers Pictured is Penzi on the left and Meru underneath Tsavo Zoo visitors can often see Meru’s tiny legs dangling as she wiggles over logs Reid Park Zoo's baby elephant Meru is loving grapes elephant calf Meru has proven herself to be utterly brave and exceedingly confident “I have seen some of the other elephants as they were younger be more reactive or lose their patience more quickly or get nervous about new things, but (Meru) is very confident and very patient and very adventurous,” Reid Park Zoo elephant supervisor Cassie Dodds says Meru was born on March 8 to mom Semba, joining 10-year-old sister Nandi, 4-year-old sister Penzi and allomother Lungile. In late October, Reid Park Zoo, 3400 E. Zoo Court also introduced to the herd 16-year-old male elephant Tsavo “Anytime there’s something interesting going on (Meru will) wander away from her mom and the other elephants to go and investigate even if that’s a new bull elephant,” Dodds says “Her mom was a little cautious and stayed back but Meru went right on up to him and didn’t care that no one else was around her “She has been a bit of a welcoming committee with him,” Dodds says Tsavo was introduced to the herd in baby steps he’s interacted with the entire herd without any barriers in place — Dodds says it was an instantaneous friendship between Tsavo and 835-pound Meru “We were cautious and careful about introducing them and the final step was putting them in the space together,” Dodds says “He immediately was very gentle with her and she immediately treated him like a friend.” watching the introductions among the herd members and Tsavo is something she’ll cherish for the entirety of her career “Elephant introductions are really special and important — the most important thing to them is their social relationship,” she says “Elephants can form bonds that last a lifetime.” which is beneficial when working on her behaviors and training sessions Training sessions at Reid Park Zoo are voluntary for the elephants and always done through positive reinforcement The sessions help zoo staff evaluate the health and well-being of the elephants “She’s learning things lightning fast,” Dodds says so she’ll put her feet on the cables to try to get you to look at them.” where one zookeeper will call her name and another person “She’s getting really fast at that game and she’ll stay with the trainer She’s really starting to focus on the trainer who’s with her,” Dodds says She usually gets moved with her mom so she might think her name is ‘Semba Meru.’” and she’s also been branching out a bit more with slices of apple and sweet potato And although she'll nurse for years to come the big changes in her diet right now are leaves and hay “We’re trying to work with her on elephant pellets which have vitamins and minerals that are good for the elephants Sometimes she eats them like candy and sometimes she’ll just drop them on the ground It varies from day to day — and time of day.” Of course, Meru is still spending time doing what she does best: climbing on logs and large boomer balls her belly rolls on top of the ball and her little feet dangle off the ground “She’ll pass by a lot of other things in the habitat right now to spend time with her balls,” Dodds says Become a #ThisIsTucson member! Your contribution helps our team bring you stories that keep you connected to the community. Become a member today. Gloria was born and raised in Tucson and is a 2018 University of Arizona grad. From wildflowers to wildlife, she loves all things Tucson and hopes to share her love of the city with readers ✨ Paint sessions are a form of enrichment for the elephant herd at Tucson's Reid Park Zoo. Hundreds of movies have been filmed in Tucson, Arizona throughout the years. The many films have starred actors such as Patrick Dempsey, Gene Wilder, Kevin Costner, Whoopi Goldberg and Drew Barrymore. Animal Experts, Inc. rescued a tiny elf owl in November — the sassy owl has led to more than 21 million views on TikTok. Murals in the Tucson, Arizona area continue to fill our city's walls with beauty. Here's where to find some of them! What's going on in Tucson, Arizona: food and wine fest, live jazz, Zoppe Circus, vintage baseball, craft workshops and more in Tucson, Marana and Oro Valley. Tucson is once again playing host to one of the most anticipated events of the year: the Tucson Gem, Mineral and Fossil Showcase.  Now almost 1 year old, Reid Park Zoo's elephant calf is playful and eager to learn.  Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: May 5 (MExN): The Peren District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) held its quarterly-cum-monsoon preparedness meeting on Monday under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner and DDMA Chairman Meru spoke on the importance of coordinated preparedness efforts ahead of the monsoon season “Like every year before the monsoon season sets off the quarterly meeting-cum-monsoon preparedness meeting has been convened to assess the district readiness and preparedness level as well as identify areas that need improvement,” he stated and companies to remain actively involved in disaster response efforts stressing that each stakeholder plays a vital role “We have to prepare for the worst scenario,” Meru warned highlighting specific concerns such as landslide-prone and sinking areas that pose threats to commuters He appealed to the concerned departments to ensure timely maintenance of roads to keep them motorable during the rainy season the Deputy Commissioner advised the Food and Civil Supplies Department to stock up on essential commodities The Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Peren has been tasked with maintaining an adequate supply of medicines to ensure timely response to health-related emergencies Other line departments were also instructed to stay alert and fully prepared for any eventualities arising from the monsoon season The meeting was attended by representatives from various departments and agencies involved in disaster management within the district.  Do you think social media platforms are strengthening or weakening journalism in Nagaland The Morung Express is a people-oriented alternative newspaper based in Nagaland that was conceived from the Naga people’s historical realities and is guided by their voices and experiences It emerged from the well-recognized concept that the core of a free press is based on “qualitative and investigative” journalism Ensuring this is essential for contributing to an informed Naga public that makes sound decisions on issues that affect all spheres of life is the newest member of the elephant herd at Reid Park Zoo Tucson elephant calf Meru warmly greeted her new herd member is making lots of training progress and loves grapes Meru is no longer the newest member of Reid Park Zoo’s elephant herd — but she is still the baby the zoo welcomed Tsavo — a 16-year-old male elephant who moved to Tucson from Florida He joined Reid Park Zoo’s herd of all females including Semba and her daughters 10-year-old Nandi was home to a male elephant was in 2022 when Mabu — the father of Nandi Penzi and Meru — moved to the Fresno Chaffee Zoo so intelligent and very sweet,” elephant care specialist Mara Eisenbarth says we do have to make sure we set up (introductions) in a really safe way We do a lot of work ahead of time to get them introduced to each other through a barrier first.” Introductions are done through extensive communication between keepers and veterinarians allowing staff to prep themselves for any possible scenario it was between two barriers — they couldn’t touch each other allowing the herd to touch their new member so it wasn’t overwhelming for him,” Eisenbarth says “If they’re comfy with how quickly or slowly we’re moving we take that into account to make sure the next few steps are comfortable for everybody.” Lungile and Tsavo have since spent time together without the barriers though keepers aren’t pushing the duration of their hangout time “We really want to build up the relationship and it’s looking really good for far They have a lot of positive interactions,” Eisenbarth says you might see him and Lungile on one side and the rest of the herd on another side — they can still interact He’s more comfortable in the far yard at the moment so for now we are focusing our efforts on the social aspect and as he gets more comfortable we’ll move him over and try to see if he’s comfortable exploring the other yard (closer to the public).” If you know anything about 750-pound baby Meru it’s that she’s brave and the opposite of shy so we had to do that howdy through the fence line with just Semba and Meru,” Eisenbarth says “Meru is very curious and bold and confident in herself and she just walked right up to say hi Semba was a little more aware that this was somebody new but Meru was just thinking it’s a new buddy.” Tsavo has never been around an elephant as small as Meru so he was cautious — so much so that he accidentally touched her with his trunk when trying to sniff her but she isn’t trying to bother him too much — she learned from Penzi when too much is too much,” Eisenbarth says Meru has made lots of training progress in the last month Training sessions at Reid Park Zoo are voluntary for the elephants and done through positive reinforcement Training sessions allow keepers to monitor the health and well-being of the elephants “Her attention span has increased pretty dramatically and she is really focused on learning new things,” Eisenbarth says She recently learned to put her trunk back It’s a skill she picked up quickly — whenever she sees that shiny bucket filled with treats Meru still loves grapes and she recently added pears to her list of favorites But the fruits have to be cut into small pieces — not too large and certainly not pureed Reid Park Zoo's elephant calf Meru is seen here at eight months old climbing over logs and playing with her boomer ball 8-month-old Meru is still as playful as ever She loves climbing on logs and has recently been obsessed with a boomer ball that is mostly in the habitat just for her The indestructible ball made for animal enrichment is small enough for the other elephants to step over — but tiny Meru has to climb onto it “She absolutely loves climbing on it and resting with her belly on it,” Eisenbarth says Like our furry four-legged friends at home elephants also get the zoomies — especially when it’s rainy and cloudy She was just flipping and flopping around everywhere,” Eisenbarth says Tucson's zoo is welcoming 16-year-old African elephant Tsavo to the herd. Elephant calf Meru loves grapes, is learning "ear" cues and has started to be more intentional with the way she uses her trunk. We spent a morning at Reid Park Zoo shadowing a giraffe zookeeper for #ThisIsTucson's new series that highlights the work of Tucsonans with unique jobs who serve the community and keep Tucson thriving. What's going on in Tucson, Arizona this weekend: artisan markets, fall festivals, literacy celebration at the Children's Museum, Charli XCX party and more in Tucson, Marana and Oro Valley. What's going on in Tucson, Arizona this weekend: El Tour de Tucson, hot air balloons, ice skating, markets and more in Tucson, Marana and Oro Valley. Connecting decision makers to a dynamic network of information, people and ideas, Bloomberg quickly and accurately delivers business and financial information, news and insight around the world 2025 at 12:30 PM ESTBookmarkSaveTakeaways NEWA cargo of Russian oil that’s under heavy US sanctions vanished from global tracking systems evidence of how difficult it will be to keep track of — and enforce — the measures The 900-foot oil tanker Meru left Murmansk in the Arctic Sea on Jan ten days after the US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control imposed most-aggressive sanctions on Russia’s oil trade — especially those from the Arctic the term ‘Meru’ means ‘peak’ or ‘mountain.’ In Hindu ‘Meru’ refers to the ‘centre of the universe’ and the divine dwelling place of the Gods offering an unforgettable experience in this premier destination STORY BY Vira Tanka | PHOTOS BY Bagus Tri Laksono The Sanur is the first integrated destination for holistic health in a special economic zone known as Sanur Health Special Economic Zone (Sanur SEZ) which is one of the projects that have been established an all-suite five-star resort that caters to those seeking a peaceful retreat Covering approximately 15 hectares, the resort is situated in an area of historical significance dating back to the 1960s, marking the beginning of Bali’s tourism development. Designed by renowned Indonesian architects Gregorus Yolodi Supie and Maria Rosantina under their new design firm, Yolodi+Maria Architects it embodies the concept of ‘tropical luxury.’ you will pass through a tunnel-like area between the porte-cochère and the lobby The walls are clad in rough-surfaced marble whilst the glossy marble floors in dark tones complement the design The ceiling boasts a long skylight with a water feature and a reflecting mirror thus The water serves as both an aesthetic feature and a cooling element reducing the indoor temperature by 1-2.5 degrees Celsius your eyes will be pampered with its spaciousness this all will make you feel warmly welcomed by the friendly Balinese staff shared with the Bali Beach Hotel (formerly known as Hotel Grand Inna before its renovation) connects The Meru Sanur to its historical neighbour symbolising the link between the past and the present The resort consists of four separate buildings interconnected by bridges that integrate with the surrounding gardens creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces The guest room buildings feature three levels with limasan-style roofs which is a response to the tropical climate The open underlayment of the roofs adds an attractive architectural feature The corridors and connecting bridges are designed to allow natural airflow It’s a breath-taking feature that truly enhances the resort’s focus on beauty and healthful energy for guests The structures are predominantly clad in wood which is also applied in the intricate joinery seen on the roof In addition to being contextually appropriate for the tropical environment the wood enhances the warmth and homey feel of the resort The suites are intentionally spacious, ranging from 83 to 209 square metres. As General Manager Ed Brea explains “Meru is part of the medical and wellness tourism sector where guests undergoing treatment at the hospital can recover It will be ideal as we will have a direct connection to the hospital and will even provide transportation back and forth.” Each suite features a terrace or balcony that connects guests to the exterior allowing them to enjoy the warmth and beauty of Bali’s tropical climate The bathrooms include a rain shower and a bathtub with beach or garden views Also read: Kezia Karin, the interior designer of the suites at The Meru Sanur explained on the resort’s wellness concept: “It’s about living well in general but here it also supports the medical tourism services offered in The Sanur complex We provide holistic wellness and spiritual wellness including traditional spa treatments as well as cutting-edge therapies.” is reserved for guests aged 16 and older to ensure a tranquil atmosphere Arunika Restaurant features live cooking stations and an extensive array of local and international cuisines Located in an open-air structure facing the ocean it offers the perfect setting for all-day relaxation making it an ideal space to unwind with friends and family Enjoying an early breakfast at Arunika with a breathtaking sunrise view is just one of the unforgettable experiences at Meru Arunika will soon offer more healthy yet delicious menu options Also not to be missed is the Sutasoma Lounge This intimate space serves light bites and drinks and doubles as a library with curated books on Bali and Indonesia’s culture and history The Meru Sanur continues to develop additional facilities for guests to enjoy offering a peaceful ambiance that leaves guests feeling recharged themerusanur.com Owner: Injourney Hospitality - PT Hotel Indonesia Natour Deputy of Board Advisor: Kartika Wirdjoatmojo Design Coordinator: Gregorius Supie Yolodi Principal Architect: Gregorius Supie Yolodi M&E Consultant: PT Mitra Perdana Engineering Civil&Sructural Consultant: PT Anugrah Multi Cipta Karya Metro Rail Conference An impressive structure has emerged at remarkable speed in Karlskrona the NKT Tower 3 is the second tallest tower in Scandinavia a 542 HC-L 12/24 Litronic and a 258 HC-L 10/18 Fibre are a key part of this ambitious construction project The tower which is built by Skanska will be an integral part of the world’s largest high-voltage submarine cable factory which will supply wind turbines and solar parks with essential components the NKT Tower 3 is a feat of engineering.Liebherr Tower Crane Center an. The Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority (GCCIA) concluded its two-day regional forum held on April 29–30 “Empowering the Future Grid: Exploring the Application of Generative AI in GCC Power Systems,” which took place in Kuwait City The event brought together a distinguished group of global technology leaders and EPRI Gulf (Electric Power Research Institute) India’s only and the world’s largest integrated zinc producer sees early breakthrough in the research of next-generation zinc-based battery technologies The research targets delivering higher energy efficiency improved safety and longer operational life The company is pioneering emerging zinc battery technology to support the ongoing clean energy transition.Zinc has emerged as a powerful alternative to lithium owing to its abundance While the lithium market continues to face supply constraints and rising costs Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world Don't miss out on valuable insights and opportunities to connect with like minded professionals Construction World (CW) is India’s premier and largest circulated construction business magazine a technology-enabled digital mental health provider with a novel mind-body approach to mental healthcare is proud to announce the addition of Melissa Reilly former Chief Strategy Officer at Evernorth With her extensive experience in healthcare strategy Reilly will provide strategic counsel as Meru Health continues to expand its mission of delivering industry leading mental health outcomes with fast access Melissa Reilly has a distinguished career in the healthcare industry having served in key leadership roles at United Health and most recently at Evernorth where she played a pivotal role in shaping and implementing long-term strategies that drove growth Her expertise in navigating the complex healthcare landscape combined with a deep understanding of payer-provider relationships and digital health innovation will be instrumental in helping Meru Health scale its impact "We are thrilled to welcome Melissa Reilly to our advisory board," said Kristian Ranta "Her wealth of experience in healthcare strategy and her commitment to improving patient outcomes align perfectly with our vision of transforming the mental healthcare system Melissa's insights will be invaluable as we continue to expand our programs and improve access to mental health care." Meru Health has become a trusted provider in the mental health space offering evidence-based provider supported digital programs that combine therapy The company's approach has been clinically proven to reduce symptoms of depression and is designed to address the growing mental health crisis in a scalable "I am excited to join Meru Health's advisory board and support its mission to make mental health care more accessible and effective," said Melissa Reilly "The need for innovative solutions to address the mental health crisis has never been greater and I look forward to working with Meru Health to help expand its reach and continue delivering life-changing care to those in need." Reilly's addition to the advisory board underscores Meru Health's commitment to building a world-class team of advisors and experts dedicated to advancing mental health care innovation she will work closely with the company's leadership to enhance growth strategies and overall impact in the healthcare sector Media contact: [email protected] Do not sell or share my personal information: Mount Meru Regional Referral Hospital is committed to continuous improvement and adheres to the best possible practices in healthcare about how the facility focuses on providing a comfortable and safe environment to meet the needs of its patients Africa is facing a rapidly escalating demand for quality healthcare due to ongoing population growth and the high prevalence of both communicable and non-communicable diseases many African nations are now prioritising improvements in healthcare access coupled with the urgent need to combat disease has transformed the continent’s ever-expanding healthcare sector into a vital investment area the African healthcare industry is experiencing significant advancements with numerous countries fostering supportive environments for medical professionals positive trends in disease control are evident suggesting substantial future growth and impact in the crucial areas of disease prevention and management Playing an influential role in a pivotal time for the continent’s healthcare industry, and under the strong leadership of Tanzanian President, Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, facilities such as Mount Meru Regional Referral Hospital (Mount Meru) continue to go from strength to strength Dr Samia’s vision and unwavering commitment have ensured high-quality healthcare services through the allocation of significant funds to improve infrastructure “Her leadership has overseen a major transformation in healthcare provision nationwide, and Mount Meru is just one of the many beneficiaries,” shares Hospital Director, Alex Ernest when it was first opened as a treatment centre for World War I casualties The ground-breaking facility was originally divided into two sections with the opposing halves later merging to form one hospital which was officially opened in 1926 Adhering to the guiding principles of the Good Samaritan parable it has consistently provided healthcare services ever since persisting through the atrocities of World War II and emerging into independent ownership as a state-owned regional referral hospital it serves a catchment population exceeding two million across seven districts of the Arusha region of Tanzania Mount Meru offers extensive healthcare services to both local and international communities “Our services range from outpatient to inpatient care with a particular focus on emergency and critical care as well as diagnostic imaging and laboratory services,” Ernest informs “We are lucky to have an extensive range of specialists and superspecialists who enable us to provide high-quality healthcare in a calm and comforting environment,” he continues Strategically located in a city rich with tourist attractions and home to a plethora of regional and international organisations the hospital is ideally positioned to serve global communities in need of medical attention Equipped with state-of-the-art medical technologies Mount Meru features a well-equipped VIP lounge and wards staffed by skilled professionals providing first-class medical attention and procedures It additionally boasts advanced ambulance services enabling the hospital to offer both inpatient and outpatient care “We also provide outreach services to local communities far from the hospital Our well-equipped van allows us to reach even the most remote areas ensuring equitable medical care throughout the region,” Ernest outlines our hospital addresses the needs of the geriatric population by providing clinic services Mount Meru’s competitive advantage lies in the exceptional customer service provided by its dedicated who utilise robust treatment approaches supported by advanced internationally accredited laboratory tests and comprehensive imaging services we offer affordable services and generous exemption policies compliant with Ministry of Health guidelines and our serene environment contributes to a positive patient experience,” he prides Across the entire spectrum of its operations Mount Meru cultivates a secure and supportive work culture that promotes career advancement and development the hospital provides continuous weekly medical education and on-the-job training for employees complemented by long-term mentorship and positive reinforcement through monthly awards and certificates presented to its top performers including departmental vacation trips and annual events are designed to foster intrinsic motivation amongst our people,” he tells us With a new continuum of care on the horizon for Africa Mount Meru is aiming to concentrate its efforts on mitigating the alarming rise of non-communicable diseases “A comprehensive approach is necessary to address current trends Although our primary function is treatment and health education will also help to substantially reduce the disease burden,” Ernest reveals “We will continue to strengthen our outreach initiatives and allocate resources strategically towards preventive measures,” he affirms Mount Meru plans to transition from performing open surgeries to minimally invasive procedures within the next few years The hospital has completed construction of a new building that will serve as a dedicated theatre for these specific surgeries and is currently being fitted with the necessary equipment “We also aim to provide comprehensive cancer treatment services to optimise patient outcomes Construction of our chemotherapy clinic is underway and staff are currently undergoing training as we plan to launch this service by the end of May 2025.”  Mount Meru is prioritising the enhancement of its operational research capabilities in order to optimise treatment efficacy in the face of increasing drug resistance Ernest hopes this will be achieved through collaborative efforts with domestic and international research institutions “We invite collaboration with international institutions interested in joint research endeavours and are confident that this approach will yield superior results,” he concludes We use cookies to ensure your best experience on our website. If you continue using our website, we'll assume you agree to our cookie policy Elephant calf Meru loves to swim and spend time in the mud wallows Meru is being more intentional with her trunk using it to not only pick up food but to spray herself with water though she's interested in whatever the other elephants are eating as she likes to spend time with everyone in the herd Meru loves swimming and hanging in the mud wallows is learning 'ear' cues and has started to be more intentional with the way she uses her trunk “Are there any particularly cute moments with Meru that you’d like to share?” “She’s just cute always,” lead zookeeper Shelby Maerling said this time Elephant calf Meru was born at Reid Park Zoo, 3400 E. Zoo Court She joins allomother Lungile and big sisters Nandi and Penzi Maerling has been at Reid Park Zoo for the births of all three elephant calves becoming part of the team as an apprentice just one month before Nandi was born in 2014 She was there for the birth of Penzi in 2020 and now she’s watching 705-pound Meru grow up “I started off really wanting to be a veterinarian from as soon as I could talk,” Maerling says “I actually took horseback-riding lessons at the Phoenix Zoo and I said ‘You can come back in a few years and volunteer.’ Little kid Shelby took that very seriously.” she fell in love with the connection between animals and opted for a profession that wasn't as focused on the medical side of things “My favorite thing about the job is the relationship (you build) There’s so much trust there and we’re able to do incredible things with the animals It’s (through) positive reinforcement and it’s voluntary and they’re doing it because they have trust in you I think that’s so incredible with any animal you’re working with,” she says I think it’s incredible to be so close to them and watch people see them for the first time or the 100th time and be so amazed Keepers facilitate training sessions with each of the elephants Training allows staff to ensure the health and well-being of the elephants Meru was learning how to stand still and listen to cues in the event of blood draws which happen in the ear — the thinnest part of an elephant’s body and the easiest area to see the vein Blood draws can take the assistance of three people Keepers have worked with Meru to make sure she’s comfortable around multiple people “Her attention span has really increased and she has become way more focused on her training sessions,” Maerling says “She’s really quick to come over and engage with us She knows how to present her ear when we ask for her ear She lets us touch it and have multiple people around her ear and (she sees) that it’s not scary This particular training milestone is an important building block keepers might work with Meru on presenting her feet for routine pedicures But trainings are always tailored to the individual elephant so she’s learning a lot by watching Semba,” Maerling says naturally (Meru will) be doing the same things (as Semba) so you can take the opportunity to teach the behavior they’re already mimicking.” Because training is done through positive reinforcement we are even more dialed into what she thinks is the tastiest thing,” Maerling says “Grapes are really the tastiest thing in the whole wide world for her She is so invested in getting those grapes.” if keepers give her something that isn’t a grape Meru will drop the unwanted snack on the ground and put her trunk back out — patiently waiting for the fruit she actually wants “She thinks it should be grapes always,” Maerling says While Meru loves swimming and hanging in the mud wallows she's also become more interested in eating hay and anything else the other herd members are eating “She’s still nursing and she’ll continue to do so for likely a couple years but she’s showing a lot of interest in the grown-up foods,” Maerling says Meru's trunk was still operating as a floppy noodle and she’d face-plant into the food she wanted to eat “She got the motor control (of her trunk) down Now she’s got the appetite down,” Maerling says “Because she does have the motor control in her trunk now we’re seeing her be really intentional with her trunk — not just to drink water but throwing it on herself.” Elephants use water and mud to help cool off — mud also acts as insect repellant and sunscreen 10-year-old Nandi was completely enamored with Meru That wasn’t always the case for 4-year-old Penzi but she’s definitely warmed up to the big sister role “She definitely has some moments where she’s less than thrilled Meru is there but we do see her standing over Meru when she’s sleeping to make sure she’s OK,” Maerling says “I think every middle child can probably relate to having a little sister She’s doing great and we’re very happy with them everybody was in the wallow and there was a lot of trumpeting and running around and zoomies.” “Meru has so much enthusiasm for everything — she wants to play with every toy she wants to splash in the pool,” Maerling says Reid Park Zoo's 6-month-old elephant calf Meru reached a big milestone: she got into the grown-up pool, which goes as deep as 10 to 11 feet.  From the All Souls Procession to the Fourth Avenue Street Fair, fall festival season has returned to Tucson. This year’s monsoon in Tucson was split in two: An early, wet start and a dry, especially hot end.  The nine-day film festival at Tucson's The Loft Cinema will feature films like "Unstoppable" and "The Queen of My Dreams" from Oct. 16-24. What's going on in Tucson, Arizona this weekend: Halloween festivities, Marana fall fest, plant sales, Chappell Roan dance party and more in Tucson, Marana and Oro Valley. The Chinese Chorizo Festival has added new restaurants, art installations and cocktails to its long list of month-long celebrations. Fall 2024 has arrived and so have the plant sales. Find upcoming sales at the Desert Museum, Tohono Chul, Tucson Village Farm and more. By the end of the month, Tucson’s only Puerto Rican restaurant, Batey Puerto Rican Gastronomy, will hold its grand opening, serving up all the mofongo and plantains you can eat. Grab a pumpkin horchata or spooky gelato bites this Halloween season. The only thing scary about these treats is how scary good they are! Tucson elephant calf Meru warmly greeted her new herd member, is making lots of training progress and loves grapes. Meru has been nicknamed “Mountain Goat” because she loves to climb on balls and logs which protects an elephant’s skin from the sun and insects Semba and Meru walk through the habitat at Reid Park Zoo Paint sessions are a form of enrichment for the elephant herd at Tucson's Reid Park Zoo There’s a new artist in town — and she’s painting without a brush elephant calf Meru is officially Tucson’s newest Van Gogh creating abstract paintings with her adorable little trunk “Picasso would be proud,” says Reid Park Zoo elephant zookeeper Brooke Majkowicz The paint sessions are part of Meru’s enrichment and training sessions which are voluntary for the elephants and always done through positive reinforcement Trainings help staff evaluate the health and well-being of the elephants she blows bubbles into water — which the medical team can then test for viruses Staff will also gently place paint on Meru’s trunk which helps her become more familiar with her trunk being touched When staff first introduced paint for 815-pound Meru allowing her to splash around and play with the canvas if she cared to but it’s more about Meru’s enrichment and playtime than the artistry And Meru isn’t the only painter in the herd — all of the elephants are able to paint as a form of enrichment “It provides them more variability in their day,” she says “We’re able to take a breather from the denser side of training and just have fun.” If you’re interested in taking home one of the paintings the zoo's annual gala ZOOcson typically includes an auction featuring animal art each October “We’re at a stage now with Meru where we’re just finding what she’s finding fun and running with it,” Majkowicz says “We see what she explores every day and we mold that into what we can with her training sessions.” 4-year-old sister Penzi and allomother Lungile Reid Park Zoo also introduced to the herd 16-year-old male elephant Tsavo Tsavo’s move was made on a recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ African Elephant Species Survival Plan, mimicking the natural behavior of male elephants to move between herds in the wild. The last time Reid Park Zoo, 3400 E. Zoo Court Tsavo was introduced to the other elephants through two barriers Nandi and Penzi are big fans — on one occasion when Tsavo walked into the habitat the two sisters ran up to him and put their trunks in his mouth to say hello Tsavo is still interacting with both Semba and Meru Majkowicz expects the cable to come down soon “Meru is the bravest elephant I’ve ever experienced in my life,” Majkowicz says “She was the first one to say hello to Tsavo through the cables He’s been very sweet and gentle with her too.” Meru is enjoying grapes and oranges (though she just sucks the juice out and spits out the rest) along with climbing on everything she can possibly climb on “She’s very loyal to climbing,” Majkowicz says “We’ve given her the nickname ‘Mountain Goat’ since she was born You can see her climbing on every single log in the habitat and a lot of the time you can see her perched on one of her balls The ‘Mountain Goat’ name will probably stick forever.” Majkowicz loves watching Meru climb — especially when she lets her rear legs dangle as she attempts to wiggle over a log “She’s just thriving and she’s been very very active and has really found her voice,” Majkowicz says Majkowicz has been at Reid Park Zoo for the last two years She was previously a marine mammal trainer but made the switch to zoos specifically for elephants “It’s their intelligence and how when it comes to training their managed care is so progressive and constantly evolving there’s always something to learn about them,” Majkowicz says “I knew zookeeping was in the cards for me and as you get more experience under your belt They’re so smart and quirky and have so much personality.” We love the holidays almost as much as we love Tucson's makers. Gift something local this season! The Jewels of the Desert Horse Rescue and Sanctuary, located just outside Tucson in Three Points, has successfully rescued 20 horses and placed 14 in their forever homes so far. What's going on in Tucson, Arizona this weekend: holiday lights, Santa, snow, last-minute shopping, Taylor Swift laser shows and more in Tucson, Marana and Oro Valley. From strolling through the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and the Winterhaven Festival of Lights to eating dinner at The Coronet or Panda House, here's a list of places offering things to do and eat on Christmas Day in the Tucson area. Reid Park Zoo's baby elephant Meru is loving grapes, hay and sometimes elephant pellets.  Meru has proven to have a brave and bold personality All five of Reid Park Zoo’s elephants are pictured here Reid Park Zoo staff filled the elephant habitat pool all the way to the top and 6-month-old Meru got in for the first time Meru's favorite foods are diced fruits and veggies Although Meru still stays close to mom Semba she's been spending lots of time with allomother Lungile and sisters Nandi and Penzi Meru has expressed interest in other foods that the other elephants are eating but she'll likely continue to nurse for another couple years whether it’s splashing in the pool or flopping around in the mud wallows Reid Park Zoo's 6-month-old elephant calf Meru reached a big milestone: she got into the grown-up pool The 6-month-old elephant plays with the hose flops in the mud wallows and uses her trunk to suck water from the palms of her zoo staff’s hands staff filled the habitat’s pool all the way to the top "Elephant Meru made a huge splash for her first time in the pool this past week the youngest elephant of the herd practiced using her trunk to splash around with the herd," Reid Park Zoo wrote on Facebook “We monitored her for a week and we invited the ellies in and she started to swim right away and jumped right in,” says Reid Park Zoo elephant care specialist Mara Eisenbarth “We could see her actively doggy paddling.” “Meru has been showing more interest in being more bold and trying new things,” Eisenbarth says Meru was born on March 8 at Reid Park Zoo, 3400 E. Zoo Court The 655-pound elephant calf joined allomother Lungile and big sisters Nandi and Penzi “We talked with a lot of different institutions to see where the elephant community is on when they typically fill their pool for their little ones because Nandi was pretty interested in swimming early on she was pretty interested but maybe not as much as Meru,” Eisenbarth says “Penzi didn’t go in until her second birthday party (With Penzi,) we waited a little while for her before filling the pool up and then we realized she wouldn’t go in it anyway so we just filled it up.” Penzi loves the pool — so much so that she’s known to completely submerge herself in the water which is exactly what Meru learned when she was swimming with her sisters recently She accidentally swam right on top of Penzi not realizing her big sister was under the water excellent at communicating with one another “You can tell when Meru gets a little deeper (in the pool) than where she can stand,” Eisenbarth says but then there’s body language or silent communication when they decide playtime is over They all turn around and get out of the pool — and Meru will get out with them She’s very good at following directions like that.” Swimming and flopping around in the mud wallows are Meru’s favorite things to do both of which she’s been doing more with her sisters and Lungile “Meru is very curious and she’s also very social,” Eisenbarth says but she does pretty much always seek out one of her sisters and Lungile like she’ll see them if she has an itch she needs to scratch on her ear Meru has pretty much mastered her trunk at this point Her favorite snacks at the moment are diced fruits and veggies — they have to be diced She doesn’t like them in large chunks or pureed Meru was learning to stay still in the event of blood draws — a skill she’s gotten down pat Now she’s working with her trainers on cueing her ears which is when staff will tap her ear and say “ear.” Eventually she should feel and hear that cue and stick out her ear Blood draws typically happen in the ear because it’s the thinnest part of an elephant’s body and the easiest area to see the vein A blood draw may take the assistance of three people — trainers and whoever is drawing the blood — depending on the elephant some elephants’ may have ears with smaller veins so a second person might be needed to hold the ear for more support Staff are working to get Meru familiar with having three people around “We have the trainer working with her and maybe somebody else is by her hips We plan for more in case we need more,” Eisenbarth says “(All the elephants) react really differently to different ways of training We always say there’s a million ways to train the behavior.” Training sessions are voluntary for the elephants at Reid Park Zoo and done through positive reinforcement Training allows staff to check on the health and well-being of the elephants Meru is also learning to come when her name is called — though she might not fully know her name yet She might be trotting along simply because she hears some kind of call she knows it’s a package deal,” Eisenbarth says “She has always had a lot of personality but she plays really hard these days and she sleeps really hard staff were trying to do a training session with Semba and they called Meru’s name The calf was asleep in the barn and the most they could get out of her was a tiny ear wiggle Reid Park Zoo's elephant calf Meru is becoming more familiar with how to use her trunk. She's learning how to stand still for longer periods of time and loves to splash in the mud wallows. Beloved Tucson toy store Mildred & Dildred has survived the 2008 recession, the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of Amazon.  Literacy Connects' Reading Seed program is seeking 200 volunteers for this upcoming school year. Volunteers spend an average of 90 minutes per week reading for elementary school students. At Tucson’s newest hot dog stand, Nate Vincent serves up creative takes on the classic dish, featuring toppings like pulled pork and crispy onions or pineapple sauce and toasted coconut.  What's going on in Tucson, Arizona this weekend: night markets, plant sales, Oktoberfest, ghost tours, free live music and more in Tucson, Marana and Oro Valley. Tucson’s biggest vegan market makes its return on Sept. 28, featuring a lineup of 62 vendors with tasty treats, live music and tattoos. Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon We help you navigate a myriad of possibilities Sign up for our newsletter for the best of the city By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush) Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. Bali Sanur might not be the trendiest name on Bali’s map but this historic seaside town has long been a sanctuary for those seeking out some R&R home to Bali’s first hotel – the aptly named Bali Beach Hotel – which has remained the island’s tallest building since the 1960s when it was built before official rulings declared that no structure in Bali could be taller than a coconut tree Bali Beach Hotel has undergone a full glow-up and now has a younger sister: The Meru This five-star resort marks a new era of hospitality for Sanur which is part of Bali’s newly designated Special Economic Zone and will soon be home to an international hospital set to open in June 2025 and gorgeously designed architecture that prominently features local wood The experience is awe-inspiring from the moment you arrive naturally cooled to be two degrees lower than the outside air Statues of musicians playing classical Balinese instruments line the passageway before it opens into a grand lobby lounge where glossy slabs of dark marble contrast against woven rattan wall panels echoing the fishing nets that once dotted Sanur’s shores and every detail tells a rich story of Balinese heritage Custom-printed wallpaper showcases native flora and fauna– from the Bali starling and mahogany fruit to pandan and snake fruit Each suite also features a private terrace or balcony ensuring an intimate connection to the lush surroundings while spa-like bathrooms with rain showers and soaking tubs overlook either the beach or the gardens The Meru offers a unique proposition: seamless integration between five-star accommodation and healthcare catering to guests seeking both rejuvenation and medical treatments Holistic wellness is a key focus here – The Svasana Spa blends ancient Balinese healing rituals with modern spa therapies a deep-tissue treatment that melts away tension as well as the Sound Healing Therapy – where the calming vibrations of Tibetan bowls and other ancient instruments put you into a state of deep relaxation. Beyond that catering to those looking to balance relaxation with movement Breakfast is included and served at Arunika Restaurant Mornings here are particularly magical as you enjoy uninterrupted view of Sanur’s sunrise while sipping on coffee or juices The all-day menu celebrates the best of local and international cuisine including a wellness menu featuring health-conscious options take a short walk to Roso Restaurant for an Indonesian feast complete with a sambal platter and Balinese favorites like babi guling As Sanur evolves into a destination for wellness tourism offering a stay that is as luxurious as it is meaningful With a design philosophy that honours tradition while embracing modernity this resort is more than just a place to stay Bali’s golden age of hospitality began in Sanur it’s entering an exciting new chapter Located a quick 30-minute car ride away from I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport Sanur is an escape from Bali's notorious traffic jams thanks to its direct expressway access This family-friendly seaside town is packed with activities for all ages close-proximity to some of Bali's best dive sites as well as hands-on pottery sessions Kevala Studio where you can throw your own plates or paint on a bowl Sanur still retains is charm as a seaside town with eateries that have been serving locals and travellers alike a no-frills shack that's famous for its one-item menu: crispy fried catch-of-the-day served with rice and a spicy fish soup Don’t skip the sambal – it’s fiery The best way to experience Sanur is on two wheels The Meru offers complimentary bike rentals with a scenic coastal path that leads straight to the beach Ride along the shoreline and soak in the local atmosphere – you’ll pass street artists painting portraits Stop along the way for a fresh coconut or a Balinese-style iced coffee to fuel your ride Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon! About us Contact us Education News | The Leading Newspaper on Education News Education News is the leading newspaper on matters education in Kenya The fortnightly paper is widely read by teachers Meru Women Representative Elizabeth Kailemia has been the last hope to many of needy but bright students in Meru County who get both financial and counselling support from her foundation dubbed Kailemia Foundation While speaking in her office during the fourth mentoring where she celebrated form four leavers sponsored by Kailemia foundation and NGAAF she said her projects of empowering students from humble backgrounds by sponsoring their education is meant to give hope to many children from poor families The County MP also said that she always have  passion for educating children noting that she would not like to see any child at home due to lack of school fees The lawmaker said she started the program even before she became a legislator “I had a passion for educating children I would not like to see any child at home due to lack of school fees That is why I started Kailemia Foundation to sponsor students in primary and secondary schools,” she said She said she mostly sponsors secondary school students but are forced to chip in on needy cases in primary schools Dr. Nancy Macharia: A Checkered Legacy “There was one who was selling fruits in Maua town where i had to take her to a boarding school because he was an orphan,” said Kailemia She said she concentrates more on students from Meru noting currently they have 600 scholarships from form one to form four while others are in universities and technical schools The legislator said the 31 students that had benefited from the program will be advised on how to choose their careers “They need to be guided on how to choose their careers and also fill in their KUCCPS I urge them to avoid peer pressure and perform well,” she said She noted that she decided to take the 31 to university and technical schools to ensure that they fully benefited “Even if it is looking for jobs for them I am willing to help them to ensure they have fully benefited from me because I am also a parent,” she said a guidance and counselling teacher at Kirigara girls said they were guiding students on skilled courses that they can undertake She said the graduates don’t need to be employed after the courses because they can be self employed by starting their own businesses Mwakazi Murithi a student from Burieruri High school said the mentorship will help him to focus on his education >>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories  >>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape You must be logged in to post a comment the commercial brand for Hotel Indonesia Natour and part of the InJourney Group manages a network of hotels across Indonesia Christine Hutabarat spearheaded the establishment of The Meru Sanur part of the Sanur Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Indonesia Design spoke with Christine about the project and its future development STORY BY Vira TankaPHOTOS BY InJourney Hospitality Tell us the vision that InJourney Hospitality has for The Meru Sanur and how you’re going to achieve it The Meru Sanur aspires to be Bali’s premier destination inspiring authentic cultural immersion and holistic well-being with wellness experiences rooted in Balinese traditions In an age where the essence of travel is evolving towards rejuvenation and restoration it recognizes the vital importance of positioning itself as a wellness-driven establishment We make sure that the principle of wellness is intrinsic to the brand at every aspect and every level This commitment is what sets The Meru Sanur apart from other establishments The Meru Sanur actively seeks out professionals and collaborators who align with its core values making sure we everyone works in a seamless synergy that spans the entire spectrum of services from the hotels and resorts to the spa and MICE facilities It is a commitment to a transformative journey that begins with the individual and resonates throughout every aspect of The Meru experience What is your involvement in the planning and development of The Meru Sanur I am deeply involved in all aspects of The Meru Sanur’s development from strategic vision and design to operational oversight My role includes collaborating with stakeholders to ensure the project reflects Bali’s cultural heritage and adheres to environmentally friendly practices all while meeting global healthcare standards we seek to create a sustainable health tourism ecosystem that enhances Indonesia’s global reputation and economic growth Who are the target markets for The Sanur and The Meru Sanur the primary market includes Indonesians who travel abroad for medical care alongside international visitors from Australia The Meru Sanur specifically targets luxury travellers and high-end travellers seeking a high-quality experience that blends modern luxury with Sanur’s cultural heritage Its focus on international standards and local wisdom makes it an attractive choice for discerning guests What new facilities are planned for The Meru Sanur Future developments include enhanced Spa & Wellness facilities tailored for patients recovering from medical treatments These additions will integrate harmoniously with the ethnomedicinal botanical garden creating a tranquil and holistic environment for healing and relaxation What role does The Meru Sanur play in achieving the goals of The Sanur The Meru Sanur and the Bali Beach Hotel are key components of The Sanur SEZ They provide integrated five-star accommodations that complement the healthcare facilities with its ocean- view rooms and an Olympic-sized pool is Bali’s tallest hotel and includes a convention centre that accommodates up to 5,000 guests The Meru Sanur offers 184 suite-style rooms in a luxurious These facilities align with the SEZ’s vision by enhancing its appeal to domestic and international tourists Great news – new cubs have been spotted in our homeland of Meru what happened when two adult males appeared is where Elsa the lioness was returned to the wild in the 1950s Born Free has been working hard there for over ten years to help Kenya Wildlife Service keep lions safe We’re so grateful for your support of this vital conservation effort spotting lions in the vast landscape is no easy feat The golden vegetation cover overlaps each other This makes it even more difficult for Born Free’s devoted Pride of Meru team to monitor them – they have to work hard for each sighting spotting little cubs in this landscape is even harder a lioness keeps her young cubs hidden to help protect them from predators cubs are old enough to start emerging from hiding Which is why it’s such a privilege to read Pride of Meru’s Field Assistant Moses Nyagah’s account of an amazing recent encounter the Pride of Meru lion monitoring team set out early one morning We had a particular mission for the day: to search and find the Bisanadi Pride – one of Meru National Park’s most iconic lion families Our team has been proudly monitoring the Bisanadi Pride for over ten years following their journey through life’s triumphs as well as inevitable trials and tribulations the pride is made up of five adult females: Amani We helped treat her wounds when she was found injured – probably from a buffalo kick – in 2023 with their juvenile offspring include Chiokaraine as well as two others who are yet to be named and two mighty adult males: Faris and Farid Faris and Farid have been the dominant males in both Bisanadi and Mulika prides since 2021 we made our way along Murera River in NE Meru we were delighted to spot several lion footprints among them were spoor (tracks) of cubs less than one year old the tracking team started following the trail of tracks some of the group taking vantage point on the roof of our vehicle We painstakingly did our best to scan through the thick bushes thickets and tall grasses hoping to glimpse these elusive apex predators while other team members paid attention to the spoors’ direction this is extremely hard work and requires a lot of patience we saw movement from under the tall grasses Our hopes to be dashed as a flock of yellow-necked spurfowls appeared – who are part of the same bird family as pheasants were spotted on the other side of the vehicle in the open bush no sooner had our camera clicked to get shots of the cubs The wonderful sighting sparked so many discussions among our monitoring team who interestingly established themselves in Meru National Park after being moved here in 2020 from Solio (an area west of Meru) they’ve quickly become a force to be reckoned with We were surprised to see the two males so close to the cubs our team watched closely to see their behaviour and what would happen next a soft grunting sound of a lioness was heard and as we watched she appeared on the road knowledgeable team quickly identified the lioness as Amani she’s an integral part of the Bisanadi pride Amani led the vulnerable cubs straight towards Faris and Farid male lions can often pose a big risk to young cubs who are not their own seeing the two males and three cubs in the same area left us holding our breath They then joined together to walk down the road it wasn’t ‘just’ an extraordinary encounter for us It was also a profound opportunity to understand more about the elaborate social structure of these majestic creatures Seeing two males in the presence of cubs is a rare sight With the help of our wonderful tourist guides who support our work by participating in our ‘citizen science initiative’ our Pride of Meru monitoring team is able to track the growth of Amani’s cubs The most recent sighting was made recently by one of the key tour guides from Elsa Kopje hotel he kindly sent over photos (see right) and a short video of the cubs and their mother The life of a lion cub can be precarious and not all make it But we were so relieved to see that all three cubs looked healthy and were growing well Sightings like this are completely inspiring both within Meru National Park and outside in the community lands we can continue to protect lions and cubs like Amani’s contributing to the incredible recovery of Kenya’s lion population – up 25% since our lion conservation work began in 2010 PRIDE OF MERU: FIND OUT MORE The awe-inspiring film examines the 2011 first ascent of a new route up a 4,000-foot wall known as the Shark's Fin located on the northeast side of Meru Peak in the Indian Himalayas This ascent was preceded by a failed attempt in 2008 by the same climbing team of Conrad Anker Jimmy Chin and Renan Ozturk – all featured in Meru which covers both the 2008 and 2011expeditions is awesome – displaying complex and elite climbing skills Jimmy Chin comments on balancing climbing and filmmaking in extreme conditions: "You know I'm always thinking about the safety of myself and the team And I make that evaluation before I take the camera out." I have watched this documentary over five times and will do so again before any major climb - very inspiring Considered by many to be the ultimate prize in Himalayan big-wall climbing this hugely technical face has seen more failed attempts by elite teams over the past 30 years than any other climb in the region For 19 days we battled sub-zero temperatures withstood a huge storm while pinned to the smooth granite wall in a portaledge and survived on only seven days’ worth of food We were beaten back by the conditions just 300 feet below the summit on and off one of the world’s most challenging mountains.” Meru Awards and Recognition                                             Winner Sundance Film Festival 2015 – Audience Award DocumentaryOfficial Selection True/False Film FestivalOfficial Selection Nashville Film FestivalOfficial Selection Telluride Mountainfilm 2015Winner Telluride Mountainfilm 2015 – Charlie Fowler AwardOfficial Selection San Francisco International Film Festival Meru / Jimmy ChinJimmy Chin is an Asian American elite athlete, known for his mountaineering prowess, and accomplishments throughout the world. In 2006 he achieved the first successful American ski descent from the summit of Mount Everest with Kit and Rob DesLauriers. Jimmy has been a professional climber and skier on The North Face Athlete team for over 20 years Chin is the ultimate adventurer and artist – combining the worlds of mountaineering Jimmy has worked with some of the greatest adventure athletes and explorers in the world – including his team on Meru Jimmy co-directs with his wife Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi. Their documentary Free Solo won an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, a BAFTA and seven Primetime Emmy’s.  Free Solo had the highest grossing opening weekend in history for a documentary. Jimmy and Chai’s latest documentary, The Rescue, chronicles the daring rescue of 12 boys and their coach from a cave in Thailand. The Rescue has won numerous awards including the People’s Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival. The content on this site is for entertainment and educational purposes only Betting and gambling content is intended for individuals 21+ and is based on individual commentators' opinions and not that of Sports Illustrated or its affiliates All picks and predictions are suggestions only and not a guarantee of success or profit If you or someone you know has a gambling problem crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER Tuesday | May 06 2025 | has been appointed as the co-founder and CEO of Meru Life.Karkare co-founded Social Wavelength in 2009; shortly before the agency's fifth anniversary which subsequently changed its name to Mirum India Karkare has been crucial to the company's development over the years steering it through significant turning points and assisting in establishing its standing in the digital marketing sector.Karkare began as an EVP and co-founder before being elevated to Managing Director in February 2024 and established enduring connections within the sector during his time there.Additionally he was employed at e-Emphasys Technologies as an associate software engineer Subscribe to our newsletter to get updates on our latest news Two adventurous Belizean women from Dangriga have made history by completing the first leg of their climb up Mount Meru in Tanzania Stacy Webber and Judie Zab proudly represented Belize by leaving their flag at the summit of Africa’s fifth-highest mountain “The dream of visiting Africa and climbing Mount Meru (16,000 ft) became a reality and the feeling of accomplishment is indescribable.” “Proud to say we are here experiencing a dream to a reality… so far being here 5 days no one knows Belize… seems we are gonna be the first 2 females from our little jewel to make this accomplishment.” features two main peaks: Meru Summit and Ash Cone The climb typically takes 3 to 4 days via the Momela Route and requires proper acclimatization It is also a sacred site for the local Waarusha people who make annual sacrifices to the mountain for rain Ⓒ document.write(new Date().getFullYear()) Great Belize Productions Ltd. | Website Development by Idealab Studios Digital Marketing Meru Women Representative Elizabeth Kailemia has said her projects to empower students from humble backgrounds by sponsoring their education will give hope to many children from low-income families Kailemia said she always had a passion for educating children noting that she would not like to see any child at home due to the lack of school fees She spoke at her office during the fourth mentoring celebrating the Form Four leavers sponsored by the Kailemia Foundation and NGAAF I would not like to see any child at home due to a lack of school fees That is why I started the Kailemia Foundation to sponsor students in primary and secondary schools,” she said She said she mostly sponsors secondary school students but is forced to chip in on needy cases in primary schools Milestone as West Pokot teachers undergo CBE retooling at Nasokol Girls High “There was one who was selling fruits in Maua town where I had to take her to a boarding school because he was an orphan,” said Kailemia She said she concentrates more on students from Meru there are 600 scholarships from Form One to Form Four while others are in universities and technical schools The legislator said the 31 students who had benefited from the program will be advised on how to choose their careers “They need to be guided on how to choose their careers and fill in their KUCCPS I ask them to avoid peer pressure and perform well,” she said She said she decided to take the 31 to university and technical schools to ensure they fully benefited a guidance and counselling teacher at Kirigara Girls said they were guiding students on skilled courses they could undertake She said the graduates don’t need to be employed after the courses because they can start their businesses and be self-employed said the mentorship will help him to focus on his education >>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories  >>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape You must be logged in to post a comment The Holy Father Pope Francis has appointed Rev as the Coadjutor Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Meru The bishop-Elect is a member of the Congregation of the Consolata Missionaries Murugara’s appointment was officially published in L’Osservatore Romano in Rome on 16th January 2025 at 12:00 pm Rome time and 2:00 pm Kenyan time Murugara was officially communicated to Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) by Archbishop Bert Van Megan the Apostolic Nuncio in Kenya Bishop-Elect Murugara served as a priest at Consolata Shrine and offers support until the resignation or retirement or upon the death of the current bishop Bishop-elect Jackson Murugara was born in 1970 in Kamanyaki  His philosophical and Religious formation was from 1993 to 1996 at Consolata Philosophicum where he graduated with a degree in Philosophy and Religious Studies from the Pontifical Urbanian University in Rome His spiritual journey deepened during his novitiate at Sagana (1996-1997) culminating in his first religious vows in 1997 he studied Theology at the Missionary Institute of London affiliated with Middlesex University and made his final religious profession on 18th November 2000 and his ordination to the diaconate the following day He was ordained a priest on 15th August 2001 at Matiri Parish in the Diocese of Meru he served in various parishes including Kagaene Parish (October 2001–March 2002) and Chiga Parish in the Archdiocese of Kisumu (November 2002–July 2003) he served as a formator for postulants at the Consolata Seminary earning a Licentiate in Spirituality from Teresianum University in Rome he served at Bethany House in Sagana from 2011 to 2018 and managed a charity home for elderly women Upon his appointment he has been serving at Consolata Shrine in Westlands 10 most beautiful red coloured flowers that grow in summer How to make high-protein Soyabean and Paneer Pulao in a pressure cooker ​In pics: Elegant looks of actress Fouzee​ 10 must-visit UNESCO Heritage sites in Europe for history lovers Top 8 elephant safari destinations in India Ambedkar Jayanti 2025: 8 must-read books by Babasaheb Ambedkar How to use Raisin water to increase hair growth Our Privacy Policy has been revised. Please review updated ';P+='Privacy Policy Here';P+=' CommentsFilm Director Ronak Sing and Expedition Leader Umesh Zirpe at the film screening at Torello, Spain Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro 10% discount when you renew your car insurance Compare prices between different insurer providers and use the promo code 'PAULTAN10' when you make your payment to save the most on your car insurance renewal compared to other competing services Install 1 DC and 2 AC need launching karipap ceremony You can either post as a guest or have an option to register. Among the advantages of registering is once a name has been registered, a guest cannot post using that name. If you have an account, please login before commenting. If you wish to have a profile photo next to your name, register at Gravatar using the same e-mail address you use to comment Copyright © 2025 Driven Communications Sdn Bank AL Habib to Shut Down Operations in Kenya Google Prepares Early Release of Android 16 with Sleek UI and Smarter Performance Enhancements CS Wandayi Pledges Support for LPG Sector Expansion to Drive Jobs and Economic Development MKU Pushes for Global Recognition Through Research, Grants and AI Talent Gaming Operators Criticize Government’s Blanket Ban on Gambling Ads, Call for Dialogue Draft Finance Bill 2025 Proposes Withholding Tax for Foreign Suppliers and Scrap Metal Dealers One in Ten Kenyan Women Still Use Harmful Methods to End Pregnancies, New Report Reveals Western MPs Rally Support for NG-CDF and NGAAF Ahead of Public Participation Kenyan Filmmakers Linked to BBC Documentary Blood Parliament Released After Arrest Pressure to Have Smaller Families Drives High Abortion Rates Among Married Women in Kenya-Report Ledger Adds New Stablecoin Yield Functionality Dubai Drone Show Stuns as TOKEN2049 Champions TON & Telegram Crypto Adoption EU Data Protection Watchdog Fines TikTok €530 Million for Data Transfers to China African Healthtech Startups Get $225K Boost from i3 to Revolutionize Access Kenya Eyes $4.5 Billion Fodder Investment to Fix Feed Crisis Patrick Matasi Suspended for 90 Days Over Match Fixing Allegations Harambee Stars Fall to Gabon in Front of Sold-Out Nyayo Crowd Elfyn Evans Clinches Safari Rally 2025, Toyota Extends Winning Streak KeNHA’s Traffic Hack: Best Routes to Avoid WRC Safari Rally Jams WRC Safari Rally 2025 Roars to Life as President Ruto Flags Off Event Who Was Charles Were? Kenya Mourns a Fearless Son of Kasipul Witchcraft Joke Backfires: Jalang’o Faces Sh105M ‘Fine’ From Kisii Elders Edward Kwach: Radio’s Unforgettable Voice of Power Papal Diary: Step By Step into Daily Routine of Late Pope Francis Explainer: What Happens After Pope’s Death, Election of Successor The Pope Who Chose People Over Protocol Why Empty Speeches Won’t Build Kenya, Africa’s Future- Doanh Chau Echoes of War: Beyond the School Walls Real and Fake Personalities of Employees in the Workplace NAIROBI, Kenya – In a bid to maintain unity within Meru County, President William Ruto held a consultative meeting at State House with key political figures from the region The discussions were centered on critical issues such as infrastructure development Ruto emphasized the importance of constant dialogue and unity among leaders stating that a common vision is essential for meeting the needs of citizens and promoting national development The meeting came just days after former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi led a significant delegation from Meru in officially aligning with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua Linturi’s defection to Gachagua’s camp could undermine the efforts of Deputy President Kithure Kindiki to consolidate his influence in the region had previously expressed hopes of including Linturi and former Meru Governor Peter Munya in a broad-based government announced on April 23 that he intends to focus on reclaiming the Meru gubernatorial seat in the upcoming 2027 elections He dismissed any speculation about government appointments and reiterated that his only political ambition is the Meru governorship Munya’s decision leaves the region’s political future uncertain as it remains unclear whether he will ally with Gachagua or remain within the Kenya Kwanza fold has further complicated the political landscape in Mt where factions within the ruling coalition are now grappling for control ahead of the 2027 elections President Ruto’s meeting with Meru leaders highlights the ongoing challenges in maintaining unity within the Mt as shifting allegiances and political maneuvering take center stage in the run-up to the next general elections Δdocument.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()) we're reshaping storytelling in the digital era engaging content resonates with readers interested in understanding and connecting with global issues and innovations Welcome to the official Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) News YouTube channel Hewani Energy is investing USD 250 million (approximately Ksh 33 billion) in a landmark renewable energy project in Kandebene Sub-Location is expected to generate 220 megawatts of power which is part of the state BottomUp Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) and universal electricity access to rural areas for economic growth was among several major initiatives launched recently by President William Ruto during his development tour of the Mt investors and local residents visited the site to assess progress and sensitise the community on the project’s benefits Tigania West Deputy County Commissioner Faith Murage said the government was committed to supporting green energy initiatives under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda She emphasised that ongoing community sensitisation would ensure residents fully understand the project’s scope and long-term benefits Meru County Investment and Development Corporation Director Winnie Mukiri stated that the county held a five per cent stake in the project with the potential to scale up to 20 per cent She added that legal teams had reviewed the agreements between Hewani Energy and landowners According to Hewani Energy’s Economic Development Manager Victor Mutuerandu the hybrid facility will harness 200 megawatts from wind turbines and 20 megawatts from solar photovoltaic systems spread across 100 acres The energy will be stored in a 10 MWh battery and transmitted to the national grid via the Isiolo Sub-Station Mutuerandu revealed that 32 wind turbines will be installed and the company already holds environmental approvals from both the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority He noted that community involvement had been integral to the project with over 1,800 option and license agreements signed with 2,000 local landowners He added that the company supported the community in acquiring land ownership documents which were issued around the time of the presidential visit Hewani Energy is set to enter into long-term leases of 20–30 years with the landowners depending on the power purchase agreement secured Mutuerandu stated that landowners hosting turbines will earn a minimum of Ksh 200,000 annually while others will receive between Ksh 10,000 and Ksh 20,000 per acre per year 1.5 per cent of gross revenue from electricity sales will go to landowners and 0.5 per cent will be channelled into a community trust focusing on education He clarified that the area designated for the project is uninhabited or shrines and home to no critically endangered species Mutuerandu assured that robust grievance mechanisms were in place and that the company maintained an open-door policy for resolving community concerns said the project had accelerated access to land titles a long-standing challenge for many in the area a South African renewable energy firm with a 75 per cent stake Hewani Energy has been active in developing wind and solar projects across East Africa Information You Can Trust: Stay instantly connected with breaking stories and live updates From politics and technology to entertainment and beyond we provide real-time coverage you can rely on making us your dependable source for 24/7 news A screengrab of former Agriculture CS Peter Munya speaking during a PNU meeting on Wednesday who has held the position of Deputy Governor of Meru County since 2022 has officially been sworn in as the new governor This follows the Senate’s impeachment of Governor Kawira Mwangaza in 2024 a decision that was upheld by the court on March 14 The swearing-in ceremony took place on Monday at Mwendantu Grounds in Meru County with notable leaders from both inside and outside the county attending the event With the county having faced numerous challenges since Mwangaza’s election in 2022 Meru leaders are now calling on Mutuma to focus on uniting the people of Meru The political unrest and division have been ongoing and unifying the county is considered the new governor’s primary responsibility Majority Whip Jim Muchui commented earlier that the Ameru people have endured instability due to the lack of strong leadership Mutuma is expected to play a key role in mending the relationship between the County Assembly and the Executive “For the last two years Meru has been divided His first responsibility is to see how he can unite the people of Meru and the leadership,” Muchui said He also stressed the urgent need for the new governor to act quickly in submitting the supplementary budget to the Assembly “We also expect the Governor to immediately submit the supplementary budget in the Assembly because there is an itemized budget we did and the former governor blatantly refused to implement,” Muchui added Governor Mwangaza’s impeachment came after a motion was introduced in the Senate on August 21 where 26 senators voted in favor of her removal citing gross misconduct and violations of the constitution and other laws This impeachment marked the third attempt to remove Mwangaza from office signaling the persistent unrest in the county’s leadership We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze how you use this website and provide the content and advertisements that are relevant to you These cookies will only be stored in your browser with your prior consent You can choose to enable or disable some or all of these cookies but disabling some of them may affect your browsing experience Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns and Meru County in Kenya signed a memorandum of understanding today (March 2) in a ceremony in Kenya to formally commence their new partnership This collaboration also will involve the Technical University of Denmark An MOU is a formal agreement between two parties to collaborate on mutually beneficial projects coli Reference Center and professor of food science said the partnership will focus on working with collaborators in Kenya to provide solutions to important issues they have identified including food safety and public health problems that easily could affect the rest of the world “What’s particularly exciting about this partnership is that the foundational research ideas were conceived by members of Meru University,” Dudley said “These three topics align extremely well with the strengths and interests of faculty in the College of Agricultural Sciences here at Penn State.” He said the three main research topics are foodborne pathogens especially those found in meat and milk products; zoonotic diseases in Meru; and food quality and safety of meat and milk products assistant professor of food animal microbiomes said foodborne diseases are responsible for a significant proportion of illness and death worldwide norovirus and Campylobacter responsible for many of them Researchers will collaborate to examine the incidence of and risk factors for infections associated with consumption of meat and milk products in Meru as well as the most common products associated with foodborne infections and potential points of contamination of milk and meat an increase of human-animal interactions can boost the risk of infectious diseases spreading from animals to humans making it vital to evaluate to what extent these interactions are causing disease in Meru “Foodborne pathogens likely cause considerable disease in Meru County but there is limited understanding of specific microbial causes treatment outcomes and health care costs,” Ganda said “As an agricultural community bordered by areas teeming with wildlife zoonotic diseases of animal origin are also an important consideration particularly in the context of climate change.” said she will help with the third focus of the collaboration which is assessing food quality and food safety of milk products in Meru Researchers will analyze safety practices regarding milk and meat products among farmers as well as the distribution of different types of pathogens that are found in milk and meat products They also will explore factors contributing to antimicrobial resistance in pathogens found in these products “I have provided technical support on dairy food manufacturing and food safety to the dairy industry domestically and internationally,” Kaylegian said “I’ve worked on similar projects in Nepal and Ethiopia and am looking forward to seeing how I can apply these skills to what is needed by the Kenya dairy foods industry.” Ganda said they are also part of a collaboration with Elizabeth Ransom associate professor of international affairs at Penn State investigating the social aspects of antimicrobial resistance domestically and internationally the collaboration came about two years ago when Nkuchia M’ikanatha an affiliate faculty member in the Department of Food Science at Penn State M’ikanatha said he had several conversations with Meru residents who requested help understanding whether unexplained local illnesses were associated with food a similar request came from a Meru farmer who wondered whether food handling after food spoilage and a lack of distribution methods were contributing to food insecurity in the area Penn State faculty members agreed to join the partnership if their collaborators at Meru University took the lead in suggesting research based on an assessment of what Meru residents wanted Additional collaborators from the College of Medicine and the College of Engineering at Penn State and the Technical University of Denmark eventually joined the discussions Dudley said the partnership also will have a mentoring aspect with faculty from Penn State providing training and professional development for the faculty in Meru “Two examples already underway is that one of our collaborators is designing a workshop about writing abstracts for scientific meetings,” Dudley said “I’m also looking forward to research collaborations in food safety and helping Meru University faculty increase their output of peer-reviewed papers and abstract presentations.” Ganda also provided a two-day workshop on molecular methods for pathogen detection from DNA extraction through sequencing saying she took the opportunity of the trip to Kenya for the MOU signing ceremony to start having an impact in the Meru community “When I saw the Meru initiative developing I realized it would be beneficial to have something concrete come out of it beyond the MOU,” Ganda said “We were able to coordinate with colleagues at Meru University and the dairy farmer community to collect environmental samples and administer surveys on management practices I then worked with the Meru team and taught them how to process the samples This will be a first key outcome of this budding collaboration.” students at Penn State will collaborate with students at the Kenyan university — an opportunity M’ikanatha said will allow students to gain key insights they wouldn’t otherwise be exposed to “When two students from different continents have the chance to collaborate they bring different viewpoints and experiences to the table,” M’ikanatha said “This makes their training and education so much more robust and oftentimes leads to a solution they normally wouldn’t arrive at otherwise.” File image of Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza China Reaffirm Commitment to Infrastructure and Transport Cooperation Cardinal Njue to Miss Papal Conclave Due to Health Reasons Cardinals hold final pre-conclave session ahead of vote to elect new Pope World’s Most Secretive Election: How the Next Pope Will Be Chosen on Wednesday Global Airlines Reroute Flights to Avoid Pakistani Airspace Amid Tensions Media as the Bridge of Civilizations: A Global Call for Integrity and Cooperation Kenya-China: A Bold Blueprint for a Shared Future HESBON OWILA: Kenya Kwanza’s Dwindling Promise — and a Thin Thread of Hope Safeguarding Lives and the Economy: Why Product Integrity Must Be a National Priority Uganda sign historic MoU to protect Mt Elgon biosphere reserve Climate change threat to Kenya’s national security CS Duale Urges Corporate Sector to Support Ecosystem Protection Emissions from building sector stopped rising for the first time since 2020 Greenpeace Africa Slams Kenya Forest Service for Downplaying Forest Threats Kenya to open consulate in Haiti to support peace mission Kindiki in Uganda for Extraordinary Summit on Somalia Peace Mission Wetang’ula to represent Kenya at Pope Francis’ funeral in Vatican President Ruto lands in Beijing ahead of 3-day State Visit Chinese enterprises in Kenya lead green growth Over 50,000 in China’s Hainan evacuated as Typhoon Trami grows – China Daily Over 60% of China’s population proficient in primary or higher digital skills – China Daily China urges US to cease arming Taiwan: FM spokesperson – China Daily 5.5-magnitude quake hits China’s Xinjiang: CENC – China Daily who served as Deputy Governor after winning the 2022 election on an independent ticket with Mwangaza now assumes leadership of a politically tense Meru County Mar 17 – Isaac Mutuma has been sworn in as Meru Governor after the High Court upheld the Senate’s decision to impeach Kawira Mwangaza Leaders and residents from across the county gathered at Mwendantu Grounds in Meru Town to witness the swearing-in ceremony Supporters and officials sang and celebrated voicing their confidence in Mutuma’s leadership Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp The county’s Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) have already filed impeachment and censure motions against eight County Executive Committee Members (CECMs who served under Mwangaza Former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi has backed Mutuma’s leadership Mutuma M’Ethingia will rebuild the fallen walls of Meru just like Nehemiah rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem in the Bible I urge fellow leaders in Meru County to support him in his quest to make Meru great again Meru is bigger than all of us,” Murungi said in a statement on Monday Mutuma’s swearing-in follows a prolonged leadership battle that culminated in Mwangaza’s removal High Court Judge Bahati Mwamuye dismissed a petition challenging her impeachment ruling that it failed to meet the legal threshold to overturn the Senate’s decision “The court has assessed the totality of the impeachment process and found that she was given ample opportunity to present her case and respond to allegations leveled against her,” Mwamuye ruled further rejecting her plea to invalidate the gazette notice confirming her removal Mwangaza’s ouster was finalized on August 21 when 26 senators voted to remove her from office on charges of gross misconduct and violation of the Constitution This marked the third impeachment motion against Mwangaza to reach the Senate all eyes are on Mutuma as he steps into leadership tasked with unifying a divided county and steering Meru forward Four police officers were on Monday formally charged before the High Court in Milimani with multiple counts of crimes against humanity Of the 111 individuals shortlisted for Member positions following the withdrawal of four candidates for personal reasons China has played a pivotal role in Kenya’s infrastructure development over the years financing and constructing major projects such as roads Archbishop Philip Anyolo clarified that although Cardinal Njue is eligible and was officially invited through the Apostolic Nunciature in Kenya The bus was escorted to Kanyonyoo Police Station May 6 – President William Ruto has received the report on the recruitment of nominees for the positions of Chairperson and Members.. May 6—NAIROBI — The newly-formed National Government Administration Police Unit (NGAPU) is now fully operational following the appointment of Charles Mutuma as.. Kenya News Agency Micro and Small Enterprise Authority (MSEA) on Tuesday held a sensitization and machine issuance session in South Imenti as part of the Mashinani outreach programme on empowering Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) in the Constituency The event which saw several groups issued with various machines meant to empower them economically was officiated by MSEA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr Henry Rithaa in collaboration with the Office of the South Imenti Constituency MP Dr Shadrack Mwiti “We are here because we have a deliberate strategy to ensure that we implement the bottom-up economic transformation agenda in the practical sense in that what matters is that the small enterprise sector succeed,” said Rithaa “That farmer in milk production is able to take milk produced cost effectively take their milk to the market and be able to have money in their pockets,” he added He said they were sensitizing small enterprises country to make them aware of what the government is doing through MSEA including NYOTA and KJET projects that the Government has funded to the tune of more than Sh150billion to be implemented by various partners to support the youth and the small business sector NYOTA targets youth between 18-29 years and persons with disability up to 35 years providing well-structured capacity building and training them on how to make their business work within the fields they have chosen to create employment from the youth Rithaa disclosed that the NYOTA project is targeting at least 110,000 youths each getting Sh50,000 The event was also graced by the Presidential Economic Transformation Secretariat led by the Technical Lead on MSMEs Mr Charles Kemboi and Advisors on Gender and MSMEs Ms emphasizing that the government is making enterprise empowerment a reality Kemboi noted that the Authority is setting MSEs on a path towards sustainable growth and job creation through upscaling common user machinery marketing and financial linkages to unlock challenges and bottlenecks that hinder their meaningful participation in the economy Director Business Development Marketing and Trade Dr Caroline Kaua noted that the initiative was part of MSEA’s broader mandate to enhance the productivity and sustainability of MSEs across the country Deputy Coordinators for both National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) and Kenya Jobs and Economic Transformation (KJET) projects took the MSEs participants present through the application process and benefits of the projects Meru County’s Sports Youth Affairs Gender and Social Development Executive Member Mr Elias Murega said young people have been facing various challenges but the county government is looking forward to partnering with the national government in order to come up with ways of empowering them “The county’s ongoing partnership with MSEA to provide technical training and linkages to financing for local entrepreneurs is a worthy cause and we will upscale it to ensure all our youths have been reached wherever they are,” said Murega 22 Associations from the 6 wards in the constituency were issued with sector-specific machinery namely; woodwork combination carwash and diagnostic equipment and salon and beauty equipment and increase market competitiveness for these Associations MSEA is enhancing the productivity and competitiveness of MSEs through equipping them with essential machinery to promote innovation and help these enterprises transition from subsistence-level operations to profitable Present during the event were Meru County Commissioner Mr Women Enterprise Fund and representatives from the County and National government You must be logged in to post a comment Kenya Broadcasting Corporation MyGov Kenya National Archives Kenya Yearbook Editorial Board Kenya Institute of Mass Communication Media Council of Kenya eCitizen – Gateway to All Government Services How to make payments to the Directorate of Information County Focus, March, 2025. Mawasiliano, March, 2025. Sauti Ya Kericho, January, 2025. Maarifa, January, 2025. NGAO, February, 2025. THE EYE, February, 2025. Nyota Ya Mashariki, March , 2025. Nyota Ya Magharibi, March, 2025. KNA Bulletin, December, 2024. Sauti Ya Gusii, December, 2024. Kiome is the daughter of Samuel Kiome Rimbere a former councilor and the first Member of County Assembly for Meru’s Municipality Ward Kenya Mar 22 – Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma M’Ethingia has nominated Lawyer Linda Kiome as his deputy who now awaits vetting and approval by the Meru County Assembly before assuming office a former councilor and the first Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Meru’s Municipality Ward Her nomination as Deputy Governor comes in the wake of Governor Mutuma’s recent inauguration following the impeachment of his predecessor President William Ruto appointed Kiome as the Vice-Chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Selection Panel she briefly served as the legal advisor to Governor Mwangaza before their professional relationship deteriorated Kiome ventured into politics in 2022 when former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi selected her as his running mate in the Meru gubernatorial race; they finished second to Kawira Mwangaza Her legal career includes serving as the acting President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) following the ouster of Nelson Havi in January 2022 Kenya caucus and was a board member of both the Meru National Polytechnic and the Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital Meru County has been a hotbed of political wrangles and leadership instability since the 2022 general elections The turmoil escalated during the tenure of  Governor Mwangaza who became the first woman to lead the county after defeating established political heavyweights her administration was marred by a series of clashes with Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) and her own executive leading to persistent governance challenges Governor Mwangaza faced two impeachment attempts within less than two years in office The first impeachment was overturned by the Senate in 2022 but tensions with the MCAs and other leaders persisted she was finally impeached in February 2025 marking the climax of Meru’s prolonged leadership crisis  M’Ethingia was sworn in as the new Governor Mutuma had previously served as Meru County Assembly Speaker Impeached DP Rigathi Gachagua chairs a multi-agency meeting on September 10 Gachagua alleged that President Ruto is hatching a plot to oust CJ Koome for failing to play to his tune the former second-in-command dared Ruto to orchestrate Koome's removal warning that he would never be welcome in Meru "She is being fought because she has refused to be a 'yes sir' person If you chase our Martha Koome don't set foot in Meru Kenya people were silent you thought they were cowards," he said if you dare plan to chase Martha Koome stay in Nairobi and do not step in Meru again." to instead take on fights with his ilk and leave the CJ alone Gachagua further blamed political leaders in Meru for being silent while the alleged purge was ongoing accusing them of taking bribes from the top office to remain mum "Martha Koome is being chased out and the Senator is silent What has happened to the leadership of Meru?" he posed The embattled politician threatened if Koome is ousted he will mobilise Meru residents to take the streets against the State noting that the alleged onslaught from the State against the Mt We are not going to sit again as William Ruto destroys the leadership of Mt "How do you take an entire community as fools We have elected you and you have turned against us But God will not allow you to finish this community." Gachagua has fiercely taken on President Ruto and his administration since being impeached in October 2024