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  • Kenya’s sporting Prowess

    Kenya’s sporting Prowess

    By Chelangat Caren,

    Kenya has been making waves in the sports arena, and it is not just about athletics. The country has produced world-class athletes who have dominated various disciplines, inspiring a nation and leaving an indelible mark on the global sports landscape.
    In 2025, Kenyan athletes shone bright at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, finishing second overall with eleven medals, including seven golds. Beatrice Chebet’s double gold in the 5000m and 10,000m events was a highlight, cementing Kenya’s reputation as a distance running powerhouse. Faith Kipyegon also defended her 1500m title, adding to her impressive collection of medals.
    But it is not just about the women; the men are also making their presence felt. Emmanuel Wanyonyi won the men’s 800m gold, while Sabastian Sawe set course records in the London and Berlin Marathons. These achievements are a testament to Kenya’s depth of talent and dedication to sports.
    Beyond athletics, Kenyan teams are making strides in other sports. The Harambee Stars, Kenya’s national football team, delivered a stunning performance at the African Nations Championship (CHAN), earning a spot in the CAF Champions League. Rugby is also gaining popularity, with the Kenya Simbas delivering a spirited campaign at the Rugby Africa Cup.
    The country’s sports success is not limited to the field; it is also about the fans. Kenyans are known for their passion and energy, filling stadiums and cheering on their teams with unwavering support. The “Jaza Stadi” movement, which translates to “Fill the Stadium,” has become a cultural phenomenon, showcasing the nation’s love for sports.
    Kenya’s sporting achievements are a source of national pride, inspiring young athletes and fans alike. As the country continues to invest in sports infrastructure and development programs, the future looks bright for Kenyan sports.
    Some notable Kenyan sports personalities include Eliud Kipchoge, the marathon legend who broke the two-hour barrier; Faith Kipyegon, the middle-distance queen; and Victor Wanyama, the football star who played in top European leagues.
    As Kenya’s sports journey continues, one thing is clear: the nation’s passion for sports runs deep. With talent, dedication, and support, Kenyan athletes will keep pushing boundaries and inspiring generations to come. The baton has been passed; now it is time for the next generation to pick it up and run.
    In the words of Kenyan athletes, “Pole pole, Hatua kwa Hatua” – Slowly, Step by Step, Kenya will conquer the world of sports. Kenya’s sports story is one of resilience and triumph. As the nation celebrates its heroes, it is also paving the way for future champions. The journey is not just about winning medals; it is about igniting a fire that fuels dreams and inspires greatness.

  • Love at First Try: HSBC SVNS Division 2

    Love at First Try: HSBC SVNS Division 2

    By Joe Aura, aurajoe6@gmail.com

    Nairobi will trade roses for rugby this Valentine’s weekend as the HSBC SVNS Division 2 opens its global season at Nyayo National Stadium on February 14–15, 2026, blending elite sevens action with a festival atmosphere under the theme #LoveAtFirstTry.

    The two-day event marks a historic first for Kenya, hosting the opening leg of World Rugby’s second-tier sevens series. Fans will watch top international teams compete while enjoying live music, cultural showcases, food villages and sundowners -positioning the tournament as both a sporting spectacle and a social destination.

    Kenya fields both national sides on home turf: Kenya Shujaa in the men’s draw alongside the USA, Uruguay and Germany; and the Kenya Lionesses facing Brazil, China and Spain in the women’s competition. The Nairobi leg is expected to be pivotal early in the series as teams chase promotion momentum.

    The tournament carries special significance for the Daystar community. Daystar Falcons standouts Patrick Odongo and Clinton Amukwachi are currently in South Africa with the national setup preparing for the home leg. Odongo, a second-year student, has been one of Shujaa’s most exciting performers – making Nyayo a true homecoming.

    Tickets

    Tickets are available via TikoHub and M-Pesa, with student-friendly group options designed to pack the stands:

    • Regular (Advance): KSh 500, Gate: KSh 750
    • VIP (Advance): KSh 2,500, Gate: KSh 3,000
    • Mbogi Offer: Group of 7 for KSh 2,100 (about KSh 300 per person)
      Early-bird tickets from KSh 300 have largely sold out, but the mbogi bundles keep the weekend affordable for squads.

    Off the pitch, the festival feel gets a boost from a KSh 40 million injection by Tusker (Kenya Breweries Limited), promising a bigger music and cultural village. Performances by Jua Cali headline an entertainment lineup tailored for the university crowd.

    Rather than standing alone, the SVNS weekend fits neatly into Nairobi’s growing sports calendar. For students and runners, the Valentine’s rugby festival could serve as a high-energy warm-up ahead of the Laban Ayiro Run, scheduled for March 7, 2026 – extending the city’s momentum from contact sport to endurance challenge.

    For story pitches, commissioned writing, or collaborations, connect with Joe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aura-joe-digitalproducer/recent-activity/articles/

  • A Courtside Diary from the ITF W35 in Nairobi, Kenya

    A Courtside Diary from the ITF W35 in Nairobi, Kenya

    By Teddy Otieno tedootieno@gmail.com,

    The ITF W35 Tennis Tournament has been ongoing at Parklands Sports Club since January 5, and Saturday saw a huge turnout as Angela Okutoyi claimed both the singles and doubles titles. Riding on that momentum, I made my way to Parklands Sports Club on Tuesday, January 6, for day two of week two of the tournament. The W35 is part of the ITF World Tennis Tour, attracting rising professionals from across the globe while offering Kenyan players rare, high-level competition on home soil.

    I first went to the Parklands Tennis Courts along Wambugu Road—only to realise I was at the wrong location. The security guard at the gate pointed toward the road and said, “Take a left, then… do you know the police station?”

    I told him I didn’t.

    “Okay, doesn’t matter. Take a left, then a right, and you’ll see the place—Parklands Sports Club.”

    I thanked him and walked for about ten minutes before arriving at Gate B Of Parklands Sports Club. All four courts were busy, with singles and doubles matches happening simultaneously. I settled at Court 2, where Belgian player Valdevende was facing India’s Komal Nagare. Coincidentally, I was wearing the same Nike cap as Valdevende.

    I was on assignment to follow the Kenyan players in the doubles draw. Seventeen-year-old Stacy Yego was partnered with China’s Yan Shihong, facing Isabella Shinikova of Bulgaria and Lexue Xiao of China. Their match was on Court 3, far from the stands, which sit under a tree adjacent to Court 2 and make following the distant action difficult.

    I walked around to the back of the courts and sat behind the fence, right behind the action. A banner indicated the seats were reserved for coaches – a detail I chose to ignore, hoping no one would ask me to move. Beside me sat two Chinese men – one older gentleman I presumed to be Yan’s coach, and another who appeared to be a friend of Xiao. There was also a woman in sunglasses who frequently spoke to Shinikova in a foreign language.

    Shinikova and Xiao dominated the opening set, winning the first few games before play was briefly stopped when Xiao suffered a nosebleed. After receiving medical attention, they resumed and comfortably took the first set 6-1.

    The second set saw Stacy and Yan settle into the match. They played with more confidence, winning the opening two games. However, Shinikova and Xiao showed their experience, regrouped, and closed out the set 6-2 to seal the match.

    Afterwards, I caught up with Stacy and introduced myself as a sports writer. She looked exhausted, so I kept it brief. I ask for her thoughts on the game.

    “We weren’t used to each other, so the first set was tough,” she said. “The second set was better-we got more balls and started playing better.”

    I asked how doubles partnerships are formed at such tournaments, whether they are random.
    “No, it’s not random,” she explained. “You choose for yourself. There are many players here, so you get options.”

    Stacy had earlier lost her singles match on Monday to India’s Sravya Shindani, and the doubles defeat marked the end of her W35 campaign.

    Next up was the doubles match I was most keen to watch: Kenyan teenagers Hadassah Grace (17) and Faith Urasa (19) against India’s Saumya Vig and Yashaswini Panwar. The match was again on Court 3, forcing me to follow from the far side of the stands- an admittedly frustrating experience.

    The Indian pair were dominant, racing to a 6-0 win in the first set. Hadassah and Faith improved in the second, showing better coordination and fight, but ultimately fell 6-2, losing the match in straight sets. The result marked the end of the tournament for the only all-Kenyan doubles pairing.

    I approached Hadassah and Faith after the match. Initially hesitant, they relaxed once I assured them it wasn’t a video interview. Faith joked that I should speak to the winners “over there.” I told her winning or losing didn’t matter-my focus was on Kenyan players.

    “The first set was bad,” Faith admitted. “In the second, we tried to come back, but we lost momentum.”

    I asked why they chose to partner with each other. “We play together a lot,” she said. “That’s why.”

    It was a short conversation with two young players still getting used to media attention. Before leaving, I told Faith we would be rooting for her as she prepared for a tough singles match against Hungary’s Luca Udvardy on Wednesday.

    Although they came up short, players like Stacy Yego, Faith Urasa, and Hadassah Grace represent the next chapter of Kenyan tennis. Competing against seasoned international opponents at just 17 and 19 years old, the experience gained at the ITF W35 may ultimately prove more valuable than any single win.

     

  • Kenyan David Munyua Stuns the World at PDC World Championship

    Kenyan David Munyua Stuns the World at PDC World Championship

    By Joe Aura, aurajoe6@gmail.com,

    Kenya announced itself on darts’ grandest stage on Thursday night as David Munyua produced one of the biggest upsets in PDC World Championship history, defeating world No. 18 Mike De Decker 3–2 at Alexandra Palace in London.

    The 30-year-old from Murang’a, a full-time veterinarian and part-time darts player, became the first African to win a match at the PDC Worlds after overturning a two-set deficit against the Belgian star. Munyua dramatically sealed the victory, landing a nerveless 135 checkout on the bullseye in the deciding set, despite De Decker posting the higher match average.

    “It’s a huge moment for Kenya and for Africa,” Munyua said after the match. “Nobody is guaranteed victory beforehand in sports, so I told myself I would give it my all.”

    Munyua’s journey to the world stage is as remarkable as the result itself. Just three years ago, he had never thrown a dart competitively. The introduction came in the most unlikely of places—a local bar, where a friend stepped up to the oche during a casual evening out. Curious, Munyua joined in. The next day, he bought a dartboard. Soon after, his friend encouraged him to try small local tournaments.

    “I was just playing because of friendships and sportsmanship,” Munyua has often said. Professional ambition was not the initial goal.

    Fast forward to 2025, and Munyua is Africa’s leading darts player. He qualified for the World Championship by winning the African Darts Group Qualifier, claiming six consecutive victories, including an 8–6 final win with an average of 83.16. His highest tournament average peaked at 86.82 in the quarter-finals, confirming his growing consistency.

    On the PDC stage, Munyua showed remarkable composure for a debutant. After losing the first two sets to De Decker—the reigning World Grand Prix champion—he did not panic. He survived three match darts in the fourth set, produced a perfect six-dart start in one leg, and steadily clawed his way back into the contest.

    By the time the final set arrived, the Kenyan looked anything but overawed. With the score finely balanced, Munyua stepped up and delivered the decisive 135 checkout, igniting the Alexandra Palace crowd and writing his name into darts folklore.

    “It was do-or-die. I could not feel my hands, but in my mind, I wanted to show the whole world that there is talent in Africa.”

    Statistically, Munyua’s rise has been rapid. Over the past 12 months, he has averaged 75.05, recorded 21 maximum 180s, achieved a highest checkout of 153, and won 56.39 per cent of legs overall—figures that underline his competitiveness at the elite level.

    Nicknamed “Why Not,” Munyua walked out to the oche to Mwaki by Sofiya Nzau and Zerb. He will face Japanese Motomu Sakau next in the second round. As Munyua continues a journey that began in a bar, he has now captured the imagination of a continent. His journey is proof that sometimes, all it takes is the courage to ask, why not?

    For story pitches, commissioned writing, or collaborations, connect with Joe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aura-joe-digitalproducer/recent-activity/articles/

  • UP, DOWNS AND FIRSTS — Lando Norris’ journey to the top.

    UP, DOWNS AND FIRSTS — Lando Norris’ journey to the top.

    By Nafisa Najmi,

    ‘Next year is going to be my year!’ Lando Norris triumphantly said those words into his radio after the final race of the 2024 season in Abu Dhabi, which he won. Norris finished second in the 2024 driver standings, marking his best championship finish.

    One year later, the British driver secured his first Driver’s Championship after finishing third in the penultimate Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. He secured the title by just two points ahead of four-time and defending champion Max Verstappen.

    The 2025 Formula One season came to an end, with McLaren securing the Constructor’s Championship for the second year in a row. With an upcoming regulations change, this season was vital for data collection and understanding the cars, with next year promising to be even tougher.

    There were numerous unknowns entering this season. The big headline heading into the season opener in Australia was undoubtedly Lewis Hamilton moving to Ferrari. However, Lando Norris kept his head down and won the wet Australian Grand Prix, which wasn’t short of crashes and drama. This first win set a marker that Norris meant business in 2025.

    Things seemed positive after the strong start in Australia. However, the British driver finished in second in back-to-back races – the Chinese and Japanese GP, and didn’t cross the line first until May when he won the Monaco GP. McLaren had car issues, and Lando even reported that at one time, it felt like he had never driven an F1 car. Despite the struggles, Lando had 2 wins and placed P4 as his worst result.

    His consistency took a hit when a miscalculated overtake on his teammate for a P4, through the fast and narrow corners of the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, Montréal. The McLaren of Lando Norris hit the barricades and ended his race with just 4 more racing laps to go. Things started to look a little unsure about Lando’s chances at the title.

    However, Lando came fighting with back-to-back wins, one being on home turf at Silverstone. He then finished P2 in Belgium before snatching a miraculous win in Hungary, where he pulled off an incredible one-stop strategy while rivals opted for two. A nerve-wracking last few laps had his teammate and Championship rival, Oscar Piastri, chasing with fresher tyres and better grip. Lando showcased a masterclass in defence and tyre management and bagged the win.

    Lando walked into the Dutch GP with a mere 9-point deficit to his rival, but unfortunately, luck wasn’t on his side. He got a DNF caused by a mechanical issue, which saw a 34-point gap between him and his title dreams. Speculations, rumours, and fanfare had already seemed to decide the championship winner, but Lando Norris had other plans.

    He came back feisty after the summer break and was ready to fight for the grand prize. Determination and consistency saw Lando Norris retake the lead that he lost in Bahrain at the Mexico Grand Prix, where he came out on top by 1 point.

    With the final 4 races of the season in view, Lando proved dominant and unstoppable. The  Brazilian GP, which was a weekend to forget in 2024, turned into one to remember as Lando took maximum points – winning both the sprint and main race.

    However, in Formula 1, it is not over until it is over. The final triple header of the season was nothing short of drama. The Las Vegas grand prix saw both McLaren drivers, who were title contenders, face a gruesome disqualification. What would’ve been a 30-point lead turned into a 24-point gap between him and Piastri and Verstappen, who were now tied.

    A wrong call by McLaren at the penultimate Qatar GP left both drivers vulnerable as Piastri finished second with Norris fourth. The champion would have to be crowned in Abu Dhabi, the final Grand Prix of the season.

    Apart from the P7 finish in Azerbaijan and the unfortunate DNFs and disqualification, the Brit showed skill and consistency, bagging 7 race wins and 17 podiums. Now he only needed one more podium to win the Driver’s Championship.

    The Yas Marina circuit buzzed with anticipation as the five lights signalled the start, all three title contenders starting at the front. Lando Norris started second but let his teammate Oscar pass. They had different strategies; Lando wanted to maintain a podium, while Piastri wanted the win.

    With the Scarlet red Ferrari of Charles Leclerc in Norris’ mirrors, McLaren had to rethink their strategy to help him maintain third place. Lando was quick to ensure a pitstop gap was maintained and the risk of undercut from Charles Leclerc, who was also aiming for a podium finish, was avoided. Lando’s first pit stop had him rejoin a DRS train of traffic led by Yuki Tsunoda.

    The Briton showed quick overtakes and stayed calm under pressure. Charles Leclerc in the Ferrari pushed hard for P3, but Norris remained calm, built a seven-second gap before he crossed the chequered flag as world champion, with a two-point gap over Verstappen in the final standings.

    Through his hard work, sweat and tears (literally), the Briton achieved his childhood dream. Lando became the 35th driver to become a Formula 1 World Champion, the first non-Redbull or Mercedes driver to win it since 2009, and the 11th British driver to have his name etched into the trophy.

    7 years later since the 19-year-old joined F1, Lando Norris became the first F2 graduate to subsequently win a Formula 1 world championship and the 8th Driver in a McLaren to do so. In 2024, he had the unpopular record of being the driver with the most podiums but no wins, which he got rid of in the 2024 Miami GP. Now he is the world champion. In the words of Carlos Sainz, “He has proven you can achieve your highest goals by staying true to yourself.”

  • A “Monumental Betrayal”: The Controversy Over 2026 World Cup Ticket Prices

    A “Monumental Betrayal”: The Controversy Over 2026 World Cup Ticket Prices

    By Javan O. Ekhalie,

    The excitement for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, recently hit a sour note. A global outcry from fans and advocacy groups erupted after FIFA revealed a ticket pricing structure that many labelled “extortionate” and a “betrayal” of the working-class supporters who make the sport what it is.

    Following days of intense pressure, FIFA executed a rare U-turn, introducing a new tier of affordable tickets. However, as the dust settles, many are asking: is this a genuine fix, or just a PR bandage?

    The Initial Shock: Pricing Out the Average Fan

    The controversy began when FIFA released the initial pricing details to national federations. Fans were stunned to discover that the cost of attending matches had skyrocketed compared to previous tournaments like Qatar 2022.

    • The Sticker Shock: Reports indicated that the cheapest seats for the World Cup Final in New Jersey were priced at a staggering $4,185 (Ksh 539,865).
    • Following Your Team: For a dedicated fan hoping to follow their national team from the opening match through to the final, the estimated cost for tickets alone—excluding travel and hotels—was projected to exceed $6,900 (Ksh 890,100).
    • Dynamic Pricing: Adding fuel to the fire was the use of “dynamic pricing,” a model common in US sports where prices fluctuate based on demand. This meant a group stage match involving a star-studded team like Argentina or Brazil could see prices surge well beyond the advertised face value, with some opening match tickets reportedly reaching up to $2,735 (Ksh 352,815).

    Football Supporters Europe (FSE), a representative body for fans, issued a scathing statement calling the pricing a “monumental betrayal of the tradition of the World Cup.”They argued that FIFA was treating loyal supporters as cash cows rather than the heartbeat of the tournament.

    The Climbdown: A $60 “Fix”

    Facing a PR nightmare and threats of boycotts from organized supporter groups, FIFA blinked. In a sudden announcement this week, the governing body revealed a new “Supporter Entry Tier” of tickets.

    Under this revised plan, a limited number of tickets for every match, including the final, will be sold at a fixed price of $60 (Ksh 7,740).

    FIFA stated this move was designed to “reward loyal fans” and ensure that the tournament remained accessible. On the surface, dropping the price of a final ticket from over $4,000 (Ksh 516,000) to just $60 (Ksh 7,740) seems like a massive victory for fan power.

    The Catch: Reading the Fine Print

    While the headline figure is attractive, the reality is more complex. Critics have pointed out that the allocation for these cheap tickets is incredibly small.

    • The Numbers: The $60 tickets reportedly make up only 10% of the specific allocation given to national federations.
    • The Reality: Since national federations are only allocated about 8% of the total stadium capacity, the “cheap” tickets amount to roughly 0.8% of the total seats in the stadium.
    • The Odds: For a stadium holding 80,000 people, this means fewer than 700 tickets would be available at the $60 (Ksh 7,740) price point, leaving the vast majority of fans fighting for the standard, expensive seats that still cost hundreds or thousands of dollars.

    The lowering of entry-level prices proves that organized fan pressure works. However, the scarcity of these affordable tickets suggests that for the majority of global football fans, the 2026 World Cup remains a luxury event, priced far out of reach for the average supporter.

  • The 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: Three Drivers, One Championship, Fifty-Eight laps to settle everything.

    The 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: Three Drivers, One Championship, Fifty-Eight laps to settle everything.

    By Joe Aura, aurajoe6@gmail.com

    The energy around the final race of the season shifts up a gear every time. The world’s eyes will be on Yas Marina as anticipation is building ahead of the 2025 season finale in Abu Dhabi, where the Drivers’ Champion will be crowned following a thrilling 24-race campaign. But will it be Lando Norris, Max Verstappen or Oscar Piastri who leaves the Yas Marina Circuit with the title?

    F1 is the pinnacle of data-driven decision-making and engineering. So it’s amazing when those details go down to the final race, the final mili second and the final decision of the season.

    The 2025 Formula 1 season has been a thrilling, tight three-way battle for the Drivers’ Championship between McLaren teammates Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.

    As things stand before the season finale: Norris leads with 408 points, Verstappen follows with 396, and Piastri is close behind at 392. Sources: Sky Sports, RacingNews365 [Sky Sports+2RacingNews365+2]

    All three – Norris, Verstappen, and Piastri – have seven Grand Prix victories this season, underlining how evenly matched their campaigns have been. Sources: AS USA, Nine Australia [AS USA+2nine.com.au+2]

    McLaren have already clinched the 2025 Constructors’ Championship, making them the dominant team across the season and giving additional weight to the intra-team rivalry between Norris and Piastri. Source: McLaren Racing [McLaren+2McLaren+2]

    McLaren has already sealed the 2025 Constructors’ Championship, underlining their technical supremacy and adding even more weight to the intra-team rivalry between Norris and Piastri. Source: McLaren Racing

    For most of the season, McLaren controlled the narrative — until Verstappen mounted a late-season resurgence, capped by a decisive Qatar Grand Prix victory. McLaren’s strategy misstep in the same race tightened the standings, transforming the Abu Dhabi finale into a three-way title shootout. The tension within the McLaren garage has been palpable, with teammates pushing each other to the limit while trying not to compromise the team’s championship ambitions.

    Zak Brown summed up the Verstappen threat perfectly, calling him “that guy in the horror movie that keeps coming back.” And true to form, Verstappen has shown relentless consistency, capitalising on every opportunity to stay in the hunt.

    The 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will represent the 32nd time in Formula 1’s 75-year history that the battle for the Drivers’ Championship has gone down to the final race of the season.

    Norris can only win the title by finishing first or second while both Verstappen and Piastri fail to make the podium.

    Verstappen’s cleanest path is a win with Norris fourth or worse – if he doesn’t win he must outscore Norris by at least 13 points while preventing Piastri from outscoring him by five or more.

    Piastri’s route is narrow: he needs a top two finish (a win requires Norris sixth or lower; second demands Norris tenth or lower and Verstappen off the podium) – 58 laps to settle everything.

     

    For story pitches, commissioned writing, or collaborations, connect with Joe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aura-joe-digitalproducer/recent-activity/articles/

     

  • Springboks Finish 2025 With Ruthless 73–0 “Demolition Job” on Wales

    Springboks Finish 2025 With Ruthless 73–0 “Demolition Job” on Wales

    By Joe Aura, aurajoe6@gmail.com

    The Springboks closed their 2025 season with a statement 73–0 annihilation of Wales in Cardiff – the heaviest home defeat in Welsh history.

    South Africa ran in 11 tries at the Principality Stadium, turning a 28–0 halftime lead into a one-sided exhibition of power, depth, and precision. The victory also sealed an unbeaten autumn tour and ensured the Boks end the year as the world’s No. 1 team for the third straight season.

    Wales, fielding a weakened squad under Steve Tandy, simply had no answers. The only blemish in South Africa’s performance came late in the match when Eben Etzebeth was shown a red card for allegedly gouging Alex Mann, an incident head coach Rassie Erasmus diplomatically labeled “not a good look,” while admitting the call was justified.

    Still, the match fed into a bigger, louder debate sweeping rugby: are the 2019–2025 Springboks the most dominant team the sport has ever seen?

    Their résumé is outrageous. Back-to-back Rugby World Cup titles. Four World Cups overall. A British & Irish Lions series win. Wins over every top ten nation. Years spent anchored at No. 1. A bench strategy (“Bomb Squad”) that changed how teams think about impact players. And a competitive era stacked with talent across the globe.

    Of course, greatness isn’t uncontested. Rugby romantics still point to the All-Blacks dynasties of 2011–2015 and 1987–1990, both known for unbeaten streaks and generational legends.

    England’s 2002–2003 squad also earns respect for conquering the Southern Hemisphere en route to their historic World Cup triumph. The answer depends on what you value – dominance over one cycle, longevity or adaptability.

    So who are the all-time rugby greats ?

  • A NIGHT OF STYLE, STARS & SUSTAINABILITY AT THE GRAND FASHION AWARDS

    A NIGHT OF STYLE, STARS & SUSTAINABILITY AT THE GRAND FASHION AWARDS

    by Lovele Hope,

    On the evening of 15 November 2025, the Louis Leakey Auditorium at the National Museum of Kenya was transformed into a runway and awards theatre as the Grand Fashion Awards 2025 staged its second edition. The organizers leaned into an eco-conscious positioning for the festival — described on the awards’ official platform as “Eco-Elegance; where style meets sustainability” — and used the night to spotlight designers and brands that are marrying creativity with more responsible practice. https://www.capitalfm.co.ke/lifestyle/2025/11/19/grand-fashion-awards-2025-celebrates-a-spectacular-second-edition-with-glitz-glamour-kenyas-top-fashionistas/

    The Grand Fashion Awards is presented by the Grand Fashion team; the founder spoke from the stage about building the platform to amplify Kenyan talent and to make fashion a driver of cultural and economic value. Vivian Ndegwa, the founder, framed the awards as an acceleration platform for designers and creatives with promise of even larger plans for the coming year. Capital FM

    The event attracted over 400 attendees. Notable figures on the guest list included musicians and public personalities such as Stivo Simple Boy, actor Nick Mutuma, and media names like MC Jimmie Kajim demonstrated that the awards are attracting cross-industry attention beyond fashion insiders. Capital FM

    The evening’s main host for the ceremony was media personality Phyline Jean, while the red-carpet experience was curated and led by entertainment journalist Kalondu Musyimi  both credited for setting a lively and stylish tone for arrivals, interviews and social media moments. The red-carpet coverage amplified the event across social platforms and helped showcase looks that later won “Red Carpet” style mentions and related categories. Capital FM

    The Grand Fashion Awards run a broad set of categories covering the fashion ecosystem — from Designer of the Year, Stylist, Clothing Line, and Bridal/Wedding Designer, to practical trade categories such as Fashion Shop of the Year, Barbers, and Beauty Spas. The organizers published a long category list (the awards portal lists dozens of categories including sustainability-focused awards such as Sustainable Fashion Brand and Upcycle Fashion Brand), which explains how the ceremony handed out around 40 awards across creative and trade disciplines. Voting and participation channels (including voting in previous cycles) point to a mixed jury/public model used by the organizers. Grand Fashion+1

    Press and social coverage identified many category winners; below are several of the most talked-about results and moments from the night:

    • Fashion Designer of the Year — WizMario. Widely reported across media outlets and the awards’ own social channels, WizMario was named Designer of the Year for 2025. Instagram+1
    • Fashion Shop of the Year — Zannetti Gents (Zannetti Gents Fashion). The brand celebrated its win across Instagram and Facebook posts. Facebook+1
    • Lifetime Achievement Award — Hon. Raila Odinga. A high-profile honorary award given during the ceremony and listed among the headline awardees. Capital FM
    • Honorary / Inspirational Personality — Stivo (Stivo Simple Boy). Stivo Simple Boy received an honorary Most Fashionable Inspirational Personality award, one of several celebrity-style recognitions that night. Capital FM

    (Full lists of winners were published by media outlets — those lists run to dozens of categories; the awards’ social feed and news coverage provide complete rosters.) Mpasho+1

    The evening mixed award presentations with runway showcases from several established and emerging designers. There was runway runs by at least five designers and performances that kept the energy high between awards — a format that balances recognition with showmanship.

    Analysis, what this edition signaled for Kenyan fashion

    1. Sustainability is front and center. The “Eco-Elegance” language on the awards’ platform and the presence of sustainability categories reflect a push to reposition Kenyan fashion as ethically aware and environmentally conscious — a trend that mirrors global industry shifts. Grand Fashion
    2. Cross-sector visibility. The attendance and awards handed to public figures (music, TV, influencers) show the awards’ strategy of building cultural relevance beyond runway purists. This cross-pollination raises commercial and sponsorship appeal for Kenyan designers. Capital FM
    3. Platform growth and legitimacy. With professional media partners covering the evening and hundreds in attendance, the Grand Fashion Awards appear to be scaling as a recurring industry marker — especially now that they publish robust category lists and operate open voting/nomination mechanics. Grand Fashion Awards+1
  • The 20 greatest WWE wrestlers of all time

    The 20 greatest WWE wrestlers of all time

    By Joe Aura 

    The greatest professional wrestling product in the world for the last 50 years has been the WWF, which has been known as the WWE since 2002. To be a WWE superstar, you have to be athletic and know how to create a story for dramatic effect.

    Here are the 20 greatest wrestlers to grace Vince McMahon’s billionaire empire based on their ring ability, acting skills, and storytelling abilities.

    20. Chris Jericho

    Few wrestlers have reinvented themselves as successfully as Chris Jericho. From his “Y2J” days to “The List” and AEW stardom, Jericho’s versatility and charisma have made him a global icon.

    19. Rey Mysterio

    The ultimate underdog, Rey Mysterio brought lucha libre to the WWE mainstream. With incredible high-flying moves and memorable storylines, he’s a giant in wrestling despite his smaller stature.

    18. Brock Lesnar

    The Beast Incarnate redefined dominance in WWE, steamrolling opponents and winning multiple world titles. His real-life athletic credentials and imposing presence make him one of the most credible performers ever. While he’s not actually one we feel particularly inspired by, his legacy in the industry cannot be overlooked.

    17. AJ Styles

    “The Phenomenal One” didn’t join WWE until later in his career, but he quickly established himself as one of the best wrestlers of his generation. His matches are a masterclass in storytelling and athleticism – the ultimate worker.

    16. Lita

    With her high-flying moves and punk-rock attitude, Lita broke barriers in WWE’s Women’s Division, bringing a new level of technicality to the women’s division that had not been seen before and has been a huge influence on the women, such as Becky Lynch, who have defined the modern era of WWE.

    15. Daniel Bryan (Bryan Danielson)

    Daniel Bryan’s rise from indie darling to WWE champion is one of wrestling’s greatest underdog stories. His technical brilliance and “Yes!” movement cemented his place among the greats.

    14. Becky Lynch

    “The Man” broke barriers as one of the first women to headline WrestleMania and redefined WWE’s women’s division. Her charisma and in-ring talent make her one of WWE’s all-time greats.

    13. Kurt Angle

    An Olympic gold medalist turned wrestling superstar, Kurt Angle’s blend of technical skill and comedic timing made him a unique force in WWE. His feuds with Brock Lesnar and The Rock are unforgettable.

    12. “Macho Man” Randy Savage

    “Ooooh yes!” Randy Savage brought unmatched intensity to his promos and matches. With flamboyant outfits and unforgettable bouts, like his WrestleMania III match against Ricky Steamboat, Savage remains an icon almost 30 years after his prime run.

    11. “Rowdy” Roddy Piper

    Piper’s fiery promos and villainous antics made him one of wrestling’s most captivating performers. Though he never won the WWE Championship, and only had stints as the US Champion and Intercontinental champ, his legacy as one of the greatest heels remains untouchable.

    10. Triple H

    The Game dominated the Attitude and Ruthless Aggression eras, becoming a cornerstone of WWE. Whether as a member of D-Generation X or a main-event heel, Triple H’s influence – especially as a heel – is undeniable. Not to mention he had what was, in our opinion, the best entrance of all time.

    9. Jeff Hardy

    A daredevil like no other, Jeff Hardy’s high-flying style and jaw-dropping Swanton Bombs made him a fan favorite. From iconic TLC matches with The Hardy Boyz to a decorated singles career, Jeff’s risk-taking redefined WWE and was responsible for some of the most heart-stopping moments we’ve ever seen in the ring.

    8. John Cena

    “The Champ” carried WWE on his back for over a decade, winning 16 world titles, tying with Ric Flair for the most WWE world title reigns, and transcending wrestling to become a pop culture phenomenon. Cena’s work ethic and connection with fans are second to none.

    7. Bret “The Hitman” Hart

    “The Best There Is, The Best There Was, and The Best There Ever Will Be” was more than a catchphrase for Bret Hart – it was a way of life. His technical excellence and storytelling set a new standard in WWE that changed the course of the company.

    6. Ric Flair

    Although much of Ric Flair’s legacy lies outside WWE and easily has a stake at being the greatest WCW ever saw, his tenure at Vince McMahon’s company was incredible in its own right. The 16-time world champion had out of this world charisma and changed the game when it came to in-ring psychology.

    5. Hulk Hogan

    The face of wrestling in the 1980s, Hogan’s charisma and catchphrases helped WWE explode in popularity. Not only that, he has enjoyed multiple runs at the top across different eras, with a remarkable comeback in the early 2000s. While his legacy has been complicated, Hogan remains a cornerstone of wrestling history.

    4. “Stone Cold” Steve Austin

    The ultimate anti-hero, “Stone Cold” was the face of the Attitude Era and brought WWE to its highest ratings. A captivating performer in every sense, his beer-drinking, stunner-hitting antics made him a cultural icon that extended past the walls of WWE.

    3. The Rock

    But there is one wrestler who crossed over in a bigger way than anybody else. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s charisma and mic skills made him a crossover superstar. His WWE career is filled with unforgettable matches, memeable moments and catchphrases that still get held up in wrestling crowds to this day.

    2. Shawn Michaels©Provided by Sports Unlimited News

    “The Heartbreak Kid” is widely regarded as the best in-ring performer in WWE history. From his WrestleMania classics to his role in revolutionizing the industry over the course of 25 years, Shawn Michaels’ influence and legacy are virtually unparalleled.

    1. The Undertaker

    But when it comes to legacy and influence on the WWE, there is one man that stands above them all. The Deadman’s 30-year career is a testament to longevity and reinvention. From his 21-match undefeated WrestleMania streak to his eerie presence that completely transformed the energy of the arena, The Undertaker is the greatest the WWE ever saw.