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  • WORLDCOIN APP BACK UP AFTER TEMPORARY DOWN TIME

    WORLDCOIN APP BACK UP AFTER TEMPORARY DOWN TIME

    {Photo courtesy of World Coin}

     

    By Benjamin Wanguba

     

    Earlier on Monday, the Worldcoin app caused a temporary scare to some of its Kenyan users as the app went offline. This particularly had some users shook, as they were expecting a new grant to drop from the crypto company.  The grants are one-time payments issued to the users who enlist onto the Worldcoin platform. The grant is said to be worth 10 WLD with 1 WLD trading for 2.04 USD at the time of this reporting.

    In a statement through their X platform, the World App Support account, reported that the downtime had been as a result of higher than usual traffic. “World App is experiencing higher than usual traffic, if you face any issues please try again later. Thank You for your patience.” A statement they released at around 12:11 pm local time read.

    Hours later, many Kenyans would breathe a sigh of relief as the app resumed its regular functioning. Thousands of Kenyans are set to benefit from the grant worth an estimated 3,000 shillings, with Reuters having previously reported that the app had seen the registration of over 350,000 users in Kenya prior to the suspension of its registration activities in the country.

    Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kithure Kindiki, had last week ordered the company to cease its registration exercise in the country over concerns of data privacy. The ministry further directed that no persons whether Kenyan or a foreign national associated with the entity leaves Kenya without the clearance of the Director of Criminal Investigations who is in charge of the ongoing investigations.

  • Falcons Wrap up Prinsloo 7s  Campaign

    Falcons Wrap up Prinsloo 7s Campaign

    [Photo courtesy of Eric Onchiri]

    Daystar Falcons Rugby came up short in a fiercely contested final with MMUST rugby in the Prinsloo 7s Challenge trophy.

    The Falcons lost the final with a score of 12-15 with tries coming from Floyd Wabwire and Patrick Odongo. Clinton Kioko added to Falcons tally with extras but MMUST rugby withstood the onslaught to walk away as the Challenge Trophy victors.

    Falcons got to the finals after thrashing Nondies 24-0 in the semi finals. Patrick Odongo cemented the Falcons dominance with a brace before Floyd Wabwire and Clinton Amukwachi added to the tally with single tries. The extras again came from Clinton Kioko.

    Black Blad fell to Falcons in the quarter-finals despite putting up a spirited fight. Falcons thwarted the efforts of their opponents to win the quarters with a score of 21-12 with tries from Trevor Opondo, Samuel Ovwamu and Augustine Owino and extras from Clinton Kioko.

    Falcons are now set to take part in the prestigious Christie 7s tournament in Nairobi from August 12th to 13th

  • Arsenal Triumph over Manchester City to Win Community Shield

    Arsenal Triumph over Manchester City to Win Community Shield

    [Photo courtesy of Getty Images]

    Arsenal’s new signings Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, and Jurrien Timber all started but failed to make an impact as Man City won.

    Havertz tested Stefan Ortega twice in the first half but failed to convert on both occasions.

    The breakthrough came after Pep Guardiola made many substitutions, with De Bruyne and Palmer going on, and the duo combined to secure the win for Man City, with Palmer scoring in the 77th minute.

    However, there was late drama when Leandro Trossard equalized in the 11th minute of stoppage time.

    Following Martin Odegaard’s conversion, De Bruyne was up first for City in the penalty shootout, and the Belgian slammed his shot against the crossbar.

    Trossard came next, sending Ortega the wrong way to convert his spot-kick, before Bernardo Silva did the same.

    Bukayo Saka scored smoothly as Arsneal maintained control.

    Rodri was up next for City, but Aaron Ramsdale stopped his shot before Fabio Vieira scored into the top corner to give Arteta’s side the win.

     

     

  • Breaking Free: Escaping The Clutches Of Technology Addiction

    Breaking Free: Escaping The Clutches Of Technology Addiction

    {Photo courtesy of Ikostudio}

     

    By Janet Wambua

     

    In today’s fast-paced digital world, technology plays an integral role in our lives. From smartphones and social media to online gaming and endless streaming, it’s easy to get lost in the captivating allure of screens. Yet, this incessant reliance on technology often leads to a concerning phenomenon: technology addiction.

     

    We’ve all experienced it – the compulsion to constantly check notifications, mindlessly scroll through feeds, or lose track of time immersed in virtual worlds. At first, it seems harmless, even convenient. However, as hours turn into days, and days into months, we find ourselves entangled in the clutches of technology addiction.

     

    The consequences of technology addiction can be profound. Relationships may suffer as genuine connections are replaced by virtual interactions. Sleep patterns may be disrupted, and productivity levels may plummet as distraction becomes the norm. Our mental health may suffer, leading to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression.

     

    Escaping this modern-day trap is not easy, but it is possible. First, it’s essential to recognise the signs of addiction. Do you feel restless without your device nearby? Do you find yourself unable to focus on tasks for an extended period? If so, it may be time to take action.

     

    Start by setting clear boundaries with technology. Allocate specific times for checking messages and browsing, and stick to them. Engage in activities that don’t involve screens, like reading a book, spending time outdoors, or pursuing a hobby. Prioritise face-to-face interactions and nurture genuine connections with loved ones.

     

    Mindfulness can also be a powerful tool in combating technology addiction. Practice being present in the moment, observing your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Understand the triggers that lead you to reach for your device and learn to resist the urge.

     

    Breaking free from technology addiction is an ongoing journey. It requires self-awareness, determination, and the willingness to embrace a life less consumed by screens. By taking deliberate steps to detach from technology’s grasp, you’ll rediscover the joys of genuine human connection and experience the beauty of the world beyond the digital realm. Remember, the power to reclaim control over your life lies in your hands, not in the virtual world at your fingertips.

  • Spain Thrash Switzerland in Round of 16 encounter

    Spain Thrash Switzerland in Round of 16 encounter

    [Photo courtesy of Allfootball]

    Switzerland perfect defensive record in the competition was undone in just five minutes against Spain. Their defense was breached by midfielder Bonmati, who scored the first goal for La Roja.

    The Spanish team continued to dominate, adding more goals through Bonmati, Alba Redondo, Laia Codina, and Jenni Hermoso, resulting in an impressive 5-1 victory.

    Bonmati, Redondo, and Hermoso have all tallied three goals each in the tournament, showcasing their goal-scoring prowess.

    For Codina, her 45th-minute goal was a moment of redemption, as she had previously scored an unfortunate own goal with a misguided pass that shocked goalkeeper Cata Coll from 40 yards out.

    Spain secured a second-place finish in Group C, with comprehensive wins against Costa Rica and Zambia, scoring a combined 8-0, before experiencing an unexpected 4-0 defeat to Japan.

    Coach Jorge Vilda made strategic changes to the team, including replacing goalkeeper Maria Rodriguez with Coll, ahead of Saturday’s match.

    Having achieved their best World Cup finish to date, Switzerland, ranked 20th, matched their previous round of 16 exit in their sole World Cup appearance in 2015.

    Now, Spain advances to face the winner of the round of 16 game between the Netherlands and South Africa, and the fans anticipate more exciting clashes in the competition.

  • Arsenal Come Out on Top to be Crowned Emirates Cup Champions

    Arsenal Come Out on Top to be Crowned Emirates Cup Champions

    [Photo courtesy of Reuters]

    In their final test ahead of their Community Shield showdown against Manchester City, Mikel Arteta’s side triumphed on a home debut for several summer signings.

    The visitors proved stern opponents, however, and took the lead in the first half.

    After good work from Mohamed Camara, with the midfielder picking up the ball and bursting into the box, a cross was whipped in for Youssouf Fofana to head home.

    Arsenal responded well, inspired in part by strong performances from Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber before the interval, and promptly found the equaliser.

    Gabriel Martinelli, who played well as part of a reshuffled front three, found Eddie Nketiah with a corner, allowing him to volley in.

    Arsenal gained momentum after a slew of second-half substitutions at the hour mark, however Wissam Ben Yedder threatened after hitting the crossbar.

    Neither team was able to regain the lead, sending the game into overtime.

    Takumi Minamino, a former Liverpool player, was the only one denied in the shootout, with Aaron Ramsdale standing tall down the centre to keep the strike out.

    That allowed Gabriel to sneak in the game-winning penalty, capping off Arsenal’s preparations in style only days before the start of the new season.

     

  • Kenya’s Largest Automotive Distributor Launches Locally Assembled Toyota Fortuner

    Kenya’s Largest Automotive Distributor Launches Locally Assembled Toyota Fortuner

    {Photo courtesy of CFAO}

     

    By Hilda Kavai

     

    CFAO Motors, Kenya’s largest automotive distributor and service provider, launched the Toyota Fortuner, the country’s first locally assembled passenger SUV, and announced an additional Ksh120 million investment in the Fortuner assembly line at the Associated Vehicle Assemblers (AVA) in Mombasa County.

    H.E. President Dr. William Ruto commissioned the assembly line investment, which includes technology investments – assembly jigs and fixtures – as well as training and knowledge transfer, resulting in the creation of 100 direct and 500 indirect jobs.
    Aside from direct employment creation, CFAO Motors Kenya will collaborate closely with local parts manufacturers to boost capacity and help them attain global standards through technology transfer and technical know-how.

    CFAO Motors Kenya Chairman, Amb. Dennis Awori, stated at the commissioning event that the automotive firm expected excellent output levels from the assembly line due to the market’s increased demand for passenger SUVs. “We intend to assemble 350 vehicles in our first year, with plans for a gradual increase in line with the National Automotive Policy and rising market demand.”

    The addition of the Fortuner assembly line adds to CFAO Motors Kenya’s locally assembled vehicles portfolio, especially after the recent merger with DT Dobie. At the Associated Vehicle Assemblers, CFAO Motors now locally assembles the Land Cruiser LC79 series, Hino trucks and buses, Hilux single and double cab pickups, and Toyota Hiace (mini-bus); and the Mercedes Benz trucks and buses, Hyundai trucks, and Volkswagen passenger cars at the Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers assembly plant in Thika.

    The Fortuner assembly line features state-of-the art assembly fixtures that are critical for maintaining the highest quality standards during manufacturing.

    The launch of the Fortuner CKD assembly line demonstrates CFAO Motors’ continuous commitment to the Government’s manufacturing manifesto and the ‘Buy Kenya Build Kenya’ strategy. Because locally produced vehicles are exempt from duty, CFAO Motors will be able to offer the new Fortuner 2023 at an affordable price when compared to fully imported large SUVs.

    Arvinder Reel, Managing Director of CFAO Motors Kenya, lauded the government’s efforts to promote the expansion of the local manufacturing industry, noting the National Automotive Policy as a catalyst for the availability of more locally produced automobiles in the country.

    CFAO Motors has implemented a carbon-neutral strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by introducing ecologically efficient hybrid vehicles.

  • GOVERNMENT SUSPENDS CRYPTO ACTIVITIES

    GOVERNMENT SUSPENDS CRYPTO ACTIVITIES

    {Photo courtesy of Nation}

     

    By Samuel Owino

     

    The government on Wednesday, 2 August, has suspended activities by World Coin pending assessment on its risks.

    On a statement by interior CS, Kithure Kindiki, the government has suspended the activities by the American company, OpenAI, till concerned government agencies verify these activities and the risks they may pose to the public.

    “Accordingly, the government has suspended forthwith, activities of ‘WORLD COIN’ and any other entity that may be similarly engaging the people of Kenya until relevant public agencies certify the absence of any risks to the people of Kenya whatsoever.” Part of the statement reads.

    The statements also read that appropriate action will be taken on anyone who furthers, aids, abets, or engages with the suspended activities.

    This suspension comes a day after Kenyans lined up at malls and at KICC for the second day to scan their eyeball for an award of 25 world coin that amounts to 7700 Kenyan Shillings and a virtual human identity, World ID.

    In a interview on Wednesday morning, ICT CS, Eliud Owalo, said that as far as Data Act 2019 is concerned, World Coin is not violating any laws.

    He also said that the ODPC (Office of Data Protection Commissioner) got wind of the activities by World Coin and they are going to release a comprehensive statement on the concerns about World Coin.

    On Tuesday, 1 August, police officers had to suspend World Coin registration at KICC, citing security concerns.

  • Suits

    Suits

    {Photo courtesy of People Magazine}

     

    By Samuel Owino

     

    Suits have been in existence since the 19th century and can be credited to Beau Brummell, a prototypical gent back then. Before Beau Brummell, suits were heavy influenced by the French court. He broke these rules of clothing by simply putting on a jacket, a pair of trousers and boots.

    The name suits comes from the French word, “suivre” which means to follow. This could translate to, the jacket follows the trousers and the trousers follows the jacket.

    I have observed that most students in Daystar do not know how to properly put on a suit and this reflects poorly on us. Here are some of the basic rules that should be followed when wearing a suit.

    First of all, one has to know what type of suit he or she is wearing. There are two kinds, a single breasted suit and a double breasted suit.

    For the single breasted suit, there are three kinds; one-buttoned suit, two-buttoned suit and three-buttoned suit.

    • The one-buttoned suit, one must always keep the button closed while standing.
    • For the two-buttoned suit, keep the top button closed and never close the bottom button.
    • For the three-buttoned suit, the top button is optional, the middle button must always be closed and never close the lower most button. The rules goes “Sometimes, always, and never.”

    The double breasted suit may seem complex but pretty easy once you understand.

    The double breasted suit has one simple rule: close all the working buttons but the lower one that seals it is optional, meaning you could decide to close it all, or leave one button open.

    Now remember that whenever you sit down, it is advisable to unbutton your jacket. This makes one avoid ruining their suit and keeps it straight.

    Never undo all the buttons of your jacket unless you are seated. It is just the way it cut and it is not meant to be open.

    Now you know, so please Daystar students, let us change how we put on our suits when we are at events and especially the law students who put on suits on a regular.

    These rules are important as they show sophistication and cuts a better silhouette.

  • The Journey to a Healthy Lifestyle

    The Journey to a Healthy Lifestyle

    {Photo courtesy of Pinterest}

     

    By Sharon Victoria

     

    In a world filled with convenience and instant gratification, the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle often takes a backseat. However, the significance of maintaining good health cannot be overstated. A healthy lifestyle is not a one-time accomplishment but a continuous journey that requires dedication, discipline, and self-compassion.

    In this age of information, we are bombarded with countless diets, exercise routines, and wellness trends that promise quick results. While these may offer short-term fixes, they often lead to disappointment and frustration. The key to a healthy lifestyle lies in finding balance and making gradual, manageable changes.

    Rather than following the latest trend, let’s shift our focus to building habits that nourish our bodies and minds. This starts with a good diet that includes nutritious foods Instead of restrictive diets. We should always listen to our bodies. What works for one person might not work for another. Embracing this individuality is crucial on our journey to better health.

    Exercise is another essential aspect of a healthy lifestyle, but it doesn’t have to involve extreme workouts or training. Engaging in physical activities that we genuinely enjoy can make all the difference. Whether it’s dancing, hiking, swimming, or yoga, finding pleasure in movement will help us stay consistent and motivated.

    Equally important is prioritizing mental health. Stress due to either work, school or life can accumulate, impacting both our mental and physical health. Taking time to unwind, practice mindfulness, or pursuing hobbies can contribute to overall well-being.

    A healthy lifestyle. This belief can be discouraging when we stumble or face setbacks. Instead of being overly critical, let’s embrace self-compassion. We are human, after all, and it’s natural to experience ups and downs. The key is to acknowledge our imperfections and keep moving forward, learning and growing along the way.

    In conclusion, a healthy lifestyle doesn’t require perfection and doesn’t happen instantly.it’s a continuous journey of self-discovery and growth. Let’s prioritize balance, nourishment, and mental well-being.