Weekly publication

15th– 21st March 2024

Inside this issue:

Editorial 2

Trending in Western 3 ¨ Tech/ Communica ons consul ng

Kenya this week
¨ Branding & Graphic design
Tech 4

Western KE Business of 5
¨ Research & Digital Marke ng
the week
¨ Copywri ng/ edi ng/ Proofreading
Book reviews 6

7
Gi s personaliza on
¨
Entertainment
¨ Adver sing & Business development
Rental property 8

Events & Job adverts 9

Utilizing and Simplifying Communication

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EDITORIAL
In the heart of Kenya's vibrant Western region lies a publication that encapsulates the es-
sence of its communities, events, and entrepreneurial endeavors. Welcome to this week’s edi-
tion of The Western KE Observer, a production of the Lumi Investments Limited. With a mis-
sion to share compelling narratives, promote local events, and showcase businesses in West-
ern Kenya, The Western KE Observer stands as a beacon of regional pride and connectivity.
Lydia Nyongesa
Editor in chief

IN HONOR OF THE WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH...

At The Western KE Observer, we believe in the power of inclusivity and understanding. As we navigate
the diverse tapestry of Western Kenya, it's crucial to shed light on topics that foster compassion and
acceptance within our communities.

April marks Autism Awareness Month, a time dedicated to amplifying the voices of individuals on the
autism spectrum and advocating for their rights to be heard and respected. Autism, a complex neuro-
developmental condition, presents unique challenges and strengths for those living with it, as well as
their families and caregivers.

In Western Kenya, it's essential to recognize and support individuals with autism and their families.
Through education, empathy, and open dialogue, we can break down barriers and create a more inclu-
sive society where everyone feels valued and understood.

Let us celebrate the diversity within our communities and embrace the differences that make each of us
unique. Together, we can build a brighter future where individuals with autism thrive, contributing their
talents and perspectives to the rich tapestry of Western Kenya.

Lumi Investments proudly stands with the autism community, advocating for awareness, acceptance,
and equal opportunities for all. Join us in spreading kindness, understanding, and compassion this Au-
tism Awareness Month and beyond.

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TRENDING DEV-NEWS THIS WEEK
Kakamega: Amatsi Khumuliango
April 3, 2024
By County website administrator
H.E FCPA Fernandes Barasa this morning launched the drilling of
a borehole set to serve more than 3000 members of the disci-
plined forces and state guests at the Kakamega Police Headquar-
ters in Lurambi Sub-county.
This collaborative effort between the County Government of
Kakamega and the US Government is one among the direct out-
comes of the recently concluded Kakamega International Invest-
ment Conference.
In his address, the Governor said the County Government will
ensure solarization and last-mile connectivity of the project to
households as well as distribution of the water to nearby health
facilities and learning institutions.
Similar initiatives are underway in two other Sub-Counties —
Malava and Mumias East of which activities include borehole drill-
ing, spring protection, and water source mapping.
This initiative is in line with the Governor’s clarion call of the
water at the doorstep popularly known as, “Amatsi Khumulian-
go.”
Present were Regional Commissioner Mr. Irungu Macharia, Re-
gional Police Commander Mr. Paul Kiprono, County Commander
Mr. Joseph Kigen, CECM Water Mrs Peninah Mukabane, CS&HPS
Dr Lawrence Omuhaka, COS Mr Kassim Were, Director Water
Project Mr. Humphrey Buradi, among other senior officials from
both National and County Governments.
New face for Bungoma
Major repairs are planned for several of Bungoma town's main thoroughfares
before to June 1 Madaraka Day celebrations. The national government has
allocated money for infrastructure improvements, including the Matulo airfield
and roads.
During a visit to Bungoma County on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, Kipchumba
Murkomen, the cabinet secretary for roads and transport, stated that this is a
part of a larger plan to build more than 600 kilometers of roads in the area.
"Among the roads slated for improvements in time for the Madaraka Day fes-
tivities are the Matulo airstrip access road, Makutano River Khalaba (White
Rose) Road and Bungoma River-Khalaba Road, all of which will be upgraded to
bitumen standards," Murkomen said.
According to the CS, efforts to ensure smooth transportation during Madara-
ka Day celebrations are being made in conjunction with the Kenya National
Highway Authority (KeNHA), Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA), and
Kenya Urban Roads (Kura).
Webuye-Kitale and Mayoni-Bungoma-Kanduyi road maintenance are among
the road projects Murkomen revealed KeNHA was working on.
In order to improve connectivity and
spur economic growth, he an-
nounced plans to rehabilitate the
Malakisi bridge and approach roads,
which are currently in disrepair.
Kura is scheduled to enhance 28 kilometers of urban roads in Bungoma,
Kimilili, and Webuye towns, and another 30 kilometers are scheduled for
renovation in the upcoming fiscal year, according to the CS.
Murkomen emphasized the significance of infrastructure development in
advancing important industries like agriculture, tourism, and trade.
In addition, the CS guaranteed that the government will improve rural
connectivity, noting that 264 kilometers of rural roads are now being built
at a cost of Sh9.3 billion. Among these initiatives is the Lwakhakha Border
Post Road, which is now being built with the intention of increasing trade
and reducing traffic.
In addition, Murkomen revealed plans to expand the cargo rail services
between Naivasha and Malaba by adding passenger trains connecting Nai-
robi to other locations.
He mentioned continuous attempts to update railroad infrastructure, such
as the Standard Gauge Railway's (SGR) replacement of steel sleepers with
stronger concrete ones.
The CS reaffirmed the government's resolve to develop Bungoma County
into a significant transportation hub in order to promote regional eco-
nomic expansion and employment creation.
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AI: Pioneering the Path to Tomorrow
In the realm of technological advancements, Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands
as a beacon of innovation, heralding a future defined by unprecedented
capabilities and boundless possibilities. From streamlining daily tasks to
revolutionizing entire industries, AI has firmly established itself as the cor-
nerstone of the digital age.
At its core, AI refers to the simulation of human intelligence processes by
machines, encompassing a wide array of applications such as machine learn-
ing, natural language processing, computer vision, and robotics. What sets
AI apart is its ability to analyze vast amounts of data, identify patterns, and
make decisions with remarkable speed and accuracy, surpassing human
capabilities in many domains.
One of the most compelling aspects of AI lies in its capacity to adapt and
evolve over time. Through machine learning algorithms, AI systems can
continuously learn from new data, refining their performance and enhancing
their predictive capabilities. This iterative process not only enables AI to
tackle increasingly complex tasks but also empowers it to anticipate future
trends and challenges, thus driving innovation across various sectors.
In healthcare, AI is revolutionizing diagnostic processes, enabling early detec-
tion of diseases and personalized treatment plans. By analyzing medical imag-
ing scans, genetic data, and patient records, AI-powered systems can assist
healthcare professionals in making more informed decisions, leading to im-
proved patient outcomes and enhanced efficiency in healthcare delivery.
Moreover, AI is reshaping the landscape of education, offering personalized
learning experiences tailored to individual students' needs and learning
styles. Adaptive learning platforms powered by AI algorithms can dynamically
adjust lesson plans and instructional materials based on students' progress
and performance, fostering greater engagement and knowledge retention.
In the realm of business and industry, AI-driven automation is driving un-
precedented levels of efficiency and productivity. From manufacturing and
logistics to customer service and marketing, AI technologies are streamlining
processes, optimizing resource allocation, and unlocking new opportunities
for growth and innovation.
However, as we embark on this transformative journey into the future, it's
crucial to address ethical considerations and ensure that AI technologies are
developed and deployed responsibly. Transparency, accountability, and fair-
ness must be upheld to mitigate potential biases and ensure that AI serves
the collective good, benefiting society as a whole.
As we stand on the brink of a new era defined by AI-driven innovation, the
possibilities are truly limitless. By harnessing the power of AI to address
pressing challenges and unlock new opportunities, we can pave the way for a
brighter, more prosperous future for generations to come. Let us embrace
the transformative potential of AI and chart a course towards a future
where innovation knows no bounds.
Kwani ni Kesho: The Intersection of Technological Advance-
ment and Social Media's Impact on Society
In an era defined by rapid
technological innovation,
the future of social media
platforms holds immense
potential to shape the fabric
of society. As advance-
ments in artificial intelli-
gence, virtual reality, and
augmented reality continue to evolve, social media platforms are
poised to become increasingly immersive and interactive, trans-
forming the way we connect, communicate, and collaborate.
Social media companies are growing increasingly skilled at select-
ing material that is individualized to each user's tastes and inter-
ests thanks to the development of AI-powered algorithms. Alt-
hough this creates chances for more personalized advertising and
better user experiences, it also raises questions about infor-
mation manipulation and the growth of "echo chambers," where
people are only exposed to content that confirms their own
opinions.
Furthermore, the promise of more realistic and immersive social
interactions is presented by the incorporation of augmented reali-
ty and virtual reality technologies into social media platforms.
Advancements in virtual meetings, live events, and shared virtual
environments have the potential to create stronger connections
among users and transcend geographical borders. But they also
bring up issues of identification, privacy, and the blending of virtu-
al and real worlds. Social media's influence on society will grow as
a result of technology developments as well as cultural norms,
legal restrictions, and ethical considerations.
It is imperative that we proactively address issues such as data
privacy, algorithmic bias, and online misinformation to ensure that
social media platforms serve as tools for positive social change
rather than sources of division and harm.
In navigating the future of social media, we must embrace a multi-
disciplinary approach that combines technological innovation with
ethical considerations and human-centered design principles. By
harnessing the power of technology responsibly and inclusively,
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Who is A Man of Awesome Power? Featuring Naguib Mahfouz

Naguib mahfouz’s A Man of Awesome Power presents Tayyib al-Mahdi, a man who is blessed with sacred pow-
er. Tayyib, retired in his apartment in Nasr city, gets a dream, utilizes the awesome power and misuses the
power that leads to him losing the awesome power later.

Tayyib lives a comfortable life after he retires. He spends his time on television, reading newspapers or listening
to the radio. One night, Tayyib dreams about a visitation by a man of radiant appearance who speaks to him
informing him that God has willed him the power to order things to be and they would be. He dismisses the
dream like it is any other dream but the dream peculiarly recurs frequently. He however confirms the awesome
powers by ordering his television to switch channels to his dismay.

Also read: Keeping Secrets in a Relationship Can Lead

to Consequences
Armed with his newly acquired power, he sets out to reform the world just like he had wished for long. Tayyib
utilizes his power by punishing a taxi driver who ignores him by use of an accident where the rear wheels ex-
ploded. He also causes a man who had assaulted a woman in a bus to suffer stomach cramps. He also fills a gap-
ing pothole, locks an electric box and moves a pile of rubbish. He also causes a radio announcer to sneeze after
making negative announcements. Sulayman, a political leader, who had evaded tax is made to go pay tax and
repent to the tax prosecutor.

When Tayyib however notices a beautiful, gorgeous and enticing woman at the entrance of the tea garden and
uses ability to satisfy his desires for her. This unfortunate immorality costs Tayyib’s power and it ends sadly
when he realizes he can’t change the channels on his television.

Naguib Mahfouz presents us with the realization that one can acquire life changing capabilities at any stage in
life. Tayyib, a retiree, get energized again albeit at his late years when he thought he had finished his mission. In
the middle of his peaceful life with a generous insurance and pension, he is given power.

Power is also given by God. Tayyib says that “all praise to God, Lord of the worlds” bringing out his pious na-
ture. He also listens to radio programmes devoted to the Quaran and the man who visists him in the dream
talks of God’s will. God given power should be utilsed for good and not for evil. When Tayyib misuses his pow-
er and engages in immorality, the power is withdrawn.

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Harmonizing Cultures: Exploring the Melodies of Western Kenya

By The Western KE reporter
A rich tapestry of cultures, interwoven with elements of innovation and tradition, may be found in the center of
Western Kenya. The soul-stirring rhythms of the region's musicians, who act as both curators of tradition and trail-
blazers of artistic expression, reverberate amid the verdant landscapes and vibrant communities.

Music is more than simply a kind of entertainment; it's a language that breaks down borders and brings people to-
gether, from the shores of Lake Victoria to the busy streets of Kisumu. A narrative of resiliency, joy, and belonging
can be heard in every drum beat and guitar strumming.
As varied as the people who live in Western Kenya, the region's musical environment offers a wide variety of
styles, from modern Afro-fusion to traditional Isukuti and Luo benga. The artists themselves are at the center of
this musical rebirth; their enthusiasm and commitment give each performance life. One such legend is the famed
Luo musician Prince Indah, whose ageless songs have mesmerized listeners for decades. Kabaselleh keeps the
spirit of traditional Luo music alive while inspiring a new generation of musicians with his unique guitar riffs and
beautiful vocals.
However, there isn't just one type or style found in Western Kenya's music scene. Hip-hop, reggae, and
afrobeat are blended by up-and-coming musicians to create a uniquely Kenyan sound that appeals to listeners
both domestically and beyond. Outside the walls of recording studios and performance spaces, music in Western
Kenya is a driving force behind social transformation and female emancipation. Groups such as Ghetto Classics
and Ketebul Music are devoted to educating and mentoring young people from impoverished backgrounds
through music, utilizing the transformative potential of music to elevate societies and promote constructive
transformation.
Upcoming musicians, not just in Western Kenya but beyond, are
using African sounds in their music. Despite being colonized by
the west especially America and the influence that their style
has on Africans, young musicians have begun moving away from
the westernized styles and are embracing the African style.
As we celebrate the rich musical heritage of Western Kenya, let
us also recognize the invaluable contributions of its musicians—
not only as entertainers but as ambassadors of culture, catalysts
for change, and custodians of tradition. In their melodies, we
find the heartbeat of a region—a testament to the resilience,
creativity, and spirit of the people of Western Kenya.

Top 21 Luhya songs on my playlist that you or your mum might love

1. Awinja - Sauti Sol

2. Mbe Omukhasi - Steve Kay 11. Mukangala - Jacob Luseno
3. Mulongo - Kayamba Roots 12. Wambumuli - Steve Kay
4. Tindikiti Yaya - David Barasa 13. Bukula Indika - Ongidi Vincent
ft Webuye Jua Kali 14. Khutsi Ingo - Jacob Luseno
5. Mama Mulayi - Ongidi Vincent 15. Bayudah - Steve Kay
6. Sila Wa Sila- Elaini Kando 16. My Dear - Webuye Jua Kali Band
7. Sena Lwanyi - Emmanuel 17. Amapesa - Sukuma Bin Ongaro
Musindi 18. Chapa Ilale - Wilber Wanyama
8. Bindu Bichenjanga - Amos Barasa 19. Endika - Samuel Namatete
9. Khalikha - David M. Barasa 20. Siananda Wefwe - Kenneth Khaemba
10. Lipala - Kayamba Roots 21. Mumoyo– Matata 24
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There is also the content aspect of African music that has really grown over time. Today, music is not only meant
for entertainment but also for communication. African musicians have started incorporating powerful messages in
their songs as a way of creating awareness about a certain phenomenon or calamity. This is important because
through the songs, people learn about one thing or another and thus appreciate the song. Omuwami’s song for
malaria for example creates awareness about Malaria, a disease that has become a phenomenal problem considering
the number of people that have died from it. According to Dr. Ngugi, a physician in Kenya, the song has had a great
impact because people are now doing what the song tells them to. Sleeping under their nets, keeping their sur-
roundings clean among other key measures that Omuwami has pointed out in her song are the things that people
are doing to curb the spread of malaria. All thanks to the song.
To sum it all up, one thing is for sure. The future of African music is bright. A lot of things are happening from the
technological advancement to the positive change of people’s attitudes and belief systems to the nurturing of talents
and even the studying of music as a subject in African schools and all these will see African music go to greater
heights in terms of quality. It is therefore important that media airplay is increased for African music in media hous-
es because through that, publicity of African songs will sprout and as such help in the development of African music.

RENTALS
Attention all renters! Before handing over any payment for a rental property, it's crucial to do your due diligence to avoid potential scams.
Always verify the legitimacy of the landlord or property manager, double-check the property's ownership and rental agreement details, and visit
the property in person if possible. Don't hesitate to ask for references or reviews from previous tenants and ensure all communication is
conducted through official channels. Protect yourself and your finances by confirming the authenticity of the rental offer before making any
payments. Stay vigilant and stay safe! #RentalScamAwareness #DueDiligence.

Kakamega Bungoma
2BR near Shitaho Area at Kshs 15000 2BR behind Total along Mumias road
2BR at Kefinco at Kshs 20,000 Kshs 15000
1BR at Joyland at Kshs 8000 2BR Kanduyi Kshs 15000
1BR at Sichirai near stage Mandazi at Kshs 8000 2BR Mayanja Vitunguu Kshs 15000
1BR at Amalemba Scheme Kshs 8000
1BR near Keringet hotel Kshs 8,000
1BR modern at Sichirai at Kshs 10000
1BR Chepkube Kshs 7000
1BR modern at Shikhambi Kshs 13,000
1BR Kanduyi Kshs 6500
1BR Shikhambi on Maisha Mart road Kshs 10,000
1BR at Ikonyero behind One Acre at Kshs 8500 1BR Mteremko road Kshs 7000
Bedsitter at Ikonyero behind One Acre at Kshs 6500 Bedsitter along Lusaka Road Kshs 7500
Bedsitter at Sichirai near stage Mandazi at Kshs 6000 Business stalls JB Archade near Keringet
Single room at Ejinja corner at Kshs 3000 Kshs 7000
Own compound at Amalemba Kshs 18,000

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EVENTS
Do you have an event in Western Kenya that you’d like to share for free? Reach out via email:
lymilimited@gmail.com or WhatsApp: +254786404109. Terms and conditions apply for other advertisements

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 A Lumi Investments
Production
Mumias-Kakamega highway
Ejinja corner, Kakamega
To Advertise with us,
Email: lymilimited@gmail.com
WhatsApp: +254786404109
Utilizing and Simplifying
COMMUNICATION
Lumi Investments
Join the Conversation:
In essence, The Western KE Observer is more
than just a publication—it's a catalyst for com-
munity engagement, cultural preservation, and
economic empowerment in Western Kenya.
Whether you're a reader, event organizer, or
business owner, there's a place for you in this
vibrant tapestry of stories, events, and opportu-
nities.
Join us on this journey as we celebrate the spirit
of Western Kenya and strive to make a differ-
ence, one story at a time. Welcome to The
Western KE Observer—your window into the
soul of Western Kenya.
Introducing The Western KE Observer: A Gateway
to Western Kenya's Stories, Events, and Businesses
Lumi Investments is proud to announce the launch of our
latest endeavor, "The Western KE Observer" — a pioneer-
ing weekly publication dedicated to illuminating the rich tap-
estry of life in Western Kenya. With an unwavering commit-
ment to authenticity and community, our publication aims
to celebrate the diverse stories, events, and businesses that
define this dynamic region. As we embark on this exciting
journey, we invite the people of Western Kenya to join us
in celebrating the stories, events, and businesses that make
our region truly exceptional. Whether you're a lifelong resi-
dent or a curious visitor, "The Western KE Observer" wel-
comes you to explore, engage, and connect with the vibrant
spirit of Western Kenya. Stay tuned for our inaugural issue,
coming soon to newsstands and digital platforms near you!
Like us on our Facebook page, Lumi Investments, X as Lumi
investments and on Instagram @lumi.giftshop
Capturing the Essence of Western Kenya:
At the core of The Western KE Observer's ethos is its commit-
ment to storytelling. Each edition is a tapestry woven with tales of
resilience, innovation, and cultural richness that define the tapes-
try of Western Kenya. From the bustling markets of Kisumu to
the serene landscapes of Kakamega, every page is an invitation to
delve into the vibrant tapestry of Western Kenya's diverse com-
munities.
Through in-depth features, interviews, and photo essays, The
Western KE Observer sheds light on the untold stories of individ-
uals, families, and communities that shape the region's identity.
Whether it's profiling local artisans preserving traditional crafts or
highlighting grassroots initiatives driving social change, the publica-
tion serves as a platform for voices often overlooked by main-
stream media.
Empowering Local Businesses:
Furthermore, The Western KE Observer is a powerful platform
for businesses looking to reach a targeted audience in Western
Kenya. With dedicated advertising space, sponsored content op-
portunities, and business spotlights, the publication offers a unique
avenue for entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services
to a loyal readership base.
Whether it's a boutique hotel in Kakamega, Busia, Homa Bay, a
family-owned farm in Bungoma, or a tech startup in Eldoret, The
Western KE Observer amplifies the voices of local businesses and
connects them with potential customers across the region.
Through strategic partnerships and promotional initiatives, the
publication contributes to the economic growth and sustainability
of Western Kenya's business ecosystem.
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