kemra Final SPREADS LOW
Transcription
kemra Final SPREADS LOW
Kenya Motor Repairers Association ISSUE 003 JANUARY - MARCH, 2016 FREE COPY Our Love For Vintage Cars Female Biker: Just Call Me Warush CAR REVIEW: Battle of the big & bulky beasts DADDY OWEN: DRIVING ON THE FAST LANE K e m r a /JA N -MAR 2016 1. How Post Election Violence reduced me to ashes: Garage Owner word from from chairman We are bigger and better! For the last two years we have witnessed growth of over 70 per cent. Today, we are proud to have 110 members drawn from all regions in the country. M ay I take this opportunity to thank the Executive Committee members for their tireless effort and commitment in serving and growing the association. May I also thank the secretariat for their diligence and hard work in ensuring that the association is functioning optimally. I cannot forget to thank and appreciate all our members for their contribution and commitment. The efforts of the three stakeholders mentioned above have immensely contributed to the success of KEMRA in many ways. One of the major successes in the past two years is the growth in numbers. We have witnessed phenomenal growth with new members joining the association. For the last two years, we have witnessed growth of over 70 per cent from year to year. Today we are 110 members. We have also managed to get members from all the regions ranging from Mombasa, Kisumu, Meru, and most parts of the country. As far as our mission is concerned with professionalising automotive repair industry, we have achieved a number of standards through Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) to help in that regard. Going forward, we would like to entrench professionalism by getting government intervention even if it means an Act of Parliament to regulate the industry so that we are able to nurture skills and competence in automotive repairs. We are in the process of registering all automotive repair professionals to establish an inventory of skills and capability in the industry. It is our strong belief that automotive repairs industry if well-developed can grow the capacity to produce motor vehicle components and finally manufacture our own Kenyan vehicles. This will go a long way in converting our culture of consumerism in automotives to a culture of producing and hence tapping into the pool of young talented Kenyans who are otherwise not gainfully employed. It is our strong belief that automotive repairs industry can grow the capacity to produce motor vehicle components and manufacture our own Kenyan vehicles Eng. Bernard Ngore, Chairman, KEMRA +254790332222/+254790913333 K e m r a /JAN- MAR 2016 3. INSIDE>>> CONTENTS Word from SEC GEN Word from CEO KEMRA will fight Insurance Fraud K Our core business is setting high standards A s the apex body of the motor repairing and allied, we have a lot of insights in what goes on in Kenyan transport industry. As KEMRA, we are represented across the country and we get many insights on matters automotive. We know the quality of cars and insurers in terms of claims settlement. We also get to know so much about insurance brokers in the market. Further, we also understand the driving habits and many other issues on our roads. We also know so much about the nature and practice of assessment as we are at the end of the chain and can easily tell about underwriting habits and so on. In a nutshell, there is so much intelligence about vehicles, insuring, repairs, driving habits, parts and the general conduct of the trade. The auto sector in totality contributes a huge chunk of Kenya’s GDP. This is in trend with other countries of the world. In developed countries such as USA, UK, Australia, Germany and Japan, the auto industry is a critical segment in the Kenya Motor Repairers Association K emr a /JAN-MAR 20 1 6 out programmes across the nation and we are building requisite capacities in membership and competence amongst members. Besides, raising standards among our members, we are keen in contributing to the safety of motoring public and other road users. We at KEMRA are very keen to contribute to the development of Kenya and the larger Africa for a prosperous future. At KEMRA be assured we are striving to raise the bar on standards. Joseph Njenga SECRETARY GENERAL BOARD MEMBERS ENG. -BERNARD NGORE JAMES KOGI - CHAIRMAN - VICE CHAIRMAN 4. industrial set-up and productivity. Therefore, this infers the need to properly guide and take care of the industry. It should be noted that auto repair is a critical cog in ensuring road safety and productivity in a nation. Whenever a vehicle is properly repaired or maintained, it not only ensures a peace of mind to the user but also assures on performance and hence productivity. Poorly repaired vehicles not only change the standards and structure of the vehicles but are also a danger to the users and others on the road. This is one problem that any nation would want to address. In Kenya, there are all manner of repairers. There are good schools for training but so much is learnt through apprenticeship or practically. Furthermore, training in poorly equipped institutions is no guarantee that you get competent technicians. It requires proper practical experience besides the theoretical learning and conceptualisation of the workings of an automobile. This is one of the reasons KEMRA is very keen in the development of the industry. We are currently rolling JOSEPH NJENGA - SECRETARY GENERAL GEORGE KARIUKI - ASST. SEC GENERAL RUDOLF D’COSTA -TREASURER enyan media has continually reported fraud afflicting insurance companies. The regulator, Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) has also sent alarm bells ringing over what they term as increasing fraud especially those affecting motor and medical claims. 3 | Special messages Likewise, billions are lost annually Word from KEMRA Board in the banking industry as well as re6 | News tail sector, especially the supermarket ICT comes to class and much more chains. Fraud in these arenas is often perpetrated by employees or with the help of conmen and fraudsters. It is 8 |Special Feature a good guess that the fraud afflicting Why we love our vintage cars the insurance industry has similar 24 Hero Ridder patterns. Well, I have some insights on 10 | We Money the insurance industry having had my rideTalk to live, not to die. Understanding exchange rate dynamics formative working years there. Strive to get the best gear you can Indeed, the industry moulded me as a junior employee until now. I have 12 | Car Doctor receipted premiums, done a bit of cusWhy regular visits to the mechanic could Leadership on the 28 tomer service, underwriting, accountsave your car ing, finance management, business road analysis and risk management. I have 14 | Cover Story focuses on the mandaalso had a stint in product pricing, asGroove Awards winner Daddy Owen on his tory legislative requireset management, operations, business ments, safety love of sleek carspersonal support among others. During this prudent measures 20 | and Business Reflections journey, I interacted with diverse exfor any rider to be on the Take stock of your business in 2016 perts, customers and regulators. I have road. Meeting these chalalso worked in industries that have lenges close ties with insurance firms. 22| Inspiration I can authoritatively state that Turning your business dreams into reality insurance is a good industry with Michael Desouza 30 enormous opportunities. However, it 23 | How Car Review I got my life back is marred with numerous challenges, Big beasts battle it out fraud being one of them. One of the Stress Free Ridig 32 problems facing Kenya today is the 25 | Divas lane the insurer culture of yearning for free things and Tips from Tribulations of a female driver on Kenyan enormous riches without working roads hard. This destructive problem has 35 SEAN CARDOVILLIS permeated our society and sabotaged development. Nonetheless, to tackle Stung by the riding bug 26 | Road Safety this menace, there is need for a diverTop 10 rules motorists should have at sified approach. To minimise or elimtheir fingertips STYLEZ 41 inate DJ insurance fraud, insurers own internal mechanisms, law enforcing The King of Speed 27 | Shedriver agencies and service providers must Woman ruling Nairobi streets on her be involved in the claim process. Just motorbike as the government has found it pru dent to deploy multi-agency plus the private sector in tackling the corrup30 | KEMRA Membership tion menace, the same should happen Full list of KEMRA members in eliminating the bad elements from the claims management cycle. 33| Pictorial When it comes to motor claims, this Catch KEMRA team in action is a case of two industries that need to work hand in hand as siblings with common interest. If as alleged, there are unethical practices there is need for professional conduct. Fortunately, the insurers have a powerful lobby called Association of Kenya Insurers (AKI) and Kenya Motor Repairers Association (KEMRA) whose aim is to professionalise the repair trade. Even though KEMRA and AKI have been discussing a number of pertinent issues, there’s a need for the relationship to go a notch higher and for the insurers themselves to take remedial measures if they have to stem the malpractices from their industry. Nonetheless, there have been steps in the right direction as according to IRA some insurance criminal have been nabbed and prosecuted. Without working together for mutual benefit, some criminal elements benefit from shortcomings in the system. In a nutshell, a stronger multi-industry relationship is inferred if players have to survive the turbulent nature of some of the products within the context of prevailing social economic conditions in the country. It’s not easy to eliminate criminal Hero Ridder 24 activities but closer collaboration and We ride to live,professionals not to die. dealing with accredited Strive to get the bestsysgear who are answerable to a robust you can tem can offer solutions. KICKER HERE atisi ex el Orperit ad tet, qui te fe KICKER HERE atisi ex el Orperit ad tet, qui te fe KICKER HERE atisi ex el Orperit ad tet, qui te fe PETER KAMAU -MEMBER 34 | My Story How my garage business survived Post Election Violence Published By: Maridadi Creatives for KEMRA Tel: +254 723 101 648 Leadership on the Harrison Ikunda CEO, 28 Mr. KEMRA road focuses on the mandatory legislative requirements, Design: personal safety and prudent Nijoh Creations measures Tel: +254 726 00 73 14 for any rider to be K e m r a /JAN- MAR 2016 5. News News ICT FOR SCHOOLS It’s all systems go for 2016 cba Africa concours d’elegance T he Kenya Motor Sport Federation (KMSF) has set September 25th for the 2016 CBA Africa Concours d’Elegance in the new motor sport calendar. The event will be the fifth to be sponsored by the Commercial Bank of Africa (CBA) and will be held by the Alfa Romeo Owners Club at the Nairobi Racecourse. Since the formation of the Club in 1970 a Concours has been held each year as an anniversary celebration. Minor changes have been made to the regulations which have been approved by the KMSF. The regulations will soon be posted on the event website (www.concourskenya.com) and printed copies will be available for distribution prior to the official launch. This is likely to be held in the last week of February and will feature the Premiere of the CBA Africa Concours d’Elegance TV programme. The regulations for 2016 list 20 classes for all types of cars and motorcycles. Because of the diversity of the ages and makes of the competing vehicles, originality is not taken into consideration in their assessment. The judging is based entirely on cleanliness, condition and the standards of preparation. The judging process for cars starts on the Total Quartz inspection ramp with a check on the underside. Competitors then 6. K emr a /JAN-MAR 20 1 6 drive in front of the Racecourse grand stands stopping for checks of the paintwork, interior and engine. The marking of motorcycles is carried out in a similar way at the Racecourse parade ring. Recognising the current harsh economic environment, no change has made to the entry fees. Emphasis has been placed on encouraging newcomers to prepare their cars and motorcycles for the classiest event on the motor sport calendar and to attract more overseas entries by the provision of special prizes. Last year, there were 23 competitors from outside Kenya at the Racecourse who came from Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania and Uganda. The 2016 CBA Africa Concours d’Elegance will be the tenth to be recognized and sanctioned by the FIM.AFRICA. The event has full continental status for both cars and motorcycles and showcases Kenya as a country which has the capability to hold international motoring events. Overseas news coverage helps to showcase Kenya as a holiday destination which offers special interest vacations in addition to seaside and safari visits. GENUINE NEW SPARES GIVE CONFIDENCE AND SAVE MONEY D espite the increasing pressure on personal and household budgets under the current tough economic conditions, thoughtful vehicle owners fit genuine new spares covered by warranties. This practice gives confidence in the reliability of cars and trucks and saves money in the long run. Talking on this subject Simion Babos, the Parts General Manager of DT Dobie, said, “The temptation to buy spares for the lowest price should be resisted because it often causes mechanical problems which can affect safety and addition expenses.” “Buying genuine spares from appointed vehicle dealers is the best choice. This maintains the safety and reliability of your car, or truck and the parts are covered by a warranty.” “Faced by shortage of funds, some motorists turn to replacement and used parts. These are priced lower than the genuine items and are often sold in packets carrying manufacturers’ brand names and logos. If they are priced much less than genuine parts, they are likely to be fakes and most certainly do not have a warranty.” “Some unscrupulous freelance mechanics obtain used parts which have been taken from accident write-offs and vehicles which have been sold for scrap. These are to be avoided because their working life has already been reduced and they are likely to fail. A vehicle fitted with suspect spares can easily cause break downs and accidents.” He continued, “Apart from the limitations of low priced replacement parts and used items, there is the tedious search to source them. Instead of visiting several suppliers to find one part, or paying someone to deal with this task, it is much easier, faster and trouble free to buy from an authorized vehicle dealer.” “Our DT Dobie parts department stocks 12,000 line items for the Mercedes Benz, Jeep and Volkswagen vehicles which we sell and service. Trained staff locate parts for customers in a matter of minutes and the ready availability of spares is both convenient and time saving.” Summing up Simion Babos concluded, “Experience has convinced me that motorists should buy only new genuine spares from recognized dealers. It pays to avoid the temptation of having a short term saving by paying lower prices for replacement and used parts. Why give yourself potential causes of trouble which can easily lead to additional expenses?” Total Kenya Limited donated ICT equipment consisting of scanners, central processing units, monitors, printers, laptops and other assorted equipment to Computers For Schools Kenya (CFSK) for refurbishment and distribution to schools. Dr. Tom Musili (left), Founder Director of CFSK received part of the consignment from Premenand Dhoomon (centre), the Finance Director at Total Kenya Limited and Joseph King’ola (right), the Information Technology Manager. TJ & U Auto is the leading provider of auto repair and maintenance services in Nairobi. We pride ourselves in providing a vast array of exceptional services including: Car Painting Specialists Computerised Diagnostics Complete Body & Frame Repairs Computerised Wheel Alighnments Complete Autorepair & Services Its all about you! TJ & U Auto Garage, Buruburu phase 1, Along Rabai Rd. Tel: +254 20 250 1972 Cel: +254 20 721 222585 K e mEmail: r a /JANMAR 2016 7. [email protected] SpecialFeature Our Love For Vintage Cars weddings. The Chair says, “the idea was actually to offer cheaper alternative for weddings instead of going for costly limos and range rovers. The more of our vehicles you hire the cheaper the rates.” While their charges are negotiable depending on the type of wedding, Nyaga points out that the cost ranges between Sh15,000 to Sh35,000 per beetle. This has seen the group receive invita- C ar bazaar owners are on a roll. They are not leaving anything to chance with their state of the art vehicles which they proudly display and auction at the drop of a hat. The competition is arguably inspired the sudden surge of people to acquire sleek vehicles. Old models which had been pushed to the back burner and were out of the market have suddenly re-emerged. Take for instance Volkswagen Beetle which was popular back in 80’s. Well, a group of youthful Kenyans have decided to rescue the beetles from extinction. Volkswagen Anonymous Classic Club of Kenya is a group of 30 members aged 8. K emr a /JAN-MAR 20 1 6 between 25 and 40 who all own beetles. Henry Nyaga the group’s chairman explains, “The group was formed around 2009 with the aim of bringing together owners of the vintage cars for building and restoration of the vehicles.” Initially, the group would converge to discuss their machines including where to get genuine spare parts and reliable mechanics in town but with time, they realized that apart from recruiting members and beetle lovers they could direct their energies to charity events in aide of vulnerable children in the society. One such event dubbed ‘Bite the Dust for Charity’ conducted by the group in collaboration with their Dutch Friends is slated for June 2016 and is expected to be tions from as far Mombasa. When they go out of town, the charges increase and the client must accommodate the group. To ensure that the club keeps running the money earned from each vehicle goes to the club’s account but sometimes members share the spoils. Not every Tom, Dick and Harry can join the club as there are strict requirements that must be met before one is given a nod. This includes recommendation by one of the members, love for vintage and the potential member must vow to be available whenever the club needs them. “The car must be air-cooled (vehicles that do not use water instead oil). A beetle that meets the club’s standards costs anything from Sh250, 000 upwards says Nyaga adding that maintenance and running costs are minimal for those who have reached daily driver standards. of its kind. Nyaga shares, “We will drive all the way to Mombasa via the bush between June 1 and 6 this year to raise awareness and funds for wildlife conservation. We will also give donations to two other causes that are dearest to our hearts like Teule Children’s home in Loitoktok and Verkaaat Orphans’ School in Kwale.” He adds, “The journey will take us through the bush into the Kenyan wilderness and national parks. It will begin from Nairobi and end at the Indian Ocean. Meanwhile, we will visit and even spend the night at the projects we support.” The club which is slightly over five years, have also ventured into business of events. Their vehicles are cheaply hired for K e m r a /JAN- MAR 2016 9. MoneyTalk An Introduction to Exchange Rate Dynamics BY Joseph Kivuva Makau Q . What is Exchange Rate? A. The exchange rate is defined as ‘the rate at which one country’s currency (in this context the KES) may be converted into another currency (US dollar- USD, Ugandan Shilling-UGX…..etc.) The exchange rate may fluctuate day to day due to the varying market forces of demand and supply of currencies. A country with a lower inflation than another country does will see an appreciation of its currency in relation to the other country’s currency. Q.What factors affect the Exchange Rate A.Some of the leading factors affecting the exchange rate are explained below. Inflation Rate ….Inflation is defined as the relative increase in the price of goods and services in a country…. A country with a lower inflation than another country does will see an appreciation of its currency in relation to the other country’s currency. For example if Kenya had a lower inflation rate than Uganda, the Kenya shilling will appreciate against the Ugandan Shilling. Interest Rates An increase in interest rates causes the country’s currency to appreciate as higher interest rates attract foreign capital. Public Debt This is debt owned by the central government. A country that borrows locally from its people and institutions is less likely to acquire foreign capital. Heightened domestic debt crowds out* private investments and can be inflationary. Foreign investors will exit the market in order to prevent erosion of their investments due to high inflation and as a result there will be a 10. K emr a /JAN-MAR 20 1 6 and major imports are Fuel and Lubricants, Industrial supplies, machinery and capital equipment. When the values of a country’s imports are more than the value of its exports, a country is using more foreign currency to pay for its imports that what it receives from its exports and this causes a depreciation of the exchange rate. decrease in the value of the exchange rate. *crowding out is an economic theory stipulating that rises in public sector spending drive down or even eliminate private sector spending consequently attracting foreign capital through foreign direct investments and capital investments. Flow of foreign exchange into the country will lead to an appreciation in the value of the exchange rate. Political Stability & Economic Performance A country’s political stability plays a critical role in the dynamics of a country’s exchange rate. A politically sound country creates an enabling environment for business to thrive Current Account Deficit A country has a high current account deficit when the value of its imports exceeds the value of its exports. Kenya’s main exports are Tea, Coffee and fresh Horticultural produce Terms of Trade Terms of trade are the ratio of the price of exports to the price of imports. The exchange rate appreciates when price of a country’s exports are greater than the the price of imports. Q. What do the terms weak Kenya Shilling (KES) and strong KES mean? A. The two terms, weak KES and strong KES, are generalizations used in the foreign exchange market to describe the relative value and strength of the KES against other currencies. A strengthening KES is one in which the KES has increased in value compared to another currency in context the US dollar. This means that the KES now buys more of the US dollar than it did before. A weakening KES is the opposite as it means the KES has fallen in value compared to the US dollar- making the KES buy less of the US dollar. Q. What does a strong KES or a Weak KES mean to my business? For businesses that import goods, a strong KES means that they pay less for the goods they import. For exporters, it’s the opposite; a strong KES makes the goods they export expensive and this hurts them those employed in the exporting industries. Q. What has been the performance of the Kenya Shilling to the US dollar? A. Since December 2013 the KES has been depreciating against the US dollar, until June 2015 the pace of depreciation was modest and posed no immediate risk to exchange rate stability, however from June 2015 the fall was rapid forcing central bank to intervene by increasing interest rates because a further decline would have a negative effect on the economy. Factors leading to the depreciation of the shilling include the downturn in the price of tea (Kenya’s main commodity Export), weaker tourism inflows because of security risks, high current account deficit, high public debt due to government running on high budget deficits and external forces including the strength of the dollar, the prospect of US monetary tightening, slower growth in China and uncertainties in the euro zone. The Author is a Fixed Income Investment Analyst at Alpha Africa Asset Management Email: [email protected] K e m r a /JAN- MAR 2016 11. CARDOCTOR CARDOCTOR Systems integration is the backbone of efficient motor manufacturing industry By Amos Okwemba [email protected] together and efficiently, it ensures smooth running of assembling process and hence, reduce challenges. In short, this means that good system integration facilitates proper management in the manufacturing factory. S ystems integration is defined as the process of bringing together all the component subsystems into one large system and making sure the systems work together to achieve a common goal meant by the manufacturer. System integration also advances technologies for intelligent, or predictive, monitoring and control of processes, and accelerate progress in efforts to achieve plug-and-play compatibility among equipment, processes, and information management systems, an emphasis that complements other manufacturing efforts. In the manufacturing industry, the system integrator brings together discrete systems using the various techniques available in the assembly of the motor vehicles. Systems integration in the manufacturing of motor vehicles largely depends on the technology used in the industry. However, despite the technology used, there are some challenges that are faced. Coordination with all the subsystems to achieve an integrated system is one of the challenges. Changes made in a particular department of the subsystems should be communicated to the whole team. System integration is prudent in the various assembly processes, which are developing economical, modular systems for body and powertrain assembly that can be implemented (or reconfigured) within 4 to 6 months, as compared with today’s average of 24 to 36 months, and improve technologies for controlling paint and coating processes. There are various sub-systems that need to be integrated for proper working of the assembling and repairing of motor vehicles industry. These subsystems include: Computer systems analysts This team works with the computer systems to improve manufacturing efficiency. They help in putting in place the machinery 12. K emr a /JAN-MAR 20 1 6 2. Maintenance and operations No doubt, non-functioning sensors and failure of system integration leads to waste of time and resources. In the assembling of motor vehicles, all the departments need to communicate and facilitate proper system integration to prevent the possible wear and tear that would be caused in case of poor communication and response and also, poor cooperation within a subsystem. The operations of the industry would also be affected once the subsystems don’t work towards their integration. Good system integration would facilitate good operations of all the departments and the whole industry as a whole. and the tools needed for the assembly line in the vehicle production. Management workers This team establishes guidelines for the design of motor vehicles to provide direction to the teams of experts in engineering, design, marketing, sales, finance, and production. From the earliest stages of planning and design, these specialists help assess whether the vehicle will satisfy consumer demand, meet safety and environmental regulations, and prove economically practical to make. These executives also serve as public representatives for the company. They are the face of the company. Industrial production managers They oversee first-line supervisors and managers of production and operating workers. These supervisors are in-charge of inspectors, precision workers, machine setters and operators, assemblers, fabricators, and plant and system operators. They coordinate a variety of manufacturing processes and production activities, including scheduling, staffing, equipment, quality control, and inventory control. Assemblers, fabricators, metal workers and plastic workers put together various parts to form subassemblies, and then put the subassemblies together to build a complete motor vehicle. Most assemblers in this industry are team assemblers, who may work on a variety of tasks as needed. Some may perform other routine tasks such as mounting and inflating tires; adjusting brakes; and adding gas, oil, brake fluid, and coolant. Welding, soldering, and brazing workers are needed for welding and for maintenance and repair purposes. Machinists produce precision metal parts that are made in numbers too small to produce with automated machinery. Tool and die makers produce tools, dies, and special guiding and holding devices used in machines. Among other subsystems apart from the ones mentioned, ensure a clear and common understanding among all the various subsystems in the assembly. Unfortunately, in most cases, their functions are overlooked. There are various benefits of good and appropriate integration of systems in the assembling of motor vehicles. 1. Proper management Establishing accurate target set points for manufactures involved in the assembling of the motor vehicles and repairing them is a key function of the system integration. When all subsystems involved work 3.Improving efficiency Systems integration is important since it ensures different systems are integrated into one architecture, which saves time and energy. Once all the subsystems work together, it improves the efficiency of assembling and even saving on cost. A manufacturing industry, particularly, a motor vehicle assembly and repair is key to efficient and productive performance of the manufactures in producing the vehicles and repairing them. The writer is the ICT and Communication Strategy Consulting Director for Africa and the Middle East at Impact Consulting Group. Impact Consultancy Group has operations in over seven countries in Africa and the Middle East. It is a think tank of 15 multi-nationals and business restructuring firms. It is a consultancy firm of several companies engaging the expertise of ICT, Finance, Banking, Communication, Strategy and Business Processes Re-engineering. K e m r a /JAN- MAR 2016 13. COVERSTORY COVERSTORY Daddy Owen: My dream car is a power house O By KEMRA TEAM wen Mwatia commonly known as Daddy Owen was born was born in a Christian family. Coming from a humble background Owen was not able to hit the limelight at the beginning of his musical journey. He had started singing way back in high school but getting funds became a big deal. Later on in life, his brother Rufftone and his family was able to uplift him and support his career financially and spiritually. The late Gospel artiste Kaberere also mentored him. Nevertheless, Daddy Owen has risen to become one of Kenya’s celebrated artiste after winning numerous awards. KEMRA caught up with him in the busy streets of Nairobi. He opens up about his life away from music and his love of sleek cars. Tell us about your first car It was a VW Passat, and it sure served me for a long time. Finally I could enjoy the fruits of my labour and move around without giving so much money to cab drivers. I worked hard for it because the moment I started doing gospel and getting called for shows, I needed reliable means of transport. How much did it cost? Since I didn’t have so much money to splurge on a new car, let’s just say it was affordable enough for a first time car owner. What did you love about the VW Passat? I loved the convenience it provided since I could now move around town and attend concerts. Secondly, with its fuel tank at 2.0 CC, I must say it was not a fuel guzzler. So, tell us about your first road trip. My first road trip was from Nairobi to 14. K emr a /JAN-MAR 20 1 6 Eldoret for a performance. I finally got the chance to engage with my car features to the maximum. I was able to test the speed, fuel consumption, stability and so much more. What’s your worst experience on the road? Driving from Eldoret to Kakamega was quite eventful. The potholes on that road can make a driver postpone their journey. Also, the road trip to Kampala Uganda was chaotic due to human traffic and many boda bodas. Where did you acquire your driving skills? Initially, like many young men, I learnt my driving from the hood. I had older friends who had cars so we always tried them out. I later went to driving school and got my driving licence. Obviously your life has changed after winning numerous awards. What are you currently driving? I don’t want to get into so much details for fear of being stalked. But let’s say, I am comfortable with my current choice of car. Are you driving your dream car? My dream car is the Aston Martin DB 10. That car is a power house and I’m sure it would feel great to drive around No, it’s not my dream car yet, although it once was. Currently my dream car is the Aston Martin DB 10. That car is a power house and I’m sure it would feel great to drive it around and interact with its features. Who would you leave your car upon getting your dream car? My younger brother Sledge What features do you like in a car? Speed, flexibility and stability are key whenever I think about cars. They make a difference between a normal and smooth ride. Driving in Nairobi can be a nightmare; how was your first experience? At first it was tricky navigating the traffic, but I have mastered that art. I think Nairobi drivers can be difficult at times, but you get to tolerate them. If you could be a traffic cop for a day, who would you deal with first? Overlappers! They get under my skin and I’m sure other motorists get frustrated as well. Most first time drivers make rush decisions on the choice of cars and panic when they hit the road; one word for them? I would advise them to keep calm, and wait for their opportune driving moment rather than compete to get the latest cars. Sometimes we rush into things only to realise that patience would have done it. Is it so much pressure for celebrities to get new cars? Yes! You see once people start recognising you, they will say hi to you everywhere. That’s why most celebrities quit using public transport. Secondly, a celebrity wants to enjoy their status, so they will use taxis. However, taxis can be expensive and eventually, they opt to get their own cars. K e m r a /JAN- MAR 2016 15. FUN FACT The DB10 from James Bond movie “Spectre” was never put into production and only a total of 10 were built. This DB10 however, was one of two that the crew kept back as show cars for display. Featuring a 6-speed manual transmission and a 4.7-liter V8 engine, it is expected to fetch somewhere between $1.4 to $2.1 million dollars (1 to 1.5 million British Pounds). MINEKA AUTOWORKS Have you ever been stopped by traffic police? Yes! This is Kenya. I’m sure most drivers have been stopped more than once on the road. Are you ever scared of the police whenever you are driving? Not exactly scared, but I don’t like the kind of inconvenience they bring to motorists. Have you ever had to bribe a policeman? Not directly. But most time they will stop me and once they identify me, the conversation changes and they will ask me to sing for them. Sometimes, they ask for souvenirs like my Music CDs. I have given out so many already but it also shows that they love my music. MOMBASA 1.MECHANICAL REPAIRS 2. AUTO ELECTRICAL WORKS 3. PANEL BEATING 4. SPRAY PAINTING 5. ACCIDENT REPAIRERS 6. MINOR &MAJOR SERVICE 7. VEHICLE BRANDING Accident Repair, Motor Vehicle Repair, Consulting Services. Engine Service for the all vehicle models Panel beating for Body Repair Spray paint in a oven baked booth Buffing services Free diagnostic check if you come with this magazine Member of MOMBASA,0721539682/072282607 K emr a /JAN-MAR 20 1 6 NEW WE OFFER Along Lumumba rd,next to ocean engineering P.O.BOX 84894-80100 16. THAT BRING BACK E L I N G CAR FE Contact us: 0722 522 970 0721 946 994 0722 399 938 Email: [email protected] P.O Box 50964 - 0200 Location: Industrial Area, Shimo la Tewa Rd. VAS AUTO CENTRE LIMITED Automobile Engineers & Accident Repairs Specialists VAS PREMISES AT LIKONI RD OPPOSITE BAT Chassis Jigging And Alignment Five Black hawk Korek 4000 jigs are fully operational. These equipments are technologically advanced in the sense that by using special computers.. VEHICLE BRANDING COMPUTERISED WHEEL BALANCING Chassis Jigging And Alignment Inside our busy workshop floor The workshop is divided into sections namely:- ⇒ The booking area ⇒ The washing bay ⇒ The parking area (to await repair authority) ⇒ The stripping area, ⇒ The jigging area ⇒ The panel beating area ⇒ The spray painting preparation area ⇒ The spraying booth ⇒ The buffing and polishing area ⇒ The fitting area and ⇒ The showroom (for the storage of the repaired as well as the new units). Our workshop area is large enough to accommodate at least 50 vehicles at a given time. In addition, we have a spacious store where all the parts, new equipment's, paints and consumables are stored. Spray Painting We have installed two of the latest Burnt Wood Spray Booths from the United Kingdom. The booths are fitted with baking facilities capable of drying vehicles within thirty minutes irrespective of the prevailing weather condition... CAR DIAGONISTIC SPRAY PAINTING SERVICES Panel Beating Our Services Accident Repairers VAS undertakes accident repairs ranging from the minor accidents to major accident repairs and are proud to be one of the most modern and professional motor accident repair workshop in the country... OUR STATE OF HEART WORK SHOP 1. MECHANICAL REPAIRERS 2. AUTO ELECTRICAL WORKS 3. PANEL BEATING 4. SPRAY PAINTING 5. ACCIDENTAL REPAIRES 6. BODY BUILDING 7. MINOR &MAJOR SERVICE 8. VEHICLE BRANDING Londiani Road, off Likoni Road, Tel:254-020- 553509,650283,650284 Industrial AreaMobile:0733328858 /0722636326 P.O. Box 78449-00507 Fax:254-020-531804/553509 Nairobi, Kenya Email: [email protected] Website:www.vasautocentre.co.ke We don’t just repair your car after a collision, we can look after your car throughout its life with you. As your vehicle is the second most expensive purchase you are likely to make, it makes... VAS AUTO CENTRE is a registered member of KEMRA Mechanical Repairers & Services We don’t just repair your car after a collision, we can look after your car throughout its life with you. As your vehicle is the second most expensive purchase you are likely to make, it makes..... VAS AUTO CENTRE has been categorized as a three spanners garage. KOMBANI AUTOWORKS KWALE BUSINESSREFLECTIONS TOYOTA DEALER STRATEGIZE AHEAD AND TAKE STOCK OF THE BUSINESS JOURNEY t OUR SERVICES 1.MECHANICAL REPAIRS 2. AUTO ELECTRICAL WORKS 3. PANEL BEATING 4. SPRAY PAINTING 5. ACCIDENT REPAIRERS 6. BODY BUILDING 7. MINOR &MAJOR SERVICE 8. VEHICLE BRANDING Located at kombani along Mombasa-ukunda highway. P.O.Box 1844-80400 ukunda Email:[email protected] /Tel:0722684524 W e recently held our AGM and I was lucky to have either been consulted or talked to by many of the participants. Judging from the depths of the discussion there was a lot of knowledge to mine and intelligence to gather useful for research, dissemination or generally worth sharing. One successful member in the auto industry did mention to me that his biggest challenge in business today is succession. He is worried about who in his family can lead the business to the future or even the next level. I had other interesting discourse with a number of entrepreneurs in the auto industry in course of the evening. They had interesting stories to tell relating to their business, their journey, the ups and downs and their hopes for the future. They had a gold field of knowledge to mine and I did as much as I could amidst the many chores I had to attend to during the occasion. I had a one on one with a seasoned businessman whose family has run a successful family business in auto repair and sales for several decades. He mentioned to me that he has a serious challenge. The challenge is transitioning the business to the next generation. He did mention that getting the next team of hands from the family 20. K emr a /JAN-MAR 20 1 6 is a challenge. I asked “you don’t have competent managers and staff to carry on with the business within a modernized structure where family members play a crucial role in the board?’’ He admitted that the employees rely so much on him in almost everything.This is notwithstanding that they also do a good job for him. However, most of the critical decisions but even some simpler ones they rely on him. He said he found this a challenge. Though we agreed to touch base later, it re-affirmed one or two things. Succession planning in business is critical. What is Succession planning? According to the free online Encyclopedia Wikipedia, Succession planning is a process for identifying and developing internal people with the potential to fill key business leadership positions in the company. Succession planning increases the availability of experienced and capable employees that are prepared to assume these roles as they become available. In today’s world it is tempting fate to let business or any organization run without a lot of forecasted future. This then means that building capacities for now and future is important. Ofcourse no capacity building in an organization can be complete without the human aspect being looked into. Human is at the apex of any strategic decisions in an organization. Without them all else comes to naught. Not surprising then, that this otherwise successful businessman was worried that he has done everything else right but worried that the business model he is carrying is not sustainable. Surprisingly even while involving family members seem to work for some businesses when it comes to transitioning across generations, it’s not a fire proof solution. There are many businesses that have become stuck or failed to match the innovativeness of new comers despite having a solid history of success across generations. Many stick to the old tested way of doing things and the inbreeding of management seems a problem in getting into new frontiers. Some however have managed. There are some very big companies in Kenya that have grown through family generations. However, there are many more that have sprout in Kenya and globally and grown successfully by people coming up with new or innovative ideas. This happens to people who had no prior solid family business of any kind. Some companies have grown big through significant application of new ways of doing business that have included sale of shares and some even floating in the stock markets. Incidentally most big businesses that trade across the world started small and many of them as family businesses or by partners before spreading out to other shareholders. It pays to tap into the right diverse talent. P.N .KABARA AUTO GARAGE Along kianda road NYERI ‘Beyond the standard’‘ Our services Accident repairs Spray painting Major &minor car services Towing services In a nutshell for business to thrive for many years and grow for a long time, proper succession planning more so for key positions is vital. At the same time the world is awash with talent and those that have spread out deftly have grown to be mega empires that run all over the world today. The future has unlimited opportunity but to tap that requires working high on Intellect. The Writer is KEMRA CEO Car branding Contact us through: P.o.box 3155 nyeri,phone +254720715197/0729157154 ,Email:[email protected] Battle of the INSPIRATION Moving from wishful thinking into action big & bulky beasts Dare make a move towards your goals in 2016 By Stephen Gaiti ‘’ ….but i chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit-fruit that will lastand so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you’’ John 15:16 M any are the Goal Setters but few are the Goal Getters. You must come out of the multitude of goal setters and graduate to the slim number of goal getters. Breaking from the multitude: Nigerian writer Chinua Achebe in his book titled ‘’Things Fall Apart” brings out a strong character called Okonkwo who wants to bring change into the community. Okonkwo was determined to reduce the White man’s onslaught on Ibo’s cultural values through brutal force, something that the rest of the community was against. So when Okonkwo beheads a white colonial governor with a machete in a village baraza, he is surprised that the people are not impressed by his actions. Instead the people turned tumultuous and scandalous. Okonkwo, disappointed, wiped the blood on his machete on sand and went on to hang himself. Nevertheless, Okonkwo’s action, unpopular as it was, sent a very strong statement to the Queen in England who ordered colonial DC’s in Africa to henceforth respect African traditional values. Like in a marathon race, we start off every year as a multitude but as the year progresses; you start seeing determined guys advancing towards the finish line while others either remain stranded at the starting line and still others fall by the wayside thereby missing their goals. You must be determined to go and conquer regardless of the limitations. The Quran admonishes Muslims to strive and attain their goals bearing in mind that Allah is the chief planner. ’’Although they plan, Allah also plans. And Allah is the best of planners’’ (Quran Surah al-Anfal, v30) Cast out, rejected and condemned to death, the four lepers in the bible made a resolute decision regardless of their pathetic situation. They had three options; to GO BACK to the city where they had been cast out, TO STAY WHERE THEY WERE or TO MOVE AHEAD .They consulted and agreed to MOVE AHEAD even if death stared at them. And when they started moving with their feeble feet, God amplified their faint footsteps, sounded like a mighty army advancing and the enemies fled leaving behind food, gold and silver. The lepers ate to their fill and fed the starving nation. A mega business idea doesn’t have to start with millions of shillings; thousands of shillings can lay the foundation. ‘’Now there were four men with leprosy at the entrance of the city gate. They said to each other, why stay here until we die? ….So let’s go…if they kill us we die….’’ 2 Kings 7:3-4 Life is full of decisions. Some decisions, whether good or bad are permanent, we got to live with them. In the year 2016, you have to make a choice; You either GO BACK to your former situation i.e. deteriorate, STAY WHERE YOU ARE i.e. remain stagnant or MOVE AHEAD (advance) May God amplify your steps as you advance to your goals in 2016. Some decisions you make may be risky and daring but remember we don’t learn any lessons from cowards. In the community where you live, you are either an Example to people or a Warning. The writer is the Marketing Manager, Kenya Motor Repairers Association (KEMRA) [email protected]/ [email protected] 22. K emr a /JAN-MAR 20 1 6 CARREVIEW Judging from its size and sheer bulk, you’d guess the new X5 is a big, thirsty machine designed for family space rather than sportiness, but car enthusiasts know otherwise. This is as much a performance car as any other BMW L onger than the model it replaces, BMW have finely tuned the X5 rather than redesigned it. Restyled headlamps now slide the whole way across the front and the chrome-slated kidney grille has been adjusted in keeping with the rest of the family. Overall, though, it’s not as well-proportioned as before and the effect is quite drab. The macho bulging wheel arches and wide tyres that gave the previous model an almost menacing presence have given way to a more estate car-like stance, a look designed to appeal to American and Chinese buyers, the two biggest markets for the new model. What the X5 lacks on the outside it makes up for on the inside – sit behind the wheel and the dashboard is beautifully uncluttered with a variety of materials and textures that exude quality. From the black gloss and white leather to the ambient lighting our M50d test car is pure luxury. Room is good front and back and even middle-seat passengers won’t feel like they have drawn the short straw. The 40:20:40 split in the middle row is new and allows for much greater flexibility than before. With the seats upright there is 650 litres of luggage space. While this is not class-leading, it is 30 litres more than the current X5 offers, but Land Rover’s Range Rover Sport offers 784 litres. There is also an optional third row of seats making it a seven-seater. In contrast, the new Range Rover Sport is strikingly different from the model it replaces. With styling details borrowed from the Evoque and full-size Range Rover, the chiselled exterior gives it a hot hatch-like stance while the aluminium body shell means its 420kg lighter than before. The inner beauty of the Range Rover Sport nearly eclipses its stunning exterior. The seating position is lower than the model it replaces but every bit as commanding. For the first time there is also an option of two extra seats in the back. Overall, it makes passengers feel a little more special inside than when in the X5. Armed with a stunning 510bhp 5.0 litre V8, the Range Rover Sport shoots from standstill to 100kmh in just over five seconds. There are three other engines in the range; two three-litre V6 diesels (TD and SD) and a 340hp, three-litre V6 petrol. A hybrid will join the range next year. The X5 range starts with a 215bhp BMW X5 sDrive25d, powered by a four-cylinder diesel, there is also a four-wheel-drive option of the same. Those looking for more power should opt for the 254bhp 3.0-litre six-cylinder xDrive30d. BMW also offers a 5.0 litre petrol, the xDrive50i, that bolts from standstill to 100 kmh in five seconds. The on-road manners of the X5 are subtly different from the Range Rover Sport. It feels more like a performance model and almost defies gravity with no body-roll in the corners. On the downside the steering fails to impress. K e m r a /JAN- MAR 2016 23. DIVASLANE CARReview Press the start button on the Range Rover Sport and the exhaust delivers a deep and resonant note that pairs beautifully with the car’s excellent acceleration and overall performance. Beautifully controlled on bends, the suspension is transformed and is both forgiving and stiff in equal measure. On the road, the Sport feels nothing like its predecessor and while it is still a huge vehicle and tips the scales at about two tonnes, it is light and agile. Off road, the Range Rover Sport is mind bogglingly good and is unmatched by any of the German competition. At the launch, the X5 reassured through a wet and slippy forest and over small hill dunes but while it was all accomplished with ease , we were left unconvinced that a road car wouldn’t have achieved the same. But it is on road which is the true battle ground and despite the very similar weight of both vehicles, the X5 feels the lighter and is the most agile of the two. The BMW X5 may be huge but it’s deceptively frugal. On a mix of urban and motorway it will return 42.2mpg. The Sport, with a 3.0 litre turbo-diesel, returns 37.7mpg. The BMW X5 is available in a variety of trim levels, the basic being the €67,380 SE model. Three packages can be added to SE version to add a variety of interior and exterior trim finishes. BMW also provides an M Sport package. Our range-topping test car, the M50d, costs €109,630. Prices for the Range Rover Sport are still unconfirmed due to supply restrictions, but we expect the starting price to be in excess of €80,000. It is available in four trims: S, SE, HSE and Autobiog- raphy. the BMW X5. But if I was opting for a remote For so long, Land Rover played catch-up to BMW’s rural idyll, the muscular Range Rover Sport is performance machine and just as it was about to engineered to take on the most gruelling off-road pull up alongside its German competitor, BMW travel you can imagine. changed the rules. Recognising that it is on-road The Range Rover Sport is the Swiss army knife of CHILD CAR SAFETY handling and good looks that woos buyers, this cars, but in reality most of us will never appreciate We all love our little people, and with love come responsibility and care. is the most road-focused X5 that BMW have its endless mud-plugging abilities. The X5, on Child car safety begins with carefully choosing, properly fitting and always using the right child car restraint or booster seat for your produced. the other hand, has everything you will need – it child's age and weight. So if you were buying a premium SUV, which is slightly bigger, faster and more efficient than buying the right car seat would you choose? If elegance is defined by speed, before and, crucially, it does it all for less. For a new baby, you will need an infant carrier (or combination seat) which should be suitable for your car. power and space then the answer is probably Courtesy of Sunday Independent important car seat advice for parents Newborns need rearward facing car seats from their very first journey home. Rearward facing car seats offer the best protection for young babies who have very little control over their heads and necks. Baby should be positioned rearward facing for as long as possible. Car seats are tested by the weight they can carry, not the age of a child. Child car safety comes first fitting your baby's car seat W e all love our little people, and with love come responsibility and care. Child car safety begins with carefully choosing, properly fitting and always using the right child car restraint or booster seat for your child’s age and weight. Make sure the harness around your baby or child is firm but not restrictive. The seat belt should be as tight as possible (seatbelt goes onto the car seat), to minimize forward or sideways movement of the seat. The seat belt buckle should be straight when locked and should never rest on the child's car seat frame as it may snap open. types of car seats and suitable weight of child Weight Group Approx. age. Car seat type Birth – 13kgs (29lbs) 0+ Birth – 12 – 15 months infant Birth– 18kgs (40lbs) 0+ and 1 Birth – 4yrs 9 – 18kgs (20– 40lbs) 1 9months – 4yrs 9 – 36kgs (20– 79lbs) 1-2-3 9months – 11yrs 15– 36kgs (33-79lbs) 2-3 4 – 11yrs 15–36kgs (33-79lbs) 2-3 4 - 11yrs combination Forward facing High back booster with harness High back booster without harness Booster seat -rearward facing -use rearward facing from birth9kg/20lbs -forward-facing adjustable -forward-facing use with integral harness from 9-15kg (20-33lbs) -secured with an adult seat belt only -forwardfacing secured by an adult seat belt buying the right car seat For a new baby, you will need an infant carrier (or combination seat) which should be suitable for your car. Newborns need rearward facing car seats from their very first journey home. Rearward facing car seats offer the best protection for young babies who have very little control over their heads and necks. Baby should be positioned rearward facing for as long as possible. Car seats are tested by the weight they can carry, not the age of a child. fitting your baby’s car seat 24. K emr a /JAN-MAR 20 1 6 -lightweight and portable -with carry handle -use forward facing from 9-18kg/2040lbs -recline positions -seat has integral harness Courtesy of Mothercare UK -secured with an adult seat belt Make sure the harness around your baby or child is firm but not restrictive. The seat belt should be as tight as possible (seatbelt goes onto the car seat), to minimize forward or sideways -use with vehicle belt from 15- 36kg (33-79 lbs) -integrated harness -a useful back- up option e.g. grandparent s' car or for unexpected situations movement of the seat. The seat belt buckle should be straight when locked and should never rest on the child’s car seat frame as it may snap open. WARNING: Female DRIVER AHEAD D By Ms THING riving while female in Nairobi is a trip. If there was a way to hide my gender for purposes of being behind the wheel, I would go for it. For a good number of male drivers – heck, possibly for all of them – the fact of being a woman is all the proof they need that you are not road worthy. It doesn’t matter how expensive your car is. You could be driving an Escalade for all the difference it would make. Any brownie points you might have earned for handling a top-of-the-range automobile are instantly erased when the Toyota behind you realises that you are female. And as soon as he does, all highway good graces fly straight out the window. It will become his short-term mission to outsmart you with his superior driving skills. God forbid if you are driving a Vitz (a red or blue is even worse) or one of those mini-Mazda contraptions. That is just a blanket invitation to be manhandled and bundled into the tightest possible corner, so that the river of vehicular testosterone can flow unencumbered by that irritant called estrogen. Driving in Nairobi is like trolling on social media. Whether their windows are tinted or not, drivers, feel anonymous and thus, suitably emboldened to behave badly. From switching lanes without indicating, to hooting at red lights (apparently there is hurry in Africa), obstructing traffic to drop people off and chatting up random females through lowered windows, there are few limits to the kind of madness that can be found on the road. But there is one thing that Nairobi drivers do that takes the gold in the grand prix of on-road acrobatics. Overlapping! If I was God for a day, every last overlapper would be on the fast track straight to hell, with their offending vehicles in tow. Nothing is more annoying than an overlapper getting to the end of the service lane, garden path or whatever, and then making an aggressive attempt to force himself back into line without so much as an, “Excuse me, I know I’m an idiot, but please have mercy on me”. Overlappers always have an exaggerated sense of bravado, and a heightened sense of their own driving ability, especially when they are male and you, a woman, are civilized. They bully you with the threat that if you deny them entry, they will drive right into the side of your car, the assumption being that they would rather cause an accident than let you stay ahead. If that fails, they will try to make eye contact because everyone knows that once you make eye contact with a driver who wants to cut into your lane, you have to let them through. So, ladies, rule number one; do not make eye contact. As soon as I hit the road, I put my brick face on. It’s hard out there for a chick, I’m sayin’! You are judged on the basis of your sex alone, and if you’re not quick on your wheels, the danger of a fender bender is real. K e m r a /JAN- MAR 2016 25. ROADSAFETY SHEDRIVER Did you know that police need a search warrant to enter your car? Being stopped by a traffic cop is a motorist’s worst nightmare. There’s always fear of being caught on the wrong foot, no pun intended. These ten traffic rules will come to the rescue of any motorist should they be stopped for a traffic offence or for a routine or random police check. 1 2 3 . It is illegal to talk on the phone while driving so don’t do it. . The fine for talking on your phone while driving is up to the discretion of the Magistrate and can range from Sh400 to Sh5,000. . If you have been pulled over for any traffic offense, you can call this phone number 020 8562263 or 020 8563515/6 to speak to a Commandant of Traffic who will answer any traffic-offense question you might have. We called and got the information for the previous bullet. 4 5 . If you are being harassed by the police, you can call the Diplomatic Police: 020 521446 or 0735 356506. . If you get pulled over by the police, you have your rights: If You Are Stopped For A Minor Traffic Offence in Kenya, Please Follow These Simple Rules: Please find below an official statement of the Ministry of Justice, Law and Order Reform Programme (GJLOS) concerning your rights and obligations towards traffic police in case of minor traffic offences. I recommend you to make a print out and place it in your private vehicle in case of need. 6 7 8 . Demand that the officer identify him/herself through an appointment certificate OR through the name and number normally pinned on their uniform. Equally always identify yourself by a driver’s license or ID document. . Please do not allow police officers to get into your car when you have been stopped for a minor traffic offence. Your car is private property and technically the police require a search warrant to enter your car, but we are normally polite and allow them to look inside. . If you are being charged with a minor traffic offence, the paper work can normally be done on the spot – it’s called a “bail bond” or “police bail”. You make a cash payment and get an official receipt (which is also a notice to appear in court on a future date). If it cannot be issued on the spot, insist that you follow a police car to the nearest police station and then ensure that the bail bond is issued at the police station. Please also note that all minor traffic offences in Kenya are indeed eligible for “bail bond” or “police bail” - there is absolutely no justification for you to be locked up at a police station for minor traffic offences. But this is a threat normally used to scare people. 9 10 . Never allow a police officer to take the keys of your car from the ignition – this is illegal. . Be polite and non-confrontational at all times. Source: Kenya Traffic Offences Guide 26. K emr a /JAN-MAR 20 1 6 Just call me Warush on the other hand was initially unhappy about it, but of late, he has warmed up,” says Warush. Since she started riding, Warush has no regrets whatsoever since the bike has changed her life. “I’m a member of super Hero biker’s Club where I get to interact with the other members,” she says. They are about 80 lovers of the bike at the club with over 10 being ladies. At the club, we attend weddings, engage in corporate affairs and it’s just amazing to do what we are passionate about,” she says. “I also get to mentor new riders and the experience is helpful. Has she been involved in bike accidents? “Yes,” Warush says, “I have fallen off my bike a number of times, but only escaped with minor injuries.” Bike accidents, she says are caused by arrogance of drivers who adamantly refuse to use the walk sides. “Be cautious of your surrounding and always be on the lookout.” The only thing new female bikers can do is to enjoy and have fun on their bikes. T raffic snarl-ups in Nairobi are bad. Motorists living around Mombasa Road, Langata, Jogoo Road and Thika Road spend hours on end to get to their workplaces every morning. And when ‘jam’ gets nasty, motorists literally spend the night in their vehicle seats. But not all of them, some smart ones like one Nairobian lady have figured out how to maneuver the winding queues of vehicles that stretch from Uhuru Highway all the way to Utawala. Eunice Karanja or Warush as she is popularly known, was just a driver, a no nonsense female driver who after successfully completing her driving school, took on the wheels of Eldoret Express for three years. She then moved to City Hoppa and later joined Standard Group as a driver. Having interacted with traffic jam in the city for all those years, she decided to try something else. A good friend taught Warush a few basics of riding a motorbike and off she went. Sooner or later, her first ever motorbike, an Apache was at her doorstep. “My motive was to beat traffic, it was too much,” Warush said adding that, “After a while I graduated into a bigger and more powerful bike, a Hero Karizma.” Since then, ‘jam’ became a thing of the past. Long distance driving is not something Warush considers a challenge; she has done EldoretNairobi in 62-seater bus several trips a week for three years. The male-dominated industry didn’t come with few challenges. But the shapely and beautiful 28. K emr a /JAN-MAR 20 1 6 AUTOSPIN GARAGE NYERI A sign of quality EXPERTS IN: OUR BEST SERVICES 1.MECHANICAL REPAIRS 2. AUTO ELECTRICAL WORKS 3. PANEL BEATING 4. SPRAY PAINTING 5. ACCIDENT REPAIRERS 6. MINOR &MAJOR SERVICE Warush says, “I turned a blind eye and ear and survived; plus my no-nonsense attitude always saves the day.” At her current workplace where she distributed newspapers to various regions in the country, there’s no special treatment she gets. “Work is work, in fact, it’s only recently that I was relocated to Nairobi City,” Warush says. On the bike, the farthest she has gone is Kapsabet. “The only challenge here is fatigue,” she says adding that, “the trick is to make frequent stop overs to freshen up,” says the mother of two, a boy aged 10 and two-year-old girl. Her children she says are crazy about the bike. “They love it. They are crazy about it. My husband 7. VEHICLE BRANDING AUTHORISED TATA DEALER WE ARE LOCATED AT: Along Waiyaki Way Opposite All Africa Conference of Churches,Westlands Next to New Safaricom Headquarters CONTACT US: P.O.BOX 14939-00800,NairobiKenya Tel:020-2017754,Fax:4440277 Email:[email protected] Situated at king’ong’o along Nyeri-Nanyuki,RD Tel:0722794684,0721794148 Website:www.dekelvinsgarage.com Panel Beating Mechanical Engineering Computerized Paint Mixers Seat Cushioning Car Alarms etc. 2016 KEMRA MEMBERS 2016 KEMRA MEMBERS MEMBER ADDRESS PHONE ADDITIONAL CONTACT Foton East Africa Ltd. Along Mombasa Road, at the junction with Shimo la Tewa Road, before NCW&SC officesNairobi 0722748843 0722748843 ,0703333133 Four Runners Auto Tech Ltd. Along Hola Road, off Baricho Road, next to CMC bodyshop, Industrial Area -Nairobi 0722703584 020-555611, 0722703584 Absolute Motor Services Ltd Industrial Area, Shimo la Tewa Rd. Nairobi 0722522970 Access Panel Craft Crescent road,Nairobi 0722328603, 0720972563 Ace Auto Centre Ltd. Along Giligil Road, off Enterprise Road, Industrial Area - Nairobi 0722529178 020-2491820, 020-2491825, 0718391540, 0786622509 Golden Auto Centre Ltd. Along Road ‘A’, off Enterprise Road, Industrial Area - Nairobi 0722752065 020-2001221, 0722770682, 0722752065 All Auto Services Ltd. Factory St, Nairobi, Kenya 0720819356 0720634448, 0720819356 Haji Motors Ltd. 020-3535552 /3 Kiambu, Kiambu Rd. 0716-052000 0721-849457 Off Mombasa Road, Behind Vision Plaza, inside Hyundai Complex Go- downs - Nairobi 0722519008 Alpha Automobile ltd A-One Auto Services Ltd Opp Nakumatt Highridge, 3rd Parklands Ave Nairobi 0722521446 0722790500 Hanspol Auto clinic Industrial area,Nanyuki rd Nairobi 0725-623363 HI Techz Investments Voi town,Nairobi-Mombasa Rd. 0722-267501 Apex Motor Mart Ltd. Off Outer Ring Road, after Doonholm roundabout, nextto E.A. Hydraulics - Nairobi 0722817799 020-2016878, 0722817799 Homeboys Auto Garage Voi town,Nairobi-Mombasa Rd. 0721-616565 Auto Extreme Kisumu 0721-888878 Huade Motors Kenya Ltd. Along road opposite Isiolo Road, off Enterprise Road -Nairobi 0712504013 0713451844, 0712504013, 0718770375 Auto Village Opposite Uhuru Gardens, Langata Rd, Nairobi, 0722525238 Jaffery Motors 041-2226604, 041-2224365 Along Rangwe Close, Off Lunga lunga Road, Industrial Area - Nairobi 0722207085 Mombasa,Nkurumah Rd. Fort Jesus ,behind bank of India. 0722367441 Autofine Ltd. Jamii Auto Care Ltd. 020-2158334 Vision plaza,mombasa rd,Nairobi 0719-330202 Along Ngong’ Road, Opposite Nairobi Baptist Church - Nairobi 0722582296, 0721517212 AutoMan T/A Smarton Equipment Ltd JB Motors Industrial Area, Enterprises Rd, Factory Street. 0722959588 Automotive Solutions (Nairobi) Ltd. Road A, Off Enterprise Road Industrial Area.Nairobi 0721709133, 0722308460 020-3563205, 0731899057, 0722203858, 0735401752 Jeet Motors Kericho Town 0722-284910 Autoskill limited Autoskill Ltd Bldg, Solai Rd.Nairobi 0722-328666 0733-826555 Jogi Motors Malindi, Kilifi-Malindi Rd. 0721-855412 Autospin Garage Nyeri Nyeri, Along Nyeri-Nanyuki Rd, King’ong’o 0722794684 061-2032927 Joginders Auto Service Ltd. 0722510675 Autozone Mombasa Garage Mombasa ,Next to Darajani Hotel,Buxton 0722-710765 0721-634777 Along Butere Road, Off Dar-Es- Salaam Road,Industrial Area - Nairobi 020-555122, 0734838022, 020-6531349, 0729570268 Axel Engineering & Manufacturing Ltd. Along South Airport Road, At the TNT junction, opposite Samax Plaza Nairobi 0722-206262 020-2526362 /3 Kenya Bus Service Management Ltd. Riruta Depot, off Gitanga Road - Nairobi. 0724715828, 0733 741042, 0727999343 020-2019685, 0727999286 Kineticar Auto Garage Ltd Off Eastern By pass Ruiru,Nairobi 0722814051 0722481455 B.K Motors Meru Meru, KPCU Rd next to fire station. 0722 175258 0722 175258 Kithan Autocare 0718-755100 Bagda's Auto Spares Limited Nairobi, BASL Hse.Kumasi Rd. off Kirinyaga Rd. 0739-527956/0722527956/0774-162414 2122987/2122988/2122980 Along commercial street off Bunyala Rd next To Robbs magic kombani auto works limited Kwale,Mombasa-Ukunda Rd 0722-684524 Bavaria Garage Mombasa , Mtwapa along Mombasa-Malindi Rd. 0729-921365 0729-921365 Kylin Motors Ltd Kisumu,Makasembo Street. 0722-743297 Carmate Auto Workshop Ltd. Along Muindi Mbingu Street, near Thika High School - Thika 0724418779, 0771586550 0724418779, 0771586550 Liya Motors Engineering Contractors Mombasa,Changamwe. 0722-0450651 Central Famers Garage Kitale Town ,near CMC 0721-318603 0721-593333 Logistech Ltd. Off Mombasa Road, Near Standard Group Ltd. Nairobi 0722410828 Complete Auto Centre Ltd. Along KPA Road, off Mombasa Road, inside Godown next to Inland Container Depot -Nairobi 0720771572 0721363751 Lunka Autoserve Ltd Behind Vision plaza ,Mombasa rd Nairobi 0722759766 0718567734 Concorde Motors Ltd. At Hurlingham, behind Shell Petrol Station and opposite DOD - Nairobi 0720977112 020-2720091 /79 /43 /46 M/S Safari Motors Service Kericho Kericho Town 0712-336841 0712-336841 Markmann & Company Ltd Enterprise Road Kayaba Lane Behind Old Fire Station 0721374241 020-651432;020-3518438 Crown Paints (K) Ltd. Along Likoni Road, Industrial Area-Nairobi 0713600699/0700223506 020-651331 /2, 020-556019 Mercantile Enterprises T/A Oserian Motor Services Ltd. Donholm, off Outer Ring Road - Nairobi 0722293601 0722918028, 0722293601 Crystal Motors (K) Ltd. Along KPA Road, Off Mombasa Road, near Inland Container Depot - Nairobi 0722707124, 0733707124 0787468801, 0705854445, 0722707124, 0723914222 Midland Auto Care Ltd. Along Busia Road, off EnterpriseRoad, Industrial Area - Nairobi 0722311794 0722311794, 0722230624, 0721258771 DAC Motors Along Wajir Road, off Chogoria Road, Industrial Area - Nairo 0727709817 0720669731, 0722822063 Mineka Autoworks Ltd Mombasa,Next to King’orani Prison. 0721-539682 Modern Auto Maintenance 0722412533, 0738460123 Daivin Auto Ltd. At the junction Of Mogadishu Road and Lungalunga Road, Industrial Area -Nairobi 0722983411, 0703890640 020-2346664, 0739565769, 0703890640 Opposite Total Petrol Station, Mombasa Island, Lumumba Rd, Mombasa, Motor Care Ltd. Langata Rd, Nairobi City, 0722526160 020-2526126, 020-2023806 De-Kelvins Auto Service Centre Along Waiyaki Way, opposite All Africa Conference of Churches, Westlands - Nairobi 0722651618 020-2017754 Motor Lab Auto Centre Along Baba Dogo Road, Ruaraka- Nairobi 0701328989 020-2692020, 0701328989, 020-2426232 Destiny Motors Along Busia Road, off Enterprise Road, Industrial Area - Nairobi 0722520040 020-2639502 Motor Zone Auto Repair Shop Along Ngong’ Road, Opposite War Memorial Cemetry, Behind Kenol Petrol Station - Nairobi 0727029475 020-2648665, 0713056010, 0786624846 Dollar Auto tech Limited Langata road,near uchumi hyper 0724702320 Motorways (K) Ltd. Along Falcon Road, Off Enterprise Road - Nairobi 0722519944 020-2132358 /9, 0722275885, 0733237862 Along Bamburi Road, off Enterprise Road, Industrial Area- Nairobi 0722220620 Dreamcoat Automotive Refinishing Products Ltd. 020-535237, 020-650757 /8, 0735266492 Motorworld Fastfit Ltd. Jogoo Road, Opposite City Stadium .Nairobi 0722820112 Echo kenya limited Along kitui Rd off kampala Rd,Industrial road. Nairobi 0722-363216 020-6650059 020-2526126, 0733713670, 020-2023806, 0721713670 Mutindwa Toyota Meru, along Meru-Maua Rd. 0722-888840 0733-983555 Eureka technical services ltd Along Nanyuki Road, Off Lunga lunga Road, Industrial Area - Nairobi 0720-960752 020-4445155/70 Muwasa Motors Enterprises Kisii Town 0733965223 0726-669945 Fast Fit Auto Care Off shimo la Tewa Road Next to macs pharmaceuticals –industrial Area. 0724974995 Naivaboch auto.Electrical Hobra Rd industrial area Naivasha Town. 0721-212091/0728715205 0728-715205 New Embu Uhuru Garage Embu, off Nairobi-Embu Rd. 0724829133 +254-682231234 Forange Auto Allied Suppliers (K) Ltd. Along Nanyuki Road, Off Lunga lunga Road, Industrial Area - Nairobi 0722522392 P.N Kabara Auto Garage Nyeri Nyeri Town,Kianda Rd. 0720715197 30. K emr a /JAN-MAR 20 1 6 0722399938;0721946994 020-2344322 020-3597826, 020-3598473 0738-006007 /0522020605/2021144 057-2022280 020-3563127 K e m r a /JAN- MAR 2016 31. 2016 KEMRA MEMBERS PICTORIAL Palm Motors Ltd. Industrial Area, Off Enterprise Road, Dakar Rd, Nairobi 0722524511 Peter motor works Mombasa, King’orani. 0722-629387 Pistonheads East Africa Ltd Nyumba Moja Rd langata/Karen(Galleria) 0725518031/0710702555 Pony Motors Panel Beaters Ltd. N.C.P. Board Godowns No.2, Off Lunga Lunga Rd 0722529363 Quick Star Enterprises Ltd. CITY Cabanas,north airport road. 0700706641, 0722746616 Rallytec Auto Kisumu,Makasembo Street. 0722-745551 Rucini Auto Garage Thika, Munene Industries 0718-635561 Safe Zone Auto Care Ltd. Along Changamwe Road, off Enterprise Road, Industrial Area- Nairobi 0720329235 020-553679, 0721212170, 0735212100, 0720329235 Sagoo Automech Ltd Nakuru, near K.I.E offices 0722-800904 722800904 Sagoo Motor Service Ltd Kericho Town 0722-774255 0722774255 Save Time Oil Changers Ltd. Nairobi,Rongai 0703207105, 0728260298 Silver Rano Motors Ltd. Off Lusaka Road, next toTelcomsExchange - Nairobi 0722704222 020-555900, 0722704222, 0722356869 Sim Autocare Ltd. Off Melili Road, South B -Nairobi 0722607366 020-2147713, 0722607366, 020-559913, 0737227000 Simba Corporaton Ltd Mombasa Road, Nairobi 0722674589 020-2966000 Solex Motors Ltd. Along Addis Ababa Road, Industrial Area - Nairobi 0722518340, 0733518340 020-553286, 020-555695 South coast Auto works Kwale,Mombasa-Ukunda Rd 0722-307712 0729-569644 Spraymaster Ltd. Behind Vision plaza ,mombasa rd Nairobi 0722511689 0733636244, 0722511689 St. Austin's Service Station Ltd. Along Ngong’ Road, After junction to Jamhuri Show Ground - Nairobi 0722707262 020-8155139, 0726705517 Stantech Motors Ltd. Along Shimo la Tewa Road, Off Mombasa Road - Nairobi 0722410736 020-8070403 /4 /5, 0208045683 /4, 0722891659 Stephens Auto Engineering Works Ltd. Along Factory Road, opp. City Stadium - Nairobi 0722520075 0722520075 Suba Motors Ltd Nairobi, Utawala, along Eastern Bypass opp. AP Training school 0720-934446 Super Touch Auto Centre Ltd Along Addis Ababa Road, off -Enterprise Road, Industrial Area- Nairobi 0722759310 020-651645 /9, 0720895555, 0732895555 Tabby James and U Auto Limited Nairobi, Buruburu phase 1 Estate 0721-222585 0700-534823 Teryx Motor Services Ltd. Funzi Rd, Nairobi City, Kenya 0726395979, 0720700425 Thika Motor Dealers(K) Ltd Thika, along Thika-Mwingi Rd. 072172654 020-2321605 Top Job Motors Along Londiani Road, off Likoni Road, Industrial Area - Nairobi 0721377098 +254 20 350133 Top Quality Auto Ltd. Along Thika Road, next to Safari Park Hotel - Nairobi 0725852085 0725852085 Topworks Garage Services Mombasa,Kisimani, Mombasa-Kilifi Rd. 0722-673181 020-2103020, 0725852085 Toyotsu Auto Mart (K) Ltd. Toyotsu Building, Toyota Kenya Business Park, Popo Rd, Nairobi City 0723115734 TransAfrica Motors Limited Mombasa 0722-411114 020-6967000 Twiga Panel Beaters Ltd. Along Busia Road, off Enterprise Road, Industrial Area - Nairobi 0726572620 0722-411114 Unity Auto Garage (Nbi) Ltd. Along Kampala Road, off Enterprise Road, Industrial Area-Nairobi 0722511028 0726572620 Universal Auto Touch Ltd. Along Kikuyu-Dagoretti Road, next to Green Gardens Educational Centre - Kikuyu 0722376640, 0721390978 020-6531664, 0721206033, 0735210218, 0736100786, 0722925501 Vas Auto Centre Ltd. Along Londiani Road, off Likoni Road, Industrial Area - Nairobi Walker Automec Garage Meru Town KPCU Rd.Next to fire station West Fit Motors Along Kikuyu Road, next to Dagoretti Shell Petrol Station -Kiambu Zhong Shun Motors Ltd. Along Nanyuki Road, off Lunga lunga Road, opp. Kenya Shell Depot, Industrial Area -Nairobi 020-552368, 020-552369, 0703138880, 0722/0731524511 0722529363, 020-351483 SPRAY PAINTING training at VAS auto ,kemra had organized a training of spray painters AKI safety awards KEMRA CHAIRMAN presenting awards to various groups at an Association of Kenya Insurers event Members at Koroga Event in Mombasa 0733-732543 0722629782 KEMRA secretariat during an event in carnivore organised by CHEKI.CO.KE 0722376640, 0721390978 ‘Our mission is to work as a team to deliver quality service for you 'United we stand divided we fall' SPECIALISTS SUBARU SPECIALISTS Mechanical Repairs, 020-650283 /4, 0722518816, 0722636326, 0733328858 Panel Beating, 0722236728 0733-222590 Spray Painting, 0731813317, 0713891476 0722236728 0713891476, 0735212100 We are located along the Embakasi bypass opposite the AP Training School; Genuine Parts Car Importers Engine Diagnosis 32. K emr a /JAN-MAR 20 1 6 K e m r a /JAN- MAR 2016 CONTACT US :P.O Box 9109 00300 NAIROBI KENYA Tel: 0720934446 Wireless: 020 3588290 [email protected] 33. MYSTORY Post Election Violence reduced me to ashes S amuel M. Wambugu was born in 1965, in Molo, Nakuru County. It was in Kisumu town where his eventful career began. His elder brother J.G Mworia had already settled there working with Kenya Breweries Limited. He assisted Samuel get casual jobs at the Breweries depot in Kisumu. Samuel, however, would repair peoples’ vehicles in the evening at the estates. He finally quit and openeed his workshop in Kisumu, Makasembo Street. That wasin 1995. The workshop was the biggest in Kisumu and had 10 workers and 10 casuals. The facility sat on a 2.5 acres of land. He was in the panel of many insurance firms. His facility was insured but political riots were not insurable by then. He had a wide range of clientile. But December 2007 was his turning point.He had settled in Kisumu with his family at Mamboleo estate where he owned a one storey three-bed roomed house. His children schooled at Arya Primary School. He was a registered voter in Kisumu East Constituency. Samuel says on December 26, 2007, there was political tension but he had not anticipated much trouble. However, the murder of Embakasi MP elect Mugabe Were in Nairobi and that of Ainamoi MP in Eldoret was the beginning of a full scale violence. There was wide spread demonstrations, looting and destruction of property by angry youths. Several facilities were razed down in Kisumu’s CBD. Samuel’s garage, the owner being from the “wrong community” was targeted for destruction. His garage was looted and destroyed. The customers’ vehicles which were parked in the yard were vandalized and cut into scrap. He serviced KPLC vehicles and as the company went for their lorry to save it from destruction; they also managed to rescue one of his cars. It was a double tragedy for Samuel. His rural home in Molo was also razed down and could not take his family there. Tension was high and fortunately, for Samuel, he knew a bit of local dialect language, having lived in Kisumu for many years. He 34. K emr a /JAN-MAR 20 1 6 drove himself without police escort, carrying his family in a four seater vehicle. Youths looking for rival party supporters would occasioally stop him but he would trick them by speaking in local dialect and giving them cash handouts. He intended to go to his brother’s home in Thika through Narok but this proved impossible as Kericho area was a hotspot of political rivalry. He opted to travel to Kisii via Sondu as this area was relatively peaceful. He finally arrived at Keroka police station where they were admitted as Internally Displaced Person (IDP‟s) Life as an IDP was torturous, boring, stressful, uncertain and generally demeaning.A man who once comfortably fed his family was now a beggar. The days and nights were long, but he stayed together with his family at the police station for a month. He eventually started to venture out and look for casual jobs like selling second hand clothes. Samuel is grateful to the Britam insurance company. When he claimed for compensation, they informed him that political riots were uninsurable then but all the same gave him a gratuity of Sh 400,000. He used this money to set up Muwasa garage within the Kisii CBD. His former customers brought their vehicles all the way from Kisumu to him for repair. Soon, other former clients like KPLC, POSTA, Kenya seeds, county government and other parastatals came on board placing his garage on the recovery path. He is gradually coming up though not so easily. Many people were and still are inspired by Samuel‟s story. It is a story of sheer resilience and a metallic will to remain afloat against all odds. Samuel believes in offering quality work to his customers, a benchmark that has sustained him all through. Majority of his customers come from Kisumu. Most of his tools were vandalized. Samuel would like to network with other garage own-ers in a view to restore and modernize his garage as most of his equipments were destroyed in the skirmishes. Samuel Muwasa, Chairman Muwasa Garage, Kisii -As narrated to Stephen Gaiti, Marketing Manager KEMRA. [email protected] or [email protected] About Kemra KEMRA is an association of garage owners in Kenya. We support and advocate for conducive & favorable business atmosphere for our members. MISSION Protecting and promoting members’ business interests through advocacy and instilling professionalism in the motor repair industry. KEMRA’S aims & objectives WHO CAN BE A MEMBER? Any registered business whose primary activity is auto repairing or provides goods and services to the industry and meets KEMRA stipulated standards. 1. To forward our KEMRA certified garages to insurance panels for selection for business engagement. 2. To advocate for discounted prices in spare parts for our members with the manufacturers and suppliers through our website. 3. To offer training through KEMRA organized workshops and seminars for garage staff e.g in panel beatings, spray works, auto electrical etc. 4. To offer a forum for garage members to engage other stakeholders on matters affecting our business e.g. Insurance companies, NTSA, KEBS, AKI, & IRA. 5. To liase with NTSA and lobby for our certified garages to be selected as fitting centers for speed limiters. VISION To be an institution of excellence in the motor repair industry. THE KEMRA SECRETARIAT Mr. Harrison Ikunda, Ceo, Kemra Mr. Stephen M. Gaiti, Marketing Manager, Kemra Mr. Solomon Musyoka, Communications Officer, Kemra Mrs. Lilian Murithi, Administration & Accounting Officer. For Enquiries On Membership And Registration, Kindly Contact Our Marketing Manager Mr. Stephen Gaiti On +254 0708854071/0792426898. Email [email protected] Contacts Phones: +25472247112, +254721440989 +254722378760, +254717738641 Email: [email protected] Facebook:kenya motor repairers Association Twitter:@_kemra, www.kemra.co.ke K e m r a /JAN- MAR 2016 35. 36. K emr a /JAN-MAR 20 1 6