Karibu.Like you I watched in horror as the devastating terrorist attack at Westgate Mall unfolded on television and online. The four-day-long siege began on September 21st and claimed the lives of
at least 67 people.
The last time I was at Westgate Mall was in 2009. I was there on my honeymoon and having grown up in Kenya, I am still in disbelief with what happened. My friends are I were talking about how
when something this monumental happens, and please excuse the cliché; it becomes easy to draw conclusions and to paint a picture with one brush. There’s a sense that the attack will have bigger implications for Kenya’s economy and in turn it would affect the livelihoods of its people. Tourism numbers have already dropped since the attack.
Hopefully we won’t forget about what makes this country a wonderful place. Kenya continues to be one of the key countries that accept refugees in the East African region. And shortly before the attack,
two huge under water wells were discovered in the drought-plagued Turkana County in North Kenya. This is an astounding find that will change the lives of many. Scientists used satellite and geological
technology to find the wells and this water source could meet the country’s water needs for the next 70 years. How jaw-dropping is that?
In this issue of The African Business Journal, Rex Taylor writes a compelling first-piece account defending Kenya’s position and noted Industrialist and Philanthropist, Ivor Ichikowitz writes that in order for Africa to move forward, it needs innovation not trade or aid.
Our focus this month is on Durban, the largest city in the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal. Sean Rogers at Know Africa tells us about the role of Durban as a port city and we connect with
the team at #ilovedurban to bring you a comprehensive list which includes ‘where to buy property’, ‘where to eat’ and ‘what to do’ when in Durban.
I hope you enjoy this issue and many thanks to the TABJ team. It’s been a pleasure getting to know you on twitter and thank you for getting in touch via email.
As always, we are curious about business and we are curious about you.
