Category: Features

Shirlene Omondi

The phrases “let it go” and “get over it” are the most hurtful words a human being would want to hear especially if it involves people or things we love or wish we had but never did.

It’s time we address the elephant in the room. How do breakups affect our mental health and how do we or should we handle it? We are in the 21st century, the world is evolving and with the new generation, you would not believe how young some people get into the dating world. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, kids start dating at an average age of 12 and a half for girls and 13 and a half for boys. That might seem crazy but in this era, nothing is new under the sun.

Breakups come in so many forms, it can be mutual, one-sided, and some even just ghost their partners and walk out of their lives without saying a thing. As much as some people might seem to be taking breakups lightly or rather fail to react to them, they are hurting inside. This might be because they are used to getting hurt that they no longer care whether their partners leave or not, some might get into depression and even lose hope in love or getting into romantic relationships, while others don`t actually mind, bearing the notion “there are plenty of fish in the sea.”

We are all aware that letting go or getting over someone you invested your feelings on is not as easy as people make it sound. Even though letting go might take a while, the healing process really matters. Study shows that breakups affect a lot of young people especially university students and might lead to health issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, self-harm and even suicide as observed in the several reported cases in Kenya in the previous months.

Adjusting to changes after a break-up can be tough as one is transitioning from a companionship to a state of single hood . It’s time we agree that romance and consummate are both special kind of love. So, how do we go about it when we feel like our mental health is at stake during or after a break-up? Here are some few tips from onelove website.

1. Allow yourself to fully feel everything you`re feeling
Before you decide to move on with your life, learn to accept that it has happened and there`s nothing that can be done. Cry, rant and allow yourself to experience this.

2. Establish physical and emotional boundaries with your ex
Avoid every place or anything that might lead you to meet your ex.Don`t try this cliché of wanting to go back and taking your stuff that you forgot while leaving. It might be dangerous especially if the relationship was toxic.

3. Gather your support system
Have a list of people you trust and are close to you. It might be your friends or family. Open up to them and don’t be scared to be vulnerable around them. This will give you comfort as you will not feel as lonely.

4. Re-establish your self-confidence and independence
This is the time to do what you never had time to do while in the relationship. Learn new skills, put more effort in what you love doing.

6. Seek professional help for additional support
A lot of people don’t like talking about their feelings with strangers hence avoid seeking professional help. This would be so important if nothing is working out and you are at the verge of losing hope in life and your mental health is deteriorating by day with no change.

As a young person, you should keep in mind that break-ups are a part of life and as long as you start involving yourself in romantic relationships, you are bound to experience this at least until you meet the love of your life. Sorry to break it to you but your mental health is much more important than that lady or man who treats you less than you deserve. Also, sometimes love fades and it’s healthy to part ways.

(Photo courtesy of Hon. Peninah Malonza)

By Beverly Mautiah

As announced by Hon. Peninah Malonza, the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism, Wildlife, and Heritage, the number of International tourists in the year 2022 is slowly but surely improving as compared to 2019 and 2020.

During the pre-pandemic times in 2019, the number of international arrival visitors in Kenya marked 1,483,752, whereas in 2019 the number of visitors amounted to 2,048,834, making a good improvement resulting in a recovery of 72.4% of the incoming tourists.

According to Hon. Malonza, the Tourism sector is making progress with tourists getting back after the Covid-19 pandemic. “Last year, Kenya International tourist arrivals were 1,483,752, representing a 70.45% increase as compared to 2021 arrivals of 870,465.

The inbound receipts grew up to Ksh.268.09 billion compared to Ksh. 146.51 billion in 2021 which is a growth of 83%. The arrivals represent a 72.4% recovery towards 2019 numbers which is above the global average recovery rate of 63%, “Hon. Malonza said.

Breaking down the data by Tourism Research Institute, (TRI) the report shows that among the tourist’s motives, holiday traveling topped the list at 36.6% with visiting friends and family followed by a small margin at 27.8%. Those who visited with Business and Meetings Incentives, Convention and Exhibitions {MICE} were in the third position with 27.2% as compared to 13.5% in 2019, of the total visits.

The culture and Heritage sites welcomed a total of 856,604 visitors in 2022. The Nairobi National Museum led by 23%, Kisumu Museum and Fort Jesus followed by 20% 0f the total visitations. The number of international delegates hiked from a sum of 3,341 in January to September 2021 to 18,658 in 2022.

It was noted that some initiatives such as destinations campaign both locally and Internationally hosting of occasions like The New Kenya Strategy 2022-2025 among others are what fastened the improvement of the tourists’ arrival in Kenya.

In terms of countries, The United States of America led with 209,360 visitors, Uganda, the United Kingdom and Tanzania with 12%, 10%, and 10% market shares respectively. In 2022, the flight landings recorded an increase of 38% to 62,000 in 2022 which was less than 13% compared to pre-covid 19 performance.

The Cs urged the private sectors to include everyone in their investments, ” I call on the private sector players to also focus on their investments and efforts towards inclusion and social unity as this is the only way we will continue priding ourselves as a leader in the tourism sector”. Said Malonza.

By Teddy Nyagaka and Bridget Amesa

A bonobo is a black faced chimpanzee with black hair. They are mainly found in Congo
(Zaire) rainforest. The bonobo is believed to be the closest ape relative to living man.
they have a slender build, and their arms are longer than their legs. Bonobos use bipedalism,
i.e., walking on two legs, to move through the forest, but they also use their hands and feet to
climb trees. They are arboreal, meaning they spend most of their time in trees.
Bonobos are incredibly social animals, and they live in large communities of around 100
individuals. They communicate using a combination of vocalizations, body language, and
facial expressions. They are intelligent, and their problem-solving abilities have been
compared to those of a 2-year-old child. They have also shown empathy and altruistic
behaviour towards others.
Bonobos are omnivorous, meaning they eat both plants and animals. They feed on fruits,
leaves, nuts, seeds, and insects. They also hunt small mammals like rodents, birds, and
monkeys. Unlike chimpanzees, who engage in violent behaviour like killing and eating other
primates, bonobos are relatively peaceful and non-aggressive.

They are famous for their wide-ranging sexual activities amongst each other. It is not only for
reproduction but also for bonding and playing together, conflict resolution among other
things. Bonobos are generally strong and brave while the bonobo male is 5 times stronger
than a male human being.
Bonobos are perceived to be more peaceful than other apes and are led by females. They can
however fight seriously against each other.
They are very rare creatures and a rare breed of apes.
Despite their unique behaviours bonobos are an endangered species. Bonobos are classified
as endangered on the Red List of Threatened Species. Their population has declined rapidly
over the past few decades due to habitat loss, hunting, and the illegal pet trade.
The primary threat to bonobos is deforestation, which is caused by logging, mining, and
farming activities. The Congo Basin is one of the world’s most biodiverse areas, and it is
home to many endangered species, including bonobos. The clearing of forests destroys their
habitat and disrupts their social structure. Additionally, the logging industry in the DRC has
led to increased human settlement and hunting, which further threatens the survival of
bonobos.
Hunting is another significant threat to bonobos. Bonobos are hunted for their meat, which is
considered a delicacy in some parts of the DRC.

Conservation efforts for bonobos are underway, but they face many challenges. One of the
most significant challenges is political instability in the DRC. The civil war that has plagued
the country for decades has made conservation efforts difficult. Additionally, poverty and
corruption have led to increased hunting and illegal pet trade.

By Collins wafula

The Channichthyidae, better known as Icefishes, are a mysterious and captivating species of fish found in the Southern Ocean surrounding Antarctica. These ghostly creatures are unlike any other fish in the world and have captivated the attention of scientists and nature lovers alike. With their translucent bodies and pale yellow blood, Icefishes are truly a sight to behold!

These incredible fish have adapted to the harsh and extreme conditions of the Southern Ocean in some truly remarkable ways. They don’t have red blood cells like other fish, but their blood is rich in special proteins that allow them to absorb oxygen from the water, which is vital in the cold and oxygen-poor waters of the Southern Ocean.

When it comes to social life, not much is known about Icefishes as they are elusive creatures that live in one of the harshest environments on Earth. They are typically found alone or in small groups and are not known to form large schools like other fish species.

Breeding habits of Icefishes are also largely unknown, but it is thought that they lay their eggs on the ocean floor and the eggs hatch into larvae that drift with the currents. As they grow and mature, they become more independent and settle in deeper waters.

The lifespan of Icefishes is still a mystery, but some species have been known to live for several years. Given their unique adaptations, it’s no surprise that these fish have developed some pretty weird and wonderful traits!

One of the most bizarre and fascinating adaptations of Icefishes is their ability to produce antifreeze proteins. These proteins prevent ice from forming in their bodies, which is vital for survival in the icy waters of the Southern Ocean. This adaptation is truly remarkable and highlights the resilience and ingenuity of these amazing creatures.

Whether you’re a scientist, nature lover, or just a curious individual, Icefishes are a species that will captivate and intrigue you with their ghostly appearance, remarkable adaptations, and mysterious ways. So, dive into the world of Icefishes and discover the wonders of the Southern Ocean!

By Collins Wafula

If you’re looking for an animal that’s both fascinating and intimidating, look no further than the Komodo dragon. This massive reptile is not only the largest species of lizard on Earth, but it’s also one of the most fearsome predators around. With its powerful jaws, sharp claws, and toxin-laced saliva, the Komodo dragon is a force to be reckoned with.

Found exclusively on the Indonesian islands of Komodo, Rinca, Flores, Gili Motang, and Padar, these reptiles have been around for millions of years, surviving through the ages and evolving into the dominant predators they are today. Growing up to 10 feet in length and weighing over 300 pounds, the Komodo dragon is truly a giant among lizards.

What makes these creatures even more impressive is their hunting abilities. The Komodo dragon has a keen sense of smell and can detect its prey from miles away. Once it’s found its target, it will stalk it quietly and then pounce with lightning speed, delivering a fatal bite with its powerful jaws. And if the initial bite doesn’t kill its prey, the bacteria in its saliva will finish the job, making the Komodo dragon one of the few venomous species of reptiles.

But despite their reputation as fearsome hunters, Komodo dragons are also known for their intelligence. These lizards are capable of using their tails and tongues to communicate with each other, and they have been observed using tools, such as using their tails to knock over branches to reach food. They also have a social hierarchy and will engage in physical displays to establish dominance among their peers.

If you’re lucky enough to encounter a Komodo dragon in the wild, it’s important to treat them with respect. While they’re not typically aggressive towards humans, they will defend themselves if they feel threatened. And if you do come face to face with one of these giant lizards, take a moment to appreciate their size, power, and intelligence. The Komodo dragon is truly a remarkable creature that’s survived through the ages and continues to thrive in its natural habitat.

In conclusion, the Komodo dragon is an amazing animal that should be respected and appreciated for all that it is. Its sheer size and hunting abilities make it one of the most fearsome predators on Earth, and its intelligence and social behavior make it a truly unique species. So next time you hear about these giant lizards, remember that they are not just terrifying beasts, but fascinating creatures that are an important part of our planet’s ecosystem.

By Collins Wafula

Have you ever heard of the small, yet fearless creatures known as Mongooses? These fascinating animals have captured the hearts of people all over the world with their dynamic personalities and quirky habits. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the exciting world of Mongooses and learn about their social life, biology, and all the interesting facts that make them truly magnificent creatures.

Social Life:

Mongooses are highly social animals and live in groups ranging from 5 to 30 individuals. These groups are known as gangs, and they are lead by a dominant female. The members of a gang will work together to protect each other, hunt for food, and care for their young. Mongooses have a hierarchical social structure, with the dominant female at the top, followed by the dominant male, and the rest of the gang. The social bonds between mongooses are strong, and they will often engage in playful and affectionate behaviors, such as grooming each other and cuddling.

Biology:

Mongooses are small carnivores that belong to the family Herpestidae. They have long, slender bodies and short legs, and can grow to be anywhere from 7 to 24 inches in length. Mongooses have sharp teeth and claws that are adapted for hunting small prey, such as rodents, reptiles, and insects. They are also known for their lightning-fast reflexes and agility, which help them avoid danger and catch their prey.

Interesting Facts:

Mongooses are known for their fearlessness, and they are not afraid to take on predators much larger than themselves. They are famous for their ability to kill venomous snakes, such as cobras, and have been known to use their quick reflexes to dodge the snake’s strikes and kill it.

Mongooses have a unique adaptation that allows them to resist the venom of venomous snakes. This adaptation is called mongoose serum, and it is produced by the liver and secreted into the bloodstream, where it neutralizes the venom.

Mongooses are diurnal animals, meaning that they are active during the day and sleep at night. They are also opportunistic feeders and will eat anything they can catch, including fruits and vegetables.

Mongooses have a high metabolism and need to eat frequently to maintain their energy levels. They have been known to consume up to one-third of their body weight in a single meal.

Mongooses have a playful and curious nature, and they are often seen playing and exploring their surroundings. They are also known for their intelligence and problem-solving skills, and will often use their wits to find food and escape danger.

In conclusion, Mongooses are truly magnificent creatures that are full of surprises. With their fearless personalities, social bonds, and unique adaptations, they are truly one-of-a-kind animals that are a joy to observe. So next time you come across a mongoose, take a moment to appreciate these amazing animals and all that they have to offer.

By Collins Wafula

Hedgehogs are some of the most fascinating creatures on the planet! With their spiky exterior and adorable faces, they have captured the hearts of many people around the world. But there’s so much more to these little critters than meets the eye.

First of all, did you know that hedgehogs are actually part of the mammal family? They are closely related to porcupines and have been around for millions of years. They are native to Europe, Asia, and Africa and can be found in a variety of different habitats including forests, grasslands, and deserts.

Hedgehogs are nocturnal animals, which means they are most active at night. They use their keen sense of smell to hunt for food, which can include insects, worms, and even small mammals. They are also known for their unique defense mechanism: when threatened, they will roll up into a tight ball, making it almost impossible for predators to grab hold of them.

One of the most interesting things about hedgehogs is their spiky exterior. These spines are actually modified hairs that are incredibly strong and stiff. They are made of a protein called keratin, which is the same substance that makes up human hair and nails. These spines are not only used for protection, but they also play a role in helping the hedgehog regulate its body temperature.

Hedgehogs make great pets, they are often kept as companion animals. They are very low maintenance, and they can be litter trained, and they are very active, so they will need plenty of space to run and play. They are also very sociable animals and enjoy spending time with their owners.

In conclusion, hedgehogs are amazing creatures that are much more than meets the eye. With their spiky exterior, nocturnal habits and unique defense mechanisms, they are truly one of nature’s most fascinating creations. And with the rising popularity of keeping them as pets, we can all enjoy the company of these adorable little critters.

By Collins Wafula

Ladies and gentlemen, brace yourselves for the ultimate hunter of the savannah – the African Wildcat! This fierce feline is the undisputed king (or queen) of the African grasslands, and has been surviving and thriving in the wild for centuries.

The African Wildcat is a small cat species, with a body length of up to 45 centimeters and a tail length of up to 30 centimeters. Its fur is usually a sandy yellow color, with black spots and stripes. It has large ears with tufts of black hair on the tips and sharp teeth and claws that are perfectly adapted to hunting its prey.

But don’t let its small size fool you – the African Wildcat is a fierce predator that will take on anything it can catch. It’s a skilled hunter that can stalk and ambush its prey, and has a wide-ranging diet that includes rodents, reptiles, and small mammals. It’s also an adaptable hunter, able to survive in a variety of environments, from deserts to grasslands to forests.

But the African Wildcat is not just a hunter, it’s also a survivor. It’s able to adapt to changing environments, and has even been known to thrive in areas with human activity. This adaptability, along with its generalist diet, has helped the African Wildcat maintain healthy population numbers, and they are not considered endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

But let’s not forget the African Wildcat is very closely related to the domestic cat, and in some places, interbreed with domestic cats, which can cause a threat to their genetic purity. So, it’s important to support conservation efforts that aim to protect the African Wildcat and its habitat, and to educate people on the importance of keeping their domestic cats indoors.

In conclusion, the African Wildcat is the ultimate hunter and survivor of the African savannah. With its agility, speed, and adaptability, it’s a force to be reckoned with in the wild. So, let’s do our part to protect this fierce feline and ensure that its hunting skills will be admired for generations to come.

By Collins Wafula

Step into the wilds of Africa and meet the one-of-a-kind creatures that have captured the hearts of animal lovers everywhere. We’re talking about the bold and beautiful zebras, the equines with stripes that run deep. From their lush savannas and grasslands, these incredible creatures play a vital role in maintaining the delicate balance of their habitat.

Feast on Fresh Grass: When it comes to fueling up, these herbivores take the cake! They’ve got a hearty appetite for all sorts of grasses and plants, and their ability to adapt to any environment makes them true survivors. In fact, they can go without water for long periods and still quench their thirst with the moisture in their food. Talk about impressive!

Herd Up: Zebras love to socialize and they form tight-knit herds that bond together for life. Some herds are small and family-oriented, while others are massive gatherings of hundreds of individuals. These social creatures nuzzle, groom, and protect each other, creating a bond that’s unbreakable.

Babies on the Way: When it’s time to make some new zebras, the breeding season is on! Female zebras reach sexual maturity at the young age of 2-3 years, while males wait until they’re 3-4 years old to join in the fun. The breeding season varies, but usually happens during the wet season, and after a year-long gestation period, a single foal is born. With the help of the herd, the mother raises her little one to be strong and brave.

Weird and Wonderful: Here are a few zebra facts that will make your jaw drop:

When danger threatens, these clever creatures form a defensive circle around their foals, tails facing outwards, making it impossible for predators to get through.
Every zebra has a one-of-a-kind stripe pattern, just like a human’s fingerprint.
With their excellent eyesight and agility, zebras are a tough catch for any predator.
So buckle up, folks, and get ready for an exciting adventure through the world of zebras. From their feeding habits to their social bonds, breeding behaviors, and unique defense mechanisms, these stripe-wearing equines are truly a sight to behold.