B U L L E T I N

mid-year ediTiON 2011

7 Tips ON hOw TO make healThy Nyama chOma

Beef UP

d eken 2 at a we for way lt geta rova sa e g sa k lod lic

doctor's orders

keepiNg Flu aT bay

aar crediT OpeNs crediT liNe TO pOsT baNk cusTOmers

money matters

going green

imprOviNg healTh ThrOugh beTTer eNvirONmeNT

's ay fatherm Thddad e u

meeT kid

vaccines
arming the fight against disease

www.aarhealth.com

SAROVA SALT LICK GAME LODGE

TAITA HILLS - TSAVO

www.sarovahotels.com

!d N Ieken W eor 2 aw f
The ideal safari experience, Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge offers an unparalleled safari experience. The entire lodge is raised on high stilts above watering holes and feeding pastures offering a spectacular view of the wildlife from above and all around. The Sanctuary is a success story in sustainable conservation where wildlife - including elephant, lion, buffalo and giraffe thrive.
Name: .......................................................................................................... Membership Number: ........................................................................... Town/City: .................................................................................................. * To win answer the following questions:1. Name one of AARs individual products 2. What is AARs website address? 3. Which AAR product is tailored for schools? Email your answers to: rmuthami@aar.co.ke The first correct entry will win the weekend getaway

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR LAST ISSUE WINNER: EVA MAHOGO

* AAR employees and their families do not qualify for this competition

Tel: 041 2128000 / 0721 786 433 / 0735 337 996 Email: reservation@sarovahotels.com

MID-YEAR EDITION 2011

7 24 10
NEWS 10 KENYA Opportunities for the Creating
Kenyan Youth Promoting Breast Cancer Awareness Enhancing Mental Health Awareness AAR Donates to Nairobi Remand Prison Obesity - Africas Newest Silent Killer

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14 TANZANIA NEWS Loyalty Partnership

A New Feather with Peacock Gongolamboto Bomb Victims Get Support from AAR
PRODucED AND PublIshED bY:

NEWS 16 UGANDA Day World Aids

Bamburi Rugby Super Series Tackling the Corporate League AAR Promotes Healthy Lifestyle for Women

www.crossovermedia.co.ke

P.O. box 17629-00100 GPO Nairobi, Tel: +254-20-2647059, cell: +254-729-796333, Email: info@crossovermedia.co.ke, suite A1, Machera courts, Komo lane, Off Wood Avenue, Off Argwings Kodhek Rd, Kilimani

The editorial content and individual opinions expressed herein are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of AAR. Neither AAR nor the Publishers accept any responsibility for the content. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

MESSAGE FROM THE

our core community engagement is in environment, coordinated through the aar Beckmann trust. we will continue to do our bit by planting trees to mark important days such as the world environment day on June 5, whose theme this year is 'forests: nature at your service'.

Jagi Gakunju, Group CEO.

Picture: Emmanuel Jambo

he greatest investment you can ever make is in your health. It is the basis of all your accomplishments, both at the family and social level. We understand and appreciate this, hence our strategic commitment to advance the provision of healthcare to a majority of

people within the East African region in a professional and cost-effective manner. This commitment underlies our vision to be the provider of choice for innovative and quality healthcare solutions in Africa. It underscores the tactical direction taken by AAR last November to bring on board a strategic investor The Investment Fund for health in Africa (IFhA) - into the business. With the Ksh 750 million injected into our operation by the Netherlandsbased IFhA, we have strengthened our capital base and expanded our capacity towards the fulfillment of our goals, for our staff, shareholders, suppliers, service providers and members. Our overall mid to long term aspiration is to be listed at the stock exchanges in East Africa, and in so doing, give our members and partners in the region an opportunity to share in our success. It is our plan to further extend the reach of our healthcare centres throughout East Africa so that we can bring our services even closer to our members. In addition, we are planning to venture into acute care facilities as part of our objective to offer quality and affordable healthcare to all. We are already bringing medium and low income groups under the quality healthcare bracket through initiatives such as the partnership with PharmA-

cess, a non-profit donor funded Dutch agency. In Nandi county in Kenya for instance, we launched the Tanyikina healthcare scheme in partnership with PharmAccess. This is aimed at providing reasonably priced and excellent healthcare to dairy farmers in the area. And as we join the united Nations in celebrating 2011 as the 'International Year of Forests', we are alive to the connection between our health and the environment. It is for this reason that our core community engagement is in the environment, coordinated through the AAR beckmann Trust. We will continue to do our bit by planting trees to mark important days such as the World Environment Day on June 5, whose theme this year is 'Forests: Nature at your service.' We intend to provide our members with a truly one-stop-shop to meet all their healthcare needs. With us, you need not worry about your health. let us take the burden off your shoulders and free you to gainfully engage in your day-to-day life. Visit us today for unrivalled professional service offered by a dedicated team of both support and qualified medical staff. I wish you good health!

Compliments of...
THE GIFT OF GOOD HEALTH My daughter Kristin Wambugu has undergone considerable treatment over time. Were it not for AAR, I would not have been abIe to foot the high medical bills. Your compassion and professional service have assured a healthy life for my daughter and I am forever indebted to you. life is God given and we are bound to take care of it in the best way. Your service and the role you play to foster good health is a service that is done as unto God. May your work be blessed and may God empower you to reach more people. Thank you. Michael Wambugu Ndonye SAVED FROM THE JAWS OF DEATH I CAN NOW SEE Twenty years ago, I started wearing glasses because I couldnt see very well. I was diagnosed with myopia and astigmatism. In 2009, my ophthalmologist prescribed steroids and artificial tears, only to be diagnosed with cataracts again. Doctors recommended surgery to replace my old lenses and all surrounding eye fluid with a new implant. but a multi-focal intra-ocular implant is not an everyday procedure. It is a very new technology that requires high precision and pristine theatre conditions. both the new lenses and the consultant surgeon needed to be procured from Germany. It is a pricey procedure and one that I would not have afforded without AAR. Im eternally grateful to AAR for making this possible. After the surgery last year, I can now see without any problems. Thank you AAR. Gacheche Waruingi The darkest day of my life was when I was involved in a grisly road accident in 2004, near Kabarak Primary school in Nakuru. My world came crashing and my dreams were almost shattered. From the mangled wreck where I was rescued, most people had written me off. My near fatal injuries made the situation look hopeless. Thank God AAR did not give up on me. I was rescued and rushed to the War Memorial hospital in Nakuru, before being evacuated to the Aga Khan hospital in Nairobi. Thanks to AAR, I was accorded the best medical service and my broken limbs were restored through surgery that included insertion of metal plates to hold my bones.

droP Us a line
We want to know whats on your mind. Please share your thoughts and experiences with us. Write to info@aar.co.ke or info@crossovermedia.co.ke and tell us what you think.

I am now fully recovered and lead a very active life that is filled with hope. Recently, I managed to scale the Morop hills the highest hills in baringo in the company of physically fit colleagues without any problem. My thanks go to all AAR staff for their genuine help. I am particularly grateful to Mr. Musunga, AARs Marketing consultant; and Joan who encouraged me throughout my ordeal and made the recovery process bearable. Samuel Kiyai

DISEASE PREVENTION
vaccines

cost is one of the challenges experienced by mothers seeking vaccination for their children.

arm
4

a shot in the

Some developed economies have aptly combated immunisable diseases such as measles and polio to low levels and even to point zero
Words: Wangui Wachira Picture: UNICEF/NYHQ-2009-0829/Li

uch has been said for and against vaccines. The benefits, dangers, relevance and other similar discussions have been posed by an ever inquisitive populace. however, it must be acknowledged that ever since the first human vaccine was administered for smallpox in 1796, it changed the landscape of medicine. Finally, there was a way to prevent infectious diseases in humans and by extension, deaths. Vaccines have been especially good in combating childhood diseases. some developed economies have

aptly combated immunisable diseases such as measles and polio to low levels and even to point zero. In Africa, many childhood deaths are as a result of preventable diseases. That is why bodies such as the World health Organisation (WhO) and uNIcEF are at the forefront of implementing programmes that will see African countries achieve goal four of the Millenium Development Goals, to reduce child mortality by two-thirds, from 93 children of every 1,000 dying before age five in 1990; to 31 of every 1,000 in 2015. Kenya has not been left behind in combating these diseases. Though more work needs to be done, the gov-

ernment has continued to introduce new vaccines as they are released into the markets globally, as well as roll out various vaccinations campaigns. There are quite a number of vaccines available locally to fight different childhood illnesses. The most recent of these is the Pneumococcal conjugate Vaccine introduced in February 2011. It helps to protect against pneumonia, meningitis and ear infections, says Dr. Winnie Nganga of Meru level 5 hospital. Kenya was the first country to introduce the vaccine in Africa and it targets children between six weeks and 12 months. Other immunisable diseases are measles, Tb, tetanus, polio,

hepatitis b, whooping cough and haemophilus influenza type b (hIb). Referring to the Kenya Essential Package for health (KEPh), Dr. Nganga gives the following vaccines as the recommended ones: BCG vaccine (TB) and Oral Polio Vaccine(OPV); given at birth OPV, Diphtheria, Pertusis, Tetanus, Hepatitis B, Haemophilus Influenza (pentavalent) and Pneumococcal Vaccine; given at week six, with follow-ups in weeks 10 and 14 Measles vaccines; given at nine months Vitamin A; given from six months and thereafter administered every six months Deworming; given from two years and thereafter administered every three to six months. Distance from hospitals and health centres, lack of awareness and cost are some of the challenges experienced by mothers seeking vaccination for their children. On cost however, Dr. Nganga says, We (the medical fraternity) are aware of these and other challenges and working in various capacities to tackle them. For instance on cost, the government policy is free healthcare for all children under five years in government hospitals. This applies equally to all other health services. In private hospitals, this is not the case. They however offer a range of vaccines which are said to be child friendly with minimal side effects.

Usage in adUlts
Vaccination hardly features in the Kenyan adult population but for some serious and potentially fatal illnesses, protection is advised. Influenza and cervical cancer are some of the adult immunisable diseases. Women in the country can seek vaccination against the highly contagious

vaccines

human Papilloma Virus (hPV), which causes the most prevalent cancer in Kenyan women, cervical cancer. chances are however, that few even know it exists. According to WhO, at least 38.8% of women in the country are estimated to harbour the virus. commonly referred to as the silent killer, at least 60% of sexually active women have been exposed to the virus without any symptoms developing. In these cases, it goes away on its own. There are currently two vaccines in the market - GlaxosmithKlines cervarix and Mercks Gardasil. Ranging between Ksh10,000 and 15,000; both are still out of bounds for the majority. The vaccines are recommended for young girls between ages nine to 16, before becoming sexually active; but older women up to age 55 would still benefit from the vaccine as they target the four strains of hPV that cause most cervical cancers and genital warts - hPV 16 and 18, and hPV 6 and 11 respectively. The seasonal flu, also known as influenza, is another illness to be on the lookout for. Its onset is usually marked by the cold season in Kenya

that runs from the long rains in March, sometimes pushing into the short rain months of October and November. Pregnant women, the elderly, those suffering from chronic ailments and reduced immunity are part of the highrisk groups. Its symptoms closely resemble those of the common cold and are consequently shrugged away with self medication by the majority. Influenza symptoms are more severe and can be more prolonged. These include high fever, extreme fatigue, sore throat, muscle pain, headaches, runny nose and in some cases, diarrhoea and vomiting. It is administered to adults and children over six months. Advices Dr. Nganga: The influenza vaccine is available in most clinics and can be obtained in most private hospitals. The cost ranges from Ksh 800 to Ksh1,200. The vaccine is given yearly and is valid for only a year, after which a new vaccine is produced to avoid resistance and also to cater for the virus mutations that occur. swine Flu, h1N1 influenza virus, put the world on edge, and to some extent Kenya, when the first cases were reported in the 21 century. Displaying similar symptoms to the seasonal flu,

the virus is naturally found in pigs and other mammals, including humans. It spreads fast and as it is relatively new, research is still ongoing on upgrading the available vaccines to counter mutation of the virus. The h1N1 influenza virus vaccine was introduced in Kenya in 2009 following a number of outbreaks which were fatal in some cases, with an additional 730,000 doses of the vaccine received in 2010. The state of emergency created by declaring the virus a pandemic has been widely criticised in many quarters. late in mid-2010, WhO announced that the pandemic was over globally but the agency defended itself by urging vigilance over being complacent, adding that the flu would continue to circulate as part of seasonal influenza and that the stockpile available in the countries that had stocked the vaccine was still valid. Much as government and other supporting systems need to be in place for optimum health to be achieved, personal initiative is also a pre-requisite to gaining knowledge and empowerment.
Visit any AAR clinic for advice and administration of vaccines.

CREDIT SERVICES

new deal

a customer being served in one of Postbanks branches.

with PostBank
n seeking to meet the demands and requirements of its clients, Postbank has entered into a strategic partnership with AAR credit services ltd in an arrangement that will see Postbank customers access credit services from AAR credit services ltd. This is in line with the banks desire to provide its clients with a reasonably-priced credit facility mechanism as a value-added benefit to its core business of financial services. Through this offering, the bank is expected to improve its customer satisfaction, loyalty and even attract more customers. The arrangement will further deepen the penetration of micro-credit to the low end of the market, ultimately leading to economic empowerment and national growth. This credit facility has competitive repayment interest rates and flexible repayment terms. One can get up to a maximum of Ksh 10 million, entirely unsecured and customers may also opt to liquidate their loans at any time before maturity, without incurring any penalties, as interest is only levied for the running/expired period of the loan. In its endeavor to remain the bank of choice, Postbank offers a variety of products and services carefully designed with its clients' needs and desires in mind. These products range from transaction accounts, savings accounts, VIsA credit and micro-insurance. Other services offered include money transfer, cash collection, disbursement, stock dealing and mobile banking. services are available in all of Postbanks 94 branches countrywide. The addition of credit services to its product portfolio will further boost the banks endeavour to being the bank of choice for Kenyans. For more information, visit your nearest Postbank branch or get in touch through the contacts below: HEADQUARTERS-POSTBANK HOUSE, BANDA STREET P.O. Box 30311-00100 NAIROBI Email: info@postbank.co.ke Website: www.postbank.co.ke Tel: 020-229551-6 Help Desk: 020-2803-000 Fax: 020-229186

one can get up to a maximum of ksh 10 million entirely unsecured and also opt to liquidate one's loans at any time before maturity.

DIET& FITNESS
men's health

We celebrate this year's Father's Day with some fingerlicking Nyama Choma for dads. Yes, they may be clumsy in the kitchen, but with the tips below, any dad can become a grill master:

healthy
Words: Wanjiku Wairia-Lumula Pictures: Thinkstock

BarBecUe to the rescUe

960 milligrams sodium (depending on brand) Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons contain 30 calories, 0 grams fat, and 20 milligrams sodium soy sauce (less-sodium type): 2 tablespoons contain 20 calories, 0 grams fat, and 1,150 milligrams sodium

Bold ingredients

Marinade

You can add bold flavours without adding to your love handles. here are some of our favorite ingredients for sauces and marinades: chili sauce: 2 tablespoons contain 40 calories, 0 grams fat, and

One of the easiest ways to marinate meat, chicken, fish or vegetables is to place them inside a large, re-sealable plastic bag. set the bag in a medium sized bowl, and then drizzle the marinade over the food. seal the bag,

eliminating any excess air. The food should be surrounded by the marinade. Keep marinating in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill. For best results, marinate the meat overnight.

lightly with a little olive oil or canola oil.

indirect heat as well but it will take longer to cook.

Lean meat

Portions

Sweetness

Adding a small amount of a sweet ingredient (like fruit juice, brown sugar, honey or molasses) to the marinade or grilling sauce can be a good and tasty thing. It adds flavor and helps to balance out other bold spices. but too much sweetness can cause the meat, fish, or vegetables to burn when they're grilled over high heat.

half the fat in chicken breast and thigh is in the skin, which is why so many of us enjoy our chicken skinless. consider: 4 ounces of roasted chicken breast with skin contains 223 calories, 8.8 grams of fat, and 2.5 grams of saturated fat 4 ounces of roasted chicken breast without skin contains 187 calories, 4 grams of fat, and 1.2 grams of saturated fat but if you cook your chicken with the skin on, then take it off at the dinner table, you'll lose all the flavour from your marinade, bbQ sauce, or rubs and seasonings. so go ahead and take the skin off before you prepare the chicken for grilling. Marinate skinless chicken breasts and thighs for about 2 hours in the refrigerator. let the marinade drain off, then cook chicken over direct high heat or direct medium heat until it's cooked. Always check the thickest part of the chicken breast or thigh to check if it is cooked. You can cook chicken over

Grill meat in smaller portions, for example: Kebabs made with small pieces of meat, alternated with vegetables. link sausage cut in half lengthwise instead of grilled whole. Thin slices of larger cuts of meat (such as whole pork tenderloin, roasts, etc). let the meat rest 10 minutes after cooking, then slice before serving to family or guests.

Vegetables

Tenderisers

The best part about grilling vegetables is that you don't have to worry about overcooking them as you do with some types of meat. And vegetables seem to taste better grilled than when cooked any other way. Marinating vegetables will help them caramelise better when they're grilled, and it's the caramelisation that brings the best flavors. Just submerge the vegetables in marinade for about an hour before putting them on the grill. If you don't have that kind of prep time, just coat the vegetables ever so

When grilling lean meat, use lowerfat marinades with acid ingredients to help break down the tough fibers. Marinades add lots of flavour, too. but keep in mind that the power of marinades is only skin-deep. They can tenderize the surface of the meat only to about 1/4 inch. That's why it's important to make sure the marinade covers the entire surface of your meat. It also helps to score the meat (cut into the surface about 1/4 inches deep with a sharp knife in several places) before coating it with marinade.

roast leg of goat (or lamB) reciPe

Ingredients (8-10 servings) 5 lbs leg of goat or lamb 5 garlic cloves cup soy sauce 2 tbs corn oil 1tsp dried rosemary Pinch of salt and ground black pepper Method; 1. score the goat or lamb and insert the garlic cloves into the meat. 2. Mix the remaining ingredients and rub the meat thoroughly with this marinade. 3. let it stand covered for several hours. In an oven heated to 375F, roast the meat for 2 hours. 4. brush it often with marinade. 5. You may also roast or barbecue the meat on a grill but remember to brush it often with the marinade.

KENYA NEWS

creating oPPortUnities for the kenyan yoUth

AR recently took part in roundtable discussions at strathmore university in Nairobi where students had an opportunity to interact and network with members of various corporate organisations. This was a platform for students to ask questions and demystify what really takes place in the job market. At the same time, it was a chance for AAR to market its health services. AAR was represented by the Group human Resource Manager, Mercy Nduku, who was among the selected panellists. she was accompanied by AAR's business Development Manager - Truphosa hapisu, health centre Manager - Dr. lorraine Mugambi, Irene Munene and Eugene sanya of human Resources and Information Technology respectively. AAR was also represented at the universitys career fair which took place in February 28, 2011 and had an opportunity to interact with the graduating students and answer their questions regarding employment and internship opportunities.

over hills and moUntains

ust a day before Valentines in February this year, out of love for Mount Kenya, AAR Action participated in the 10 to four mountain bike challenge, by offering emergency medical care to cyclists courtesy of the Mount Kenya Trust. The Trust is a Kenyan based organisation dedicated to helping, preserving and protecting Mount Kenya. It relies on the generosity of supporters and friends. The Trust has a key supporter and new friend in AAR.

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KENYA NEWS
from left: dr. Jennifer riria (kwft), mrs. maryjka Beckmann (aar), dr. edward rukwaro (regional general manager aar healthcare) and mwangi githaiga (md, kwft).

Promoting Breast cancer awareness

n October 2010, AAR partnered with Kenya Women's Finance Trust (KWFT) to promote women's health in Kenya. This was done through a health camp in Kangemi that sought to promote breast cancer awareness by sharing of information on the disease and providing access to screening services and consultation.

KENYA NEWS

R E
12

enhancing mental health awareness

included eight doctors and nurses from various AAR branches across Kenya. The objective of the course was to increase the mental health capacity in primary care. During the five day workshop, various aspects of mental healthcare including identification, diagnosis and management of common mental disorders were discussed in depth. Dr. Frank Njenga, psychiatrist consultant and AAR chairman, opened the workshop with remarks which enlightened the participants to the fact that in Kenya, there is approximately one specialist psychiatrist for every 500,000 people. The workshop was participatory in nature. Over the following weeks after it concluded, participants disseminated the knowledge, skills and competence acquired during the training in form of post-training feedback and various internal cME (continuous Medical Education) sessions.

ecently, the Kenya Medical Training college, in collaboration with the Ministry of health, Kenya Psychiatric Association, World health Organisation, the Institute of Psychiatry, london; and The Nuffield Foundation, held a joint training workshop. Workshop participants

aar to the rescUe - again!

arly this year, AAR celebrated the arrival of a new ambulance fleet at the Mombasa port. The company does not leave anything to chance when it comes to its members and customers.

oBesity - africas newest silent killer

lifestyle change - most notably, modification of eating habits, physical activity, and psychological factors like attitudes, goals, and emotions - will determine whether people will lose weight and keep it off. Obesity causes a range of very serious physical and mental health problems, ranging from diabetes to cancer, heart disease, infertility and psychological disorders. AARs health Promotion department has in the recent months been organising group nutrition and lifestyle talks to sensitise members on the need for lifestyle change. It is more important than ever for people to take responsibility for their health and to do everything possible to get into excellent health. The most recent talk was held at AAR, sarit centre on November, 6 2010 and provided an opportunity for AAR members to share experiences and learn more about nutrition and lifestyle.

aar donates to nairoBi remand Prison

n empathy with remandees in Kenyan prisons, AAR has donated, and will continue to make donations towards raising the standards of living in Kenyan prisons. Recently, AAR staff and management donated an autoclave machine, suture packs and wound dressings, and food stuff.

Pauline Wanja Ngare (in uniform), former Officer in charge of Nairobi remand, now assistant commissioner of Prisons; dr. John kibosya (second left), director of health services, Prisons; Jagi gakunju (right), aar's group ceo and mercy nduku (left) aar's group hr manager, presenting donations to nairobi remand prison.

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TANZANIA NEWS

loyalty PartnershiP

n March this year, AAR Tanzania entered into a loyalty partnership agreement with The Paradise city hotel in Dar-essalaam. With the hotels 72 air-conditioned suites, fitted with king size beds and complemented by the summit and lemon Tree restaurants, conference halls and savannah lounges; AAR members will enjoy the privilege of a 10% discount on accommodation and 15% discount on food. AAR has a similar arrangement with Peacock hotels, Kelken Fitness centre, Msafiri Travels, Genesis health centres, Arusha Fitness centre, IP Fitness centre and Furniture centre.

KENYA NEWS

aar gate Plates for new gate plates or to replace your old ones, call us on:
kenya: Uganda: tanzania: +254 20 2717374/5/6 +256 414 560900 +255 786 747777

www.aarhealth.com
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TANZANIA NEWS

A O
gongolamBoto BomB victims get sUPPort from aar
n the evening of Wednesday, February 16, 2011 at 6:30pm, a series of explosions shook Gongolamboto, the Eastern Tanzanian military base in Dar-es-salaam. The explosion was caused when a munitions stockpile located near a residential area caught fire. hundreds of injuries and at least 23 deaths were reported, and the Dar-es-salaam International Airport was closed temporarily. AAR employees living in proximity to the affected areas, including Kitunda, Kivule, Majohe, banana, chanika, and ukonga, were however unharmed. As part of our corporate social responsibility, we donated food and clothes to assist the victims resume their normal lives.

a new feather with Peacock

AR has entered into an agreement with Peacock hotels in Dar-essalaam. As a result, both AAR members and Peacock hotels customers will have the privilege of receiving discounts from both companies. AAR members will receive a 15% discount on accommodation and a 10% discount on food and beverages at the Peacock city centre and the Peacock Millennium Tower hotels. AAR will offer a 5% discount to Peacock hotel customers who sign up as AAR members.

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UGANDA NEWS

left: group ceo, Jagi gakunju, speaks to staff at the Bugolobi clinic in Uganda. right: clinic receptionist wearing the red ribbon in solidarity with the cause.

L
BamBUri rUgBy sUPer series
This year, the bamburi Rugby super series uganda franchise will once again be boosted by medical sponsorship from AAR uganda, to cover all the matches that started on April 30, 2011. We are catering for the players health and medical comfort on and off the pitch during the tournament and our ambulance will be fully equipped to international standards, General Manager Mark Achola said at a launch function held at the Kyadondo Rugby grounds.

world aids day

ast year on 1st December, AAR staff in uganda commemorated Worlds Aids Day. Group chief Executive Officer Jagi Gakunju joined staff to remember loved ones who have died and to celebrate a future that can be hIV free. staff wore the red ribbon in solidarity with people infected and affected by hIV and AIDs around the world. World Aids Day is commemorated on 1st December every year across the globe.

tackling the corPorate leagUe

For over five years now, AAR uganda has been the official medical sponsor and active participant at all the corporate league sports outings. corporate league ltd is a sports events company that brings together different corporates to participate in a variety of sports disciplines including football, swimming, pool table, table tennis, bowling, basketball, netball, volleyball, athletics and sackwalking. At the end of last years football season, AAR uganda was placed 4th in the league standings. corporate teams constitute only members of staff.

16

aar Promotes healthy lifestyle for women

n saturday, 5 February 2011, AAR uganda participated in the Full Woman health camp that was organised by the Daily Monitor, a newspaper that publishes the Full Woman Saturday magazine. At the camp, health practitioners tackled various health issues. The camp focused on healthy eating and beauty regimens. specialists addressed health issues related to eating habits such as diabetes and heart disease. AAR sponsored a stall where body Mass Index (bMI) and blood pressure were tested for free. The health camp attracted over 5,000 people. In addition to the free testing, AAR medical team sensitised the public on healthy living and lifestyle diseases.

UGANDA NEWS

new staff
may opondo
Relationship Manager

Bernadette ntumba
Care Assessor

Joan m. mukisa
Medical Underwriter

geoffrey ojiambo
Pharmacist

faridah nanyazi
Customer Care Manager

alex mutabazi
Quality Assurance Manager

ismail luyinda
Cashier

gertrude nakaweesa
Claims Assessor

norah nakato
Cashier

ronald kazibwe
Pharmacy Dispenser

emmanuel kibirige
Pharmacy Dispenser

17

KENYA HOLDINGS NEWS

congratUlations aar, tanzania

above: aar ceo, Jagi gakunju (second left), receiving his eco warrior award. Below: Jagi gakunju (second right), is joined by colleagues, family and friends to celebrate the award.

aar group it manager, wilfred rono receives the aar award at the cio100 symposium at the safari Park hotel, nairobi.

ongratulations to AAR Tanzania which recently won a cIO award. An entry by the AAR Tanzania IT department titled, sMs Query system for Member Validity, came out tops. The entry was nominated as a case study under the services sector category for presentation, and further review at the symposium. The system was nominated for its simplicity and potential to resolve large scale conflicts between AAR and service partners.

aar ceo wins eco warrior award

AAR Group chief Executive, Mr. Jagi Gakunju, was nominated for and ultimately won the 2010 EcO WARRIOR AWARD in the Individual category during the Ecotourism Gala Dinner. he won the award for his efforts in promoting conservation and eco-tourism. The award was established to recognise individuals who have initiated or demonstrated strong leadership in innovative projects, products, or programmes that advocate for uniting communities, tourism and conservation. The nomination was submitted by one Wangechi Kanyugo who pointed out Mr. Gakunju's initiative in establishing Wajee Nature Park in Nyeri and Wajee Mara camp, in Narok county.

dUtch healthcare investor acQUires stake in aar

AR has signed a Kshs. 750 million capital injection deal with the Investment Fund for health in Africa (IFhA) of Netherlands. IFhA is a private equity fund that focuses on investment opportunities in selected organisations active in healthcare and in the provision of medical related services in Africa. IFhA have taken an initial 20 per cent equity stake in AAR with an option of acquiring a further 66%. Recently, AAR also ventured into the West African market through a partnership with Ghana's leading medical insurance firm, Med-X. "The coming days will be very exciting for AAR and its esteemed clients," said cEO Jagi Gakunju.

A
18

aar group ceo, Jagi gakunju (left), aar chairman, dr. frank njenga (centre) and the managing director of ifha's investment consortium, max coppoolse (right) during a press conference to announce the investment by ifha in aar.

HOLDINGS
mr. method kashonda

tanzania welcomes a new Board memBer

AAR congratulates Mr. Method Kashonda who was appointed a board Member of AAR health services, Tanzania; effective November, 2010. This position will allow him to continue working as a highly appreciated member of the Audit committee for AAR, Tanzania. Mr. Kashonda will also take up the role of chairman of the committee.

the family of the late hakim wansawa, an aar employee who passed on in the line of duty, receiving their funeral's benefit cheque from the AAR group CEO and the HR team. The late wansawa will be remembered for his jovial and caring nature.

aar senior managers and guests during the launch of the tanyikina community healthcare scheme.

affordaBle healthcare for tanyikina commUnity

n April 1, 2011 in salien at the new Tanyikina Dairy Plant building, senior officials of AAR, PharmAccess and Tanyikina Dairy Plant ltd, launched the Tanyikina community healthcare scheme. The scheme is a joint initiative between Tanyikina Dairy Plant ltd., AAR and PharmAccess Foundation; and is aimed at providing affordable primary and (limited) secondary healthcare to Tanyikina members and their households.

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KENYA WE CARE NEWS

aar Beckmann trUst
Health is life
2011 year of the forest

april 2011 - aar group ceo, Jagi gakunju, hands out the Billion tree campaign certificates to AAR staff who have personally bought and then planted trees on their different pieces of land all over kenya between april 2010 and april 2011.

Health Environment

Trees
Billion tree camPaign - aar is a memBer

ngei Primary school in nairobi southlands after a tree planting activity- april 2011.

aar Beckmann trUst (aarBt)

AR beckmann Trust (AARbT) set up in 2007 is the trust arm of AAR holdings ltd. The aim of the Trust is to facilitate the development of a healthcare environment and network that ensures competence and quality of performance in AARs health management approach that contributes positively to poverty reduction by improving the health standards of the general population. To start with, the Trust has taken the decision to build on environmental activities which impact and contribute directly on peoples health.

aarBt builds on environmental activities which contributes to peoples health.

Programmes
Trees for Health AARbT's Trees for Health project goal is to "Improve health through better environment & sanitation. This programme mainly targets schools from the fringe urban areas of Nairobi and its environs. It has expanded its scope of operation to Kajiado, Naivasha, Kinangop, Kipkaren, Machakos, Kitui and the coast. Over 14,525 trees have been planted in Kenya through this programme and the energy savings made have facilitated 4,100 children to be dewormed in JanuaryApril 2011 alone. AAR health teams have recognised that worms in school children is very debilitating but so easily eliminated

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KENYA NEWS
aar tanzania donates to kidz care childrens home in Bagamoyoled by dr. kandie ngochoch & rosemary simon in march 2011. aar kenya- gwh and odyssey agency during a cleanup exercise at nairobi city Park in february 2011.

environment that will directly impact on health.

other aar commUnity engagement activities:

sponsoring university students of KuMuN club Facilitating old newspaper collection for The cluster Foundation to help paraplegics Advisory support to ujamaa Family centre in Mukuru Kwa Njenga Facilitating major sponsorship towards the building, and now open, Woman surgical ward in Ruaraka Neema uhai hospital computer donations to schools

kenyatta University model United nations club (kUmUn) in voi. the aar Beckmann trust donated 200 trees which were planted in voi town in february 2011.

health hazard. AARs Trees for Health programme in partnership with GreenAfrica Foundation, Wildlife clubs of Kenya, VAP and best buddies encourages schools to grow their own source of fuel; in this way AAR is moulding an environment of health conscious generation while contributing to achieving the Millennium Development Goals as well as the countrys 2030 Vision.

chamPions of change aar staff memBers

AAR staff members by being environmentally conscious are making a difference to the environment and the community one tree at a time. At AAR we are proud to be part of the enlightenment of the future generation, in taking care of the environment, their basic health while making it a fun activity for all. support our Trees for health project and make a difference in the basic health of children- The future generation!
For tree seedlings and potted plants contact AARBT: jambiyo@aar.co.ke

aar commUnity engagement & evP

Through the community Engagement & Employee Voluntary Programmes (EVP) the AAR beckmann Trust provides opportunities for AAR staff to walk the talk and impact positively on the environment & communities health, while giving back to the society through initiatives that foster a healthy

aarBt encourages personal tree planting salama Muhunzi, the PR Officer AAR Tanzania and family, in viwege village tanzania. salama is walking the talk!

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HEALTHY KENYA YOU NEWS

the common cold
he common cold is a minor ailment yet one that greatly slows down our daily routine and in most cases, brings it to a temporary stop. common colds are caused by more than 200 viruses the symptoms of which are a runny nose, headache, joint and muscle aches, sore throat, sneezing, fever and a general sense of malaise. usually a cold will last for about seven days. It spreads rapidly through the air or through contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces. All the years of medical research have not found a cure for the common cold and the medication available is usually to manage the symptoms rather than cure the disease. Antihistamines, oral and topical decongestants, cough syrups, lozenges and mouthwash are just some of the medications prescribed or bought over-the-counter. Antibiotics do not help in this case as they target bacteria whereas the cold is caused by viruses. Aside from conventional drugs, natural cures do an equally good job and can save you some money. These are not instant solutions, but they do give the body a chance to heal itself naturally over the course of the illness. here are some easy-to-follow remedies readily available in your kitchen:

how to stay

flU free
Look no further than your kitchen to treat the sniffles
Words: Wangui Wachira Picture: Thinkstock

for all-roUnd relief:

1. Dilute one lemon in a glass of warm water. Add a teaspoon of honey. Take this twice a day; 2. Make ginger tea by boiling a cup of water and a teaspoon of ginger. It is even better to use a fresh piece of ginger. let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes. Pour in a cup and add a tablespoon of honey and juice of half a lemon. Take at least two portions a day; 3. Make use of the antioxidant benefits of green tea. sip throughout the day; 4. Eat three cloves of raw garlic once

daily. chew on fresh parsley to get rid of garlic breath; 5. stock up on lots of chicken soup. studies have shown that it contains anti-inflammatory properties that fight cold symptoms. It is also packed with nutrition which you need to get better.

to decongest the Passageways:

Pour hot water into a basin/bucket and add a blob or two of Rob, Vicks or similar vaporiser. Drape a towel over your head and bend over the basin/

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bucket to inhale the steam. come up for air every few seconds and as your passageways get decongested, blow your nose. Repeat until you feel some relief. If your nose is too stuffy, you can inhale the steam through your mouth and be careful not to get burned. You can also apply the vaporiser under your nose or on your chest to relieve pain and to aid breathing.

for a dry and stUffy nose:

Add teaspoon of salt to 5ml lukewarm water. use one to two drops in each nostril at least three times a day.

for sore throat:

Gargle salt solution of one teaspoon salt and a glass of warm water several times a day.

etiQUette, care & Prevention of colds

Flush out toxins and rehydrate your body by drinking lots of fluids like warm water and fresh juices rich in vitamin C. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, fizzy drinks and other sugary concoctions as these aggravate the situation by irritating your blocked passageways and dehydrating your body. Keep off cigarettes as smoking naturally depresses your immune system and irritates the bronchial tubes, increasing your chances of developing other complications such as pneumonia. Keep warm at all times and get adequate rest. Take a warm shower as the steam is great for decongestion. Washing your hands is vital in preventing colds and other diseases, so do this consistently. Make it a habit too not to touch your face with your hands. Do not forget that it is courteous to cover your mouth with a handkerchief at all times, cold or not, but especially during this period. To minimise the spread at home, do not share utensils with a patient, air the rooms and keep your surroundings clean. Limit your contact with infected persons. A lifestyle change means overall good health. Increase your intake of healthy foods such as whole grains, foods high in vitamin C and especially green, yellow and red vegetables for all-year protection. Herbal teas such as green tea, peppermint and chamomile teas are a great addition to any diet.

cigarettes smoking naturally depresses your immune system and irritates the bronchial tubes, increasing your chances of developing other complications such as pneumonia.

Seek medical advice immediately if you experience symptoms that take longer than five days to desist. Other symptoms may include bloody coughs, chest pain, high fever and sore throat, especially in children.

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FATHER'S DAY
sPecial featUre

As we celebrate Father's Day this June, we visit Kidums life backstage and present the man behind the sensational music. Kidum the dad gives us a guileless account of what his family and children mean to him
Words: Paul Omondi

soulful crooner Jean Pierre Nimbona, who goes by the moniker Kidum, is not just a great musician with a heart-mellowing voice. No. he is not just a dexterous drummer and nimblefingered guitarist. No. he is not just a pre-eminent songster who has entranced the Great lakes region with his expressive musical brilliance. Not at all. stripped of his fame, the embellishments that come with celebrity status, arty genius, and stilled into the reality of daily existence; he is just like

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any married man with children. A father who dotes on his children. A parent who would sell his soul in a blink for the sake of his brood. A husband who has faced up to and come to grips with the terms of marital comity. he traipses the same prickly path of worrisome concern and adoring love many a parents walk. You can hardly miss the animated verve in his voice as he talks of his children. he is as oxymoronic as he is accomplished. For such a celebrated figure, he is surprisingly modest, with both his feet on the ground. The man, that master tickler Eric Omondi wittily derides as ki-Doom to denote an

economy pack of Doom, the insecticide; is actually anything but little. Kidum it turns out means a 20-litre jerry can and was what he was dubbed as a child to explain his big size at birth. My interview with him is brief, punctuated by shrilly calls that he calmly attends to. sorry, I have to take this. business, he tells me apologetically every time his phone rings as if hes actually seeking my permission. Oh, sure, no problem, is my repetitive response every time, as if it really makes a difference. And then there are the adoring fans who keep on butting into our conversation. Theres no avoiding this though, after all we are having a chat in the changing room of a gym in town. so, can we talk about your wife? I ask after he hangs up on one of his calls. What? Your wife Aah like really private stuff? he asks with a sly smile that belies his steely gaze. I can see the answer in his eyes. lets just say I have great respect for my wife and love her dearly, Of course thats a good sound-bite that you can easily sell to any woman. And your children? I have two Natalie and Naomi - with my wife and three others Afande, chrispin and Grace who I got before my marriage. he is as honest as they come and his professed undivided and equal love for all is five children is candid and sincere. hes slouched on the unassuming bench in a rather ordinary locker room of the gym. his workout has probably taken a toll on him and more than just a pound of flesh from his once-a-upon a time obtrusive paunch, which now barely bumps the outline of his Tshirt. his placid patience is bereft of the raunchy youthful swagger characteris-

I was born to sing and I would die singing

tic of most of the one-hit wonder artistes. To his credit are a slew of hit songs and four albums that are flying off the shelves of music stores. Whats with this obsession with love, it seems like all you ever sing about is romance? Actually it is my Kenyan fans who are fixated with love. It comes naturally to a stable and peaceful country. In Rwanda and burundi for instance I am more known for messages of hope, social justice and politics and I have released gospel numbers as well. later that evening I attend his gig at The legend. he makes fantastic rendition of bob Marleys and lionnel Richies mournful love lamentations. seated behind his drum set on a makeshift stage, tucked away next to the bar, he belts one number after another before easing into some of his great numbers. but this is not about his music. Its about him behind the scenes. The man behind the musician. The father. The husband. hes cagey and doesnt easily open up about his personal and family life. understandably. In broad strokes, he explains how, as a renowned musician and public figure, his marriage, good name and independence are naturally vulnerable, demanding extra caution to preserve.. Then how do you juggle family life and your career?

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sPecial featUre
Its tough. but I owe as much to my fans and my family. It is my battle field. like a soldier who leaves home to fight for his country, but still cares and loves his family, I leave my family for the sake of my fans, knowing at all time my loving family will always stand by me. but it is clearly a dizzying trapeze act to keep both career and family on an even keel. Its a mean reality the hustling for new gigs, bad food and stale air in performance joints, late night drives home after a performance takes longer than scheduled, days and even weeks of absence from home for shows out of town or the country, remote phone conversations with a wife who has stood by him and stepped up to hold the family together. Any regrets? Would you choose another path if given the chance? No. I was born to sing and I would die singing. Its hard not to imagine how incremental things might become, when the demands of showbiz can easily veer him off the larger family picture. Kidum however is clear that he didnt have any illusions on the effect this will have on his family. his hunger to please his fans and meet his family obligations is kept in check by his conscience that unrelentingly reminds him of his deepest commitments. I do all I can to be there for my family. I cant be perfect but I derive satisfaction in that I strive to be all I can for my children and my wife No tantrums from the missus, after all ladies will be throwing themselves at you now that you have hit the big time. Francine is my biggest fan and attends my shows whenever she can. As individuals we all have our flaws and none of us is an angel. but it all boils down to trust and commitment to the family and marriage. I dont know how I would hold together the family without my wife. shes the bedrock of the family. his best moment is frolicking and playing with the children at home. They like clambering all over me and playing games, he says and then adds wistfully: The greatest blessing you can ever ask for is a loving family. My children characterise me. They give me a purpose. but the loving dad is a tough task master as well and discipline is not dispensed with. I strongly believe that my children should be brought up as respectable and well disciplined individuals. It is important even to them in later life and they know that daddy will not tolerate unbecoming behavior. Kidum may be inspired by other musicians on the African continent, but it is his family that ultimately distinguishes him as a man. THE FAMILy GUy: Kidum married Francine Nduwunukama in 2000 at the age of 26. Together they have two children Natalie (8) and Naomi (5). BEST LISTEN: he loves listening to Youssou NDour, the renowned senegalese musician and percussionist; Papa Wemba, the congolese soukous maestro; and Kenyas sauti sol. BUSy DAy: Kidum gets up at around 8am every morning, which is pretty early if you spend most of your nights performing. A typical day is marked by a trip to the gym, meeting clients, practicing with his boda boda band, recording and working on drums and guitar later at home.

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At Valentine Cake House you get the best Blackforest in town in just 3 hours. Freshly done and we also deliver.
We also have White Forest, Amarula Blackforest, Blueberry Forest, Passion Cake, Angry with You Forest, Lets Make Up Forest & Crazy Bridal Shower Forest.

Contact us for wedding cakes and any other cake of your dream.
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MEDICAL CENTRES
KENyA cENTRE
GEORGE WILLIAMSON SARIT CENTRE CITy CENTRE THIKA ROAD MOMBASA KISUMU NAKURU KABARAK ELDORET

To serve you better, our network of clinics are strategically distributed for your convenience
cONTAcT DETAIls
Email: imugambi@aar.co.ke Tel: 2895054/2895053 Email: priya@aar.co.ke Tel: 4446202/08/01 Email: aokudo@aar.co.ke Tel:318924/318931 Email: mwaka@aar.co.ke Tel: 2028051 Email: dkiema@aar.co.ke Tel: 041 2229045/041 230035/6 Email; vhongo@aar.co.ke Tel: 057 2024892 Email: cmulwa@aar.co.ke Tel: 051 2216739/051 2215599 Email: akiplagat@aar.co.ke Tel: 2439010 Email: wobita@aar.co.ke Tel: 053 2060811/ 0732 979 785 24 hours

www.aarhealth.com

lOcATION
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OPENING hOuRs
Mon - Fri 8am - 7pm, saturday 8am - 4pm sundays and public holidays - 10am - 2pm Mon - Fri 8am -8pm, saturday - 8am - 6pm sunday - 9am - 5pm, public holidays - 9am - 5pm Mon - Fri 8am - 6pm, saturday 8am - 4pm sunday 10am - 4pm, public holidays - closed Mon - Fri 8am 6.30pm, sat - 8am 5 pm, sundays and public holidays - 9am 4pm Mon - Fri 8am - 7pm, sat 9am - 6pm, sundays and public holidays - closed Mon - sun 8am 8pm, Public holidays 8am - 8pm 24 hours Mon Fri 8am 6.00pm, sat 8.am 2pm sundays and public holidays - closed

UGANDA cENTRE
ACACIA CLINIC BUGOLOBI CLINIC BUSINESS CENTRE (BCC) CITy CENTRE GULU

lOcATION
Plot 6, Makindu close off Windsor crescent, Kololo AAR bugolobi clinic, 5th street Industrial Area Nakivubo Road Parliament plaza, 2nd floor, Parliament avenue, opposite Mateos Plot 10, Queens Avenue( next to Post bank Gulu)

cONTAcT DETAIls
Email: hkinene@aar.co.ug Tel: 0716 155513/0794555510 Email: mkatafire@aar.co.ug Tel: 0716 259407/0794 259407 Email: slugolobi@aar.co.ug Tel:0716236217/0794236217 Email: mmutero@aar.co.ug Tel: 2028051 Email: alawino@aar.co.ug Tel: 0716247352/0792247352

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TANzANIA cENTRE
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lOcATION
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cONTAcT DETAIls
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IMPORTANT CONTACTS Do you have an emergency? Need help? Contact us now on the numbers below: KENYA
NAIROBI: MOMBASA: HELP DESK (254 20) 2717374/5/6 0725 225 225, 0734 225 225 (254 041) 2230036/ 2312405 +254 202895000

uGANDA
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