We live in difficult times with Covid still a big issue in the country that is causing considerable disruption and suffering to many.
Though there are good prospects of a return to new normality with the vaccine rollout, which we are strongly encouraging our staff to have, the ramifications of the ongoing pandemic continue to be felt in many areas. This is particularly so within the world supply chain caused by Covid restrictions, material shortages and price increases and now disruption to the world shipping and logistics networks.

This latter situation is affecting the entire world leading to the concerning prospect of product shortages and price increases, D&S being impacted like all other trading organizations. We are managing as best as we can though regretfully it is unlikely that the situation will start to improve until next year and customers must therefore understand if they experience supply delays that are quite beyond our control.
On a more positive note, D&S continues to expand its branch network and this year has already opened new branches in Kenya in Isiolo and Kericho and is presently working on additional locations in Gikomba in Nairobi, Wote in Ukambani and Nyahururu in Laikipia. We will soon have over 70 branches in the region with over 40 in Kenya that are all doing well and are proud of the fact that we are bringing our products and expertise closer to the customer who is benefiting from their applications and the resulting way they improve lives. I must particularly commend the Branch managing Executive Margaret Kuchio and her assistant Titus Njenga who have done excellent work in establishing the operational routines as well as the Tatu supply team who ensure the system works through regular product deliveries. This successful strategy will continue to be rolled out both in Kenya and in the regional countries.
 D&S and its staff are fortunate in many ways and there is a strong common desire to give back, especially as all D&S products improve lives by the nature of their use. Focusing on providing water and energy solutions to deprived communities, CSR has been an important policy for many years and the initiative has recently been enhanced by D&S Kenya MD Edward Davis and CSR coordinator Nur Riday with many projects undertaken. These are summarised in the latest 'Improving Lives' Report, which makes inspiring reading, and I must congratulate all involved including many staff who freely give their spare time. D&S strongly believes in the Purpose before Profit philosophy and I am proud of the contribution we are able to make.