We reach the end of another year and despite the continuing Covid disruptions it has not been unsuccessful for the D&S Group with satisfactory revenue growth and qualitative progress in a number of areas.

Particularly I mention operationalization of the Tatu Distribution Centre, which is now making a big contribution to Group efficiency, integration of a new IT system, and new branches opened in Wote, Nyahururu & Gikomba. We also regretfully saw the departure of senior executives Dr MAS Waweru and Lena Sumuni, both of whom had exceptional careers with D&S, that resulted in the reorganization of executive responsibilities including the appointment of Edward Davis as MD D&S Kenya, David Bolo as GM Industrial Area and the recruitment of David Gacheru as the new HR Executive. All are now settled and doing well.

This year again Christmas celebrations were muted, though a successful virtual event was held with over 800 people attending which offered the benefit of enabling the key Chairman and CEO speeches being heard across the Group. There were also several entertaining video performances by various staff members and presentation of the Business Unit awards. In a Group as widespread as D&S now with over 80 branches in nine countries and over 1000 staff there are many departments that have made substantial contributions and choosing winners is difficult. Particularly I mention the Coast cluster, D&S Zimbabwe, D&S Rwanda and the Supply team as having made excellent progress this year, though of particular note were Engineering under Philip Holi and the new the Industrial Area Branch under David Bolo who were chosen as the

Commended Business Unit winners. The thoroughly deserved winner was D&S Zambia under MD Jonathan Mainga who have had an exceptional year in so many ways. I'm most grateful to them all.

Another success I would like to mention is the CSR activities coordinated by Nur Riday. This year we, together with several partners, have executed 143 projects that have benefited over 200,000 people. This demonstrates our purpose of contributing to the wider community where our products really do improve people's lives and expanding this activity is a Group priority.

Looking ahead 2022 will be another busy year with several important initiatives planned that include new products and further branch network expansion. A key priority is a major redevelopment of the Dundori Road Head Office that has already started with the construction of a new Service Centre and Warehousing facility. An important prospect will be the retirement of long serving CEO David Gatende and succession plans are being made to ensure a smooth transition that will involve other management changes. These will be announced in good time.

To conclude I offer everyone my warmest Season's Greetings and take this opportunity to express my deep appreciation to all D&S stakeholders including customers, suppliers and of course staff for your great support over the past year as without you we would be unable to achieve what we do. I also pass everyone my best wishes for a healthy, successful and hopefully more settled 2022.