Rapper A$AP Rocky was found not guilty of shooting at his former friend,
Rapper A$AP Rocky, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, has been acquitted of charges alleging he shot his former friend, Terell “A$AP Relli” Ephron, during a 2021 incident in Hollywood. The Los Angeles jury delivered a unanimous not guilty verdict on February 18, 2025, after approximately three hours of deliberation, concluding a three-week trial
The charges stemmed from a November 6, 2021, confrontation in which Ephron accused Mayers of firing a semi-automatic firearm at him. Mayers faced two felony counts of assault with a semi-automatic firearm, carrying a potential sentence of up to 24 years in prison.
Throughout the trial, Mayers maintained his innocence, asserting that he had used a prop gun that fired blanks during the altercation. His defense highlighted the absence of physical evidence, such as shell casings or the firearm itself, to support the prosecution’s claims. Witnesses, including fellow A$AP Mob members A$AP Twelvyy and A$AP Lou, corroborated Mayers’ account, though the prosecution suggested their testimonies were influenced.Upon hearing the verdict, an emotional Mayers expressed gratitude to the jury, stating, “Thank y’all for saving my life.” He then embraced his partner, Rihanna, who was present throughout the trial and visibly tearful during the proceedings.
The acquittal allows Mayers to resume his personal and professional life, including upcoming commitments in the music and fashion industries. The Los Angeles District Attorney’s office acknowledged the jury’s decision, reaffirming their commitment to pursuing justice in all cases.
MTV Shuga Returns as MTV Shuga Mashariki with a Stellar Cast
The highly anticipated return of MTV Shuga is finally here, with the new season titled “MTV Shuga Mashariki.” This revival aims to capture the vibrant essence of East Africa, blending impactful storytelling with pressing social issues.
The cast for MTV Shuga Mashariki includes a dynamic mix of familiar faces and rising stars. Leading the lineup are actors Nick Mutuma, who reprises his role as Leo, and Tanzanian actress Nshuti Charlotte, known for her breakout performances. Joining them are Kenyan actress Mbeki Mwalimu and Rwandan actor Pacifique Niyitegeka, both of whom are expected to bring fresh energy and talent to the series.
Fans can also look forward to appearances by singer-songwriter Vanessa Mdee, adding her star power to the show’s already impressive cast. The series will tackle issues such as HIV awareness, gender equality, mental health, and relationships, all framed within East Africa’s rich cultural context.
MTV Shuga Mashariki promises to continue the legacy of its predecessors by using entertainment to spark conversations and promote positive social change. With its talented cast and relevant themes, this season is expected to resonate with audiences across the region and beyond.
Stay tuned for more updates on MTV Shuga Mashariki as the show gears up to make its mark on East African television once again!
Size 8 and DJ Mo Tie the Knot in an Intimate Sigona Wedding
Kenyan gospel power couple Size 8 and DJ Mo recently exchanged vows in an intimate wedding ceremony held in Sigona. The event, which was kept under wraps until the big day, was attended by close family members and a few close friends.
The venue, nestled in the lush greenery of Sigona, provided a picturesque backdrop for the couple’s special day. The decor featured a minimalist yet elegant theme, with white floral arrangements and touches of gold, perfectly complementing the couple’s radiant smiles. Size 8, whose real name is Linet Munyali, donned a stunning white gown that exuded simplicity and grace. DJ Mo, known for his prowess in the gospel music industry, looked dapper in a tailored suit.
The ceremony was presided over by a close family pastor who led the couple through heartfelt vows. Attendees described the moment as deeply emotional, with Size 8 shedding a few tears of joy as she declared her love for DJ Mo. The two have been married in a civil ceremony for nearly a decade but chose this moment to have a more traditional and spiritual wedding.
Speaking after the ceremony, the couple expressed gratitude to their family and supporters. “We wanted something small and meaningful, just for the people who have walked with us through our journey,” Size 8 shared. DJ Mo added, “It’s been an incredible journey with Size 8. This is a celebration of God’s faithfulness in our lives.”
Fans and fellow celebrities flooded social media with congratulatory messages as soon as the news broke. The couple’s journey has been a public one, marked by ups and downs, but they have consistently leaned on their faith and each other to overcome life’s challenges.
The wedding comes at a time when Size 8 and DJ Mo have become symbols of resilience and commitment in Kenya’s entertainment and gospel circles. Their renewed vows serve as a testament to their enduring love and shared faith.
As the couple begins this new chapter, fans eagerly anticipate the next milestones in their journey. Congratulations to Size 8 and DJ Mo on their beautiful union!
Retro Rewind: A Night of 70s, 80s & 90s Music at Paradise Gardens
Get ready to dust off your dancing shoes and tune your DeLorean, because “Retro Rewind” is coming to Paradise Gardens off Kiambu Road on March 29th, 2025! This highly anticipated event promises a night of nostalgia, vibrant energy, and a celebration of the best decades in music, fashion, and culture.
Paradise Gardens, with its lush landscape and inviting ambiance, provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable throwback experience. Imagine strolling through the venue, transported to a bygone era, surrounded by carefully curated decorations, lighting, and soundscapes.
Here’s what you can expect at Retro Rewind:
* **Groovy Tunes:** Prepare to be transported by a curated playlist of iconic hits from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Top DJs will spin classics that’ll have you singing along and hitting the dance floor all night long. Get ready for those anthems that shaped generations!
* **Dress Code:** Embrace the theme! Whether you’re channeling your inner disco diva, a rebellious rocker, or a hip-hop head, come dressed in your best retro attire. Prizes will be awarded for the best costumes, so let your creativity flow.
* **Delicious Bites & Drinks:** Keep your energy levels up with a selection of food and beverages that complement the retro vibe. From classic cocktails and themed snacks, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
* **Interactive Experiences:** Retro Rewind will offer more than just music and dancing. Expect interactive elements, photo booths with vintage props, and possibly even classic arcade games to enhance the immersive experience.
Retro Rewind on March 29th, 2025, promises a night of pure fun, laughter, and the chance to relive some of the most iconic moments in history. Stay tuned for ticket information, event updates, and more exciting details as we get closer to the date. Don’t miss your chance to rewind the clock and experience an unforgettable journey back in time at Paradise Gardens!
Family Feud: Hamisa Mobetto’s Mother-In-Law Rejects Son’s Wedding
In a surprising turn of events, Tanzanian socialite Hamisa Mobetto’s recent marriage to Yanga SC footballer Stephanie Aziz Ki has been met with disapproval from her new mother-in-law, Sanata Ki. Despite the couple’s lavish traditional wedding and Nikkah ceremony held on February 16, 2025, at Nnuur Mosque in Mbweni, Dar es Salaam, Sanata Ki has publicly expressed her dissatisfaction with the union.
Sources reveal that Sanata Ki disapproves of her son’s choice, leading to tensions within the family. This familial discord casts a shadow over the couple’s celebrations, which included the payment of an impressive dowry of Tsh555 million (approximately Ksh27 million), comprising 150 cows and additional monetary gifts.
Despite the familial challenges, Hamisa and Aziz have showcased a united front, sharing moments of joy and bonding with their children during the wedding festivities. The couple has also announced plans for a white wedding ceremony scheduled for February 19, 2025.
The public rift highlights the complexities that can arise in blending families and the impact of parental approval on marital unions. As Hamisa and Aziz embark on their new journey together, they face the challenge of navigating familial expectations and societal pressures.
For a closer look at the emotional moments from their wedding and insights into the family dynamics, watch the video below:
Kenyan Comedian Mulamwah Proposes to Ruth K After Four Years Together
Kenyan comedian and digital creator David Oyando, popularly known as Mulamwah, has proposed to his longtime partner, Ruth K, after four years together. The couple, who welcomed their son on February 10, 2024, have shared their journey publicly, capturing the hearts of many fans.
Ruth K announced the engagement on February 17, 2025, by sharing photos of her engagement ring on social media, captioned, “Yes it is ❤️.” The post garnered numerous congratulatory messages from fans and fellow celebrities alike.
Mulamwah and Ruth K’s relationship began in 2021, following his separation from his previous partner, Carol Sonnie. In October 2023, the couple held an introduction ceremony to bond with their respective families. Their engagement marks a significant milestone in their journey together, as they continue to share their love story with their audience.
Fans and well-wishers have flooded social media with messages of support and excitement for the couple’s future. As they embark on this new chapter, Mulamwah and Ruth K remain grateful for the overwhelming love and encouragement from their supporters.
For more details, you can watch the announcement video below:
Raila Odinga Loses AUC Chair Bid to Djibouti’s Mahmoud Youssouf in Tight Race
In a closely contested election during the African Union (AU) summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, was elected as the new Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), defeating Kenya’s former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, and Madagascar’s ex-Foreign Minister, Richard Randriamandrato.
The election, held on February 15, 2025, saw Youssouf secure the position after multiple voting rounds. Odinga was eliminated in the sixth round, trailing behind Youssouf in the preceding rounds.
Odinga, 80, a prominent figure in Kenyan politics with a career spanning over three decades, had aimed to crown his public service by leading the AUC. His campaign faced challenges, including shifting allegiances among member states and Kenya’s diplomatic strategies.
Youssouf, who has served as Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister since 2005, will assume a four-year term, succeeding Moussa Faki of Chad. His leadership comes at a time when the AU faces pressing issues, such as military coups in West Africa and ongoing conflicts in regions like eastern Congo.
This development highlights the intricate dynamics of African diplomacy and the challenges nations face in securing leadership positions within continental organizations.
For more insights into Raila Odinga’s response to the election outcome, watch the following video:
Nairobi Fashion Week 2025: A Bold Step Toward Sustainable and Regenerative African Fashion
Nairobi Fashion Week 2025, held on February 1st, showcased a significant shift towards sustainability, featuring innovative designs crafted from recycled and repurposed materials by various African designers. The event highlighted the environmental and ethical concerns surrounding the fashion industry in Africa.
Kenyan brand Maisha by Nisria presented handmade designs using textiles sourced from flea markets, wholesalers, recycling factories, and landfills, embodying a zero-waste philosophy. Their Afropia collection included pieces like a cropped high-collar jacket and boxy miniskirt made from repurposed curtains.
Rwandan designer Jean Maurice Niyigena’s streetwear label, Bone Koboyi, focused on cultural heritage and sustainability, using recycled materials for his collection. His Exodus collection featured exaggerated silhouettes and hand-painting inspired by traditional textile art, reflecting a balance between innovation and cultural preservation.
Cameroonian designer Sikoti Mbaitjongue, founder of Sokolata, showcased playful cotton pastel designs. She highlighted challenges in sourcing raw cotton, emphasizing the need for local textile industry support to make sustainable fashion more accessible.
The event also featured brands like LaOculta, a womenswear brand rooted in both Kenya and Colombia, and jewellery and accessories brand Apar Gadek, known for distinctive pieces made from materials like brass, recycled glass beads, and upcycled cow horn and bone.
Nairobi Fashion Week 2025 concluded with a powerful statement on the future of fashion, spotlighting Africa’s vibrant design talent and the growing importance of regenerative fashion practices. The event celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Africa through diverse collections that pushed boundaries while honoring traditional craftsmanship.
The event served as a platform for crucial discussions on textile circularity, recycling, and the impact of both national and global policies on the future of the textile industry in Kenya and beyond. Stakeholders highlighted the importance of collaboration between governments, industry leaders, and environmental organizations to create policies that support sustainable fashion and encourage responsible production practices.
Overall, Nairobi Fashion Week 2025 highlighted the growing movement in Africa toward fashion that is not only stylish but also mindful of its environmental impact. The event showcased the incredible work of African designers who are redefining fashion through sustainability and innovation.
South African Amapiano DJ Vigro Deep to Light Up MadfunXperience in Nairobi
South African Amapiano sensation Vigro Deep is set to captivate audiences at the upcoming MadfunXperience concert on March 1, 2025, at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi. He will share the stage with Nigerian superstar Burna Boy and Kenyan Afro-pop artist Charisma, promising an unforgettable musical experience.
Vigro Deep, renowned for his innovative contributions to the Amapiano genre, has been instrumental in its global rise. His unique sound blends deep house elements with jazz and lounge music, creating tracks that resonate with audiences worldwide. His performance at MadfunXperience underscores the growing influence of Amapiano in East Africa, as the genre continues to dominate clubs and airwaves across the region.
Fans can anticipate a dynamic set featuring Vigro Deep’s signature tracks and electrifying beats. His previous performances, such as the live DJ set at AfroNation Portugal 2024, have been lauded for their energy and musicality.
Tickets for MadfunXperience are available through official channels. Given the star-studded lineup and high anticipation, early purchase is recommended to secure attendance at this landmark event.
For a glimpse of what to expect, check out Vigro Deep’s live DJ set from AfroNation Portugal 2024:
Kenyan Star Charisma Set to Share the Stage with Burna Boy at MadfunXperience
Kenyan Afro-pop sensation Charisma is set to achieve a significant milestone in his musical career by sharing the stage with Grammy award-winning Nigerian artist Burna Boy at the highly anticipated MadfunXperience concert. The event is scheduled for March 1, 2025, at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi.
Expressing his excitement, Charisma remarked, “It’s a huge honour and a massive moment for me. I once mentioned in a podcast that Burna Boy is my favourite artist, and I would love to work with him. Now, I get to share a stage with him. If a collaboration opportunity comes up, we’re more than ready.”
The MadfunXperience aims to elevate Kenya’s global entertainment profile, featuring performances by Charisma, Burna Boy, South African Amapiano maestro Virgo Deep, and a lineup of celebrated DJs. The event is expected to draw thousands of music enthusiasts from across Africa and beyond.
Madfun’s Managing Director, Joy Wachira, emphasized the event’s significance, stating, “It is time to raise the bar and shape Africa’s music culture. We are here to prove that Kenya has the capacity to host international events that rival the best in the world.”
This performance marks Burna Boy’s return to Kenya since his last appearance in 2019, adding to the anticipation surrounding the concert. Tickets for the MadfunXperience are available at Madfun.com, with fans encouraged to secure their spots early for what promises to be an electrifying night of music and culture.
For more insights into Charisma’s journey and his thoughts on sharing the stage with Burna Boy, you can watch this interview: