As the world reflects on the recent passing of Pope Francis, interest in the inner workings of the Vatican has surged — and with it, so has global fascination with the film Conclave, the Oscar-winning 2024 drama that offers a gripping portrayal of the papal election process.
Directed by Edward Berger and starring Ralph Fiennes, Conclave is based on Robert Harris’s acclaimed 2016 novel. The film takes audiences behind the closed doors of the Vatican following the death of a pope, dramatizing the secretive and sacred ritual in which cardinals from around the world elect a new spiritual leader for the Catholic Church.
At the heart of the film is Cardinal Thomas Lawrence (played by Fiennes), who finds himself entangled in a web of political maneuvering and deep-seated secrets as the conclave unfolds. The plot takes a dramatic turn when a previously unknown cardinal, Vincent Benítez, emerges as a surprise candidate. Following a terrorist attack that shakes the Sistine Chapel, Benítez’s message of peace and unity resonates strongly with the cardinals, ultimately leading to his election as Pope Innocent.
In a poignant and unexpected twist, the newly elected pope confides in Cardinal Lawrence that he is intersex, a revelation that had been known and accepted by the late pontiff. The moment underscores the film’s broader themes of identity, acceptance, and the evolving nature of spiritual leadership.
Though fictional, Conclave draws heavily on the real-world traditions and dynamics of the Catholic Church. Its release proved timely, as it coincided with growing speculation about Vatican succession plans. According to The Guardian, viewership of the film spiked by 283% on the day Pope Francis passed away — a reflection of the public’s heightened interest in the behind-the-scenes reality of papal elections.
Critics have praised Conclave for its atmospheric storytelling and powerful performances, with some Vatican insiders noting that while the political scheming is amplified for dramatic effect, the film captures the essence of the spiritual weight carried by the conclave process. As Reuters reported, while the real Vatican prepares for an actual conclave, Conclave has become a cultural lens through which many are understanding — or reimagining — the mystery of this ancient tradition.
Conclave is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video and available in Blu-ray and 4K formats.
Nairobi — The Thamani Awards 2025 nominations are out, and two of Kenya’s most beloved radio stations — Classic 105 and Radio Jambo — have secured spots among the top contenders, reaffirming their influence and popularity in the region’s media landscape.
The Thamani Awards, which celebrate excellence in East African entertainment, media, and culture, are known for recognizing impactful voices that shape public discourse and drive entertainment trends. This year, both Classic 105 and Radio Jambo have been nominated in multiple categories, highlighting their broad appeal and strong listener engagement.
Classic 105, known for its nostalgic playlist and interactive morning shows led by Maina Kageni, has been nominated for:
Radio Station of the Year
Best Morning Show
Personality of the Year (Maina Kageni)
Meanwhile, Radio Jambo, with its powerful mix of sports, current affairs, and vibrant Swahili talk shows, received nods for:
Best Talk Radio Station
Best Sports Coverage
Best Swahili Radio Program
The nominations have sparked excitement among fans, with many taking to social media to express their support and encourage others to vote. The friendly rivalry between the two stations is expected to drive even more attention to the awards this year.
Voting is set to begin later this month, with the awards ceremony scheduled for July 2025 in Nairobi. Industry insiders are already predicting a highly competitive event, as both stations bring a loyal following and a proven track record of excellence.
Stay tuned — the battle for the crown in Kenyan radio is officially on.
Dar es Salaam — The swirling rumors surrounding Tanzanian music icon Diamond Platnumz and fellow artist Zuchu may finally be put to rest, as the singer now claims he is preparing to marry her soon — a statement further fueled by bold remarks from longtime friend and Bongo Flava artist Baba Levo.
In a recent public appearance, Diamond made it clear that his relationship with Zuchu is headed toward something more serious. “Zuchu is my wife-to-be,” he said, adding that their bond has deepened over time and marriage is now on the horizon.
Adding fire to the buzz, Baba Levo made headlines with a strong declaration backing the union — and throwing subtle shade in the process.
“Diamond hawezi oa Nigeria. Diamond ata oa Zuchu na tumeshakubaliana, ndoa yake Diamond tushakubaliana. Ngamia tushaanza kutafuta na zitachinjwa ngamia za kutosha. Arusi ya Jux kwa ile ya Diamond itakuwa kama birthday party na mimi nawaambia ukweli,” he claimed.
(Translation: Diamond can’t marry a Nigerian. He will marry Zuchu — we’ve already agreed. The wedding has already been agreed upon. Camels are already being sourced, and enough will be slaughtered. Compared to Diamond’s wedding, Jux’s will look like a birthday party — I’m telling you the truth.)
This bold statement has stirred conversations online, not only about Diamond’s love life but also about the scale of the celebration to come. Baba Levo’s colorful comparison to fellow artist Jux’s wedding implies that Diamond and Zuchu’s nuptials will be a grand, possibly unprecedented affair in East African celebrity culture.
Neither Diamond nor Zuchu has officially confirmed the wedding date, but insiders suggest that preparations are well underway — with sources even hinting at a traditional Swahili ceremony and possibly a luxurious destination celebration.
Fans across the region are watching closely, waiting to see whether this long-speculated couple will finally tie the knot. One thing is certain: if Baba Levo’s claims are anything to go by, this won’t be just a wedding — it’ll be a royal event in Bongo Flava history.
Beijing, China – April 23, 2025 — Kenya has clinched a significant economic win following the signing of a Ksh.126 billion investment agreement with China, marking a major step in deepening bilateral relations between the two countries. The deal was finalized during President William Ruto’s state visit to Beijing, where he led a high-level delegation of government and business leaders.
The multibillion-shilling package includes a series of infrastructure, energy, and industrial development projects aimed at accelerating Kenya’s economic transformation and job creation efforts.
💼 Key Areas of Investment
The agreement covers:
Transport and Infrastructure: Upgrades to key road networks and railway systems to improve logistics and trade within Kenya and across the East African region.
Energy Projects: Expansion of Kenya’s renewable energy capacity, with investments in solar and wind energy expected to boost access to sustainable power.
Manufacturing and Industrial Parks: Support for local industries, including special economic zones that will attract foreign and domestic investors.
Digital Economy Initiatives: Collaborative projects on fintech, digital infrastructure, and e-governance, as Kenya continues its transition to a more digitized economy.
🇰🇪 A Boost for Kenya’s Development Agenda
President Ruto hailed the agreement as a “milestone in Kenya’s economic journey,” emphasizing its alignment with his administration’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). He reiterated his commitment to partnerships that offer tangible benefits to Kenyans, particularly in terms of employment, technology transfer, and inclusive growth.
“This investment will not only expand our infrastructure and manufacturing capacity but will also empower our people by creating new jobs and opening up markets,” said Ruto during the signing ceremony.
🇨🇳 Strengthening Ties with China
China continues to be one of Kenya’s top trading and development partners. This latest deal signals ongoing confidence in Kenya’s stability, economic vision, and regional leadership. It also reflects China’s growing footprint across Africa as part of its broader Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
🌍 What This Means for the Region
With Kenya strategically positioned as a regional hub, the investment is expected to enhance East Africa’s integration, trade efficiency, and infrastructure resilience. It could also inspire other countries in the region to pursue similar cooperative frameworks with global partners.
Kenya’s fast-rising vocal powerhouse Teslah has just dropped a fresh, vibey track titled Smokie Pasua — and she’s brought none other than soulful hitmaker Bensoul along for the ride. This new jam is already turning heads and making waves, blending street culture with smooth vocals and a dose of playful attitude.
🔥 What’s the Vibe?
Smokie Pasua is as delicious as the name suggests — inspired by Kenya’s beloved street snack, it’s a metaphorical and literal ode to flavor, hustle, and chemistry. Teslah brings her signature sultry energy, while Bensoul (of Sol Generation fame) delivers a melodic twist that only he can.
Together, they cook up a track that’s part street anthem, part flirtatious duet, and 100% a vibe.
🎤 Who Are They?
Teslah is one of the breakout stars to watch in Kenya’s music scene. With a powerful voice and a bold style, she’s been carving her space in Afropop and R&B, dropping hits and visuals that speak to the modern Kenyan experience.
Bensoul is a celebrated singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for hits like Lucy, Nairobi (with Sauti Sol), and Favourite Song. Signed under Sol Generation, his unique sound blends reggae, soul, and Afro-fusion — and fans know that when Bensoul’s on the track, it’s a guaranteed groove.
📺 Watch It Now!
The Smokie Pasua music video is already up on YouTube, and it’s a must-watch! Think bold colors, street style, smoky vibes (literally), and top-tier Kenyan creativity. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just vibing for the first time, this one deserves a spot on your playlist.
Nairobi, Kenya – April 23, 2025 — Tensions between Kenya and Sudan have flared following a formal diplomatic protest lodged by the Sudanese government, accusing Kenyan President William Ruto of interfering in Sudan’s internal affairs. The letter, confirmed by Kenya’s Parliament on Tuesday, has raised regional concerns over sovereignty, mediation roles, and the fragile dynamics of East African diplomacy.
The Allegations
According to reports from Nairobi and Khartoum, the Sudanese government expressed strong disapproval of what it describes as “unwarranted and biased involvement” by President Ruto in Sudan’s ongoing internal conflict. The exact contents of the letter have not been made public, but sources within Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Committee say the protest centers on statements and actions taken by Ruto regarding Sudan’s peace process.
President Ruto has been vocal about the need for regional stability and has in the past expressed support for African-led solutions to conflicts like the civil unrest in Sudan. However, Sudanese authorities appear to interpret his recent involvement as partial and overreaching.
Kenya’s Response
Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledged the receipt of the protest but maintained that President Ruto’s actions have been guided by Kenya’s long-standing commitment to regional peace and stability.
“Kenya’s role in Sudan is consistent with our regional obligations under the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the African Union,” a ministry spokesperson said. “We will continue to support peaceful dialogue in good faith.”
The issue is now before the Parliamentary Committee on Defence and Foreign Relations, which is expected to issue a formal response in the coming days.
Regional Implications
The diplomatic spat comes at a sensitive time for East Africa, where multiple nations are grappling with conflict, political transitions, and economic instability. Kenya has often positioned itself as a mediator in regional disputes, leveraging its relative stability and diplomatic reach.
Observers worry that Sudan’s strong reaction could jeopardize ongoing peace efforts in the region and complicate Kenya’s role as a neutral facilitator. It may also affect bilateral projects and trade relations between the two countries.
Sudan’s Internal Crisis
Sudan has been mired in internal conflict since the breakdown of a fragile power-sharing arrangement between military and civilian leaders in 2023. Attempts at negotiation have repeatedly faltered, with various factions accusing external actors of bias.
While President Ruto has advocated for African-led mediation efforts, Sudanese authorities now question Kenya’s impartiality—especially amid reports that Kenyan officials have met with opposition leaders and civil society groups linked to the resistance movement in Sudan.
What’s Next?
Diplomatic channels remain open, and both governments have signaled a willingness to avoid escalation. Analysts suggest that mediation by IGAD or the African Union may be needed to resolve the rift and refocus efforts on Sudan’s internal peace process.
For Kenya, this presents a test of its balancing act as both a regional leader and a neutral peace broker in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
Beijing, China – April 23, 2025 — During a high-profile state visit to China, Kenyan President William Ruto delivered a bold and visionary appeal for a new world order, one that elevates the voices and interests of nations in the Global South. His remarks have sparked fresh debate on the future of global governance, economic equity, and geopolitical alignment.
Standing before Chinese leaders and international dignitaries, President Ruto urged for the restructuring of global financial and security systems, arguing that existing institutions no longer reflect the realities of an interconnected, multipolar world. He called on global powers to acknowledge and incorporate the perspectives of developing nations—particularly those across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
“The current global architecture was built for a world that no longer exists,” Ruto said. “We must reconstruct a system that is fair, inclusive, and responsive to the aspirations of the Global South.”
FILE PHOTO: Kenya’s President William Ruto speaks at a press conference after police officers shot protesters demonstrating against Kenya’s proposed finance bill 2024/2025 in Nairobi, Kenya, June 25, 2024. REUTERS/Monicah Mwangi/File Photo
Reforming the Global Financial Order
At the heart of Ruto’s address was a demand for sweeping reforms to financial institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. He criticized their governance structures as outdated and skewed toward the interests of the developed world.
Ruto proposed a model where African and other developing nations would have greater influence over funding decisions, credit terms, and development priorities. The current lending frameworks, he argued, often burden poor countries with unsustainable debt and little autonomy.
A New Security Framework
Beyond economics, Ruto called for a reimagining of international security structures. He pointed to the United Nations Security Council as emblematic of an era in need of change—an institution whose permanent membership has not evolved in decades despite major geopolitical shifts.
“Africa, home to 1.4 billion people and rising regional powers, cannot continue to be a spectator in decisions that affect global peace and stability,” Ruto stated.
Embracing South-South Solidarity
Ruto’s speech also highlighted the growing importance of South-South cooperation—strategic partnerships between developing countries. He encouraged Global South nations to deepen collaboration through trade, technology transfer, and mutual investment.
His visit culminated in the signing of multiple agreements with China, totaling over KSh 126 billion in new investments. These include infrastructure development, manufacturing, and green energy projects across Kenya.
A Diplomatic Pivot
President Ruto’s remarks signal a continued pivot in Kenya’s foreign policy—balancing traditional Western alliances with emerging partnerships across Asia and Latin America. Analysts see this as a move toward greater self-determination and a rejection of dependency models that have long defined Africa’s role on the world stage.
What’s Next?
Ruto’s call may mark a turning point in how developing nations engage with global power centers. As countries across the Global South rally around similar sentiments, the pressure on international institutions to evolve may intensify.
For Kenya, it reinforces the country’s position as a diplomatic leader in Africa and a growing force in shaping the global agenda.
Emerging Afrobeat sensation Emilian Starz has just released the official music video for his latest track, “Available”, under the Black Market Afrika label. Within just one day, the video has garnered an impressive 15,000 views, signaling a strong start for the artist’s new release.
The music video showcases Emilian Starz’s unique blend of Afrobeat rhythms and contemporary visuals, capturing the essence of his dynamic musical style. Fans have quickly embraced the track, with many praising its catchy beats and engaging visuals.
The song “Available” is expected to make waves on various music charts and playlists, further establishing Emilian Starz as a rising star in the Afrobeat genre.
If you haven’t watched “Jaloux | Official Lyrical Animation” by SMS Officiel, you’re seriously missing out on one of the most heartfelt and visually creative music experiences online right now.
Whether you’re already a fan of the original hit “Jaloux” by sms, or just discovering it for the first time, this lyrical animation brings a fresh and emotionally charged dimension to the song. Set against a smooth blend of R&B and Afro-urban rhythms, the video turns each lyric into a visual journey—combining stunning animation with the raw vulnerability of love, jealousy, and passion.
🎥 Why You Should Watch:
Emotionally Resonant: “Jaloux” explores that all-too-familiar feeling of being possessively in love. The animation captures this theme with relatable visuals that echo the message in every line.
Creative Visuals: From stylized character animations to beautifully synchronized lyric transitions, every frame feels purposeful and poetic.
Universal Message: Love, insecurity, longing—this video speaks a language we all understand.
This isn’t just a lyric video. It’s a mini short film, a story told through rhythm, art, and emotion. It offers a new lens into the feelings behind the lyrics—something fans of the song (and of storytelling in general) will appreciate deeply.
So if you’re scrolling through YouTube looking for something meaningful and visually unique, click the link, turn up the volume, and give “Jaloux | Official Lyrical Animation” a watch. Trust us—you’ll hit replay.
In one of the most unusual wildlife trafficking cases in recent memory, two Belgian teenagers, a Vietnamese national, and a Kenyan accomplice have pleaded guilty to smuggling over 5,000 live queen ants through Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The operation was intercepted by customs officials and wildlife enforcement agents, who discovered the insects packed inside more than 2,200 modified test tubes hidden in the suspects’ luggage.
Among the species recovered were the Giant African Harvester Ants, which are considered ecologically vital to their native environments. Wildlife officials believe the ants were intended for sale to exotic pet collectors and amateur insect breeders in Europe and Asia, where rare queens can fetch significant sums online.
“This isn’t just a bizarre case—it’s a warning signal,” said an officer from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). “We’re seeing a shift in trafficking patterns. It’s no longer just about ivory, rhino horn, or pangolins. Now, traffickers are targeting species like ants, frogs, and beetles—creatures essential to ecosystems but not yet on many enforcement radars.”
Investigators say the suspects had been operating under the guise of entomological tourism, exploiting lax regulations around insect collection. The modified containers were fitted with ventilation holes and hydration gels, indicating a highly organized and methodical operation.
Environmental groups are sounding the alarm over what they call a new frontier in wildlife crime. Insects like ants play a crucial role in soil aeration, seed dispersal, and overall ecosystem balance—removing them disrupts natural systems in ways that can have long-term consequences.
“This case highlights how global demand for exotic pets and scientific specimens is outpacing regulation and enforcement,” said a spokesperson from WildlifeDirect, a Kenyan conservation organization. “We must update our laws and broaden our understanding of what ‘wildlife trafficking’ looks like in the 21st century.”
The four accused now await sentencing. Legal experts expect the case to spark legislative reviews, including proposals to expand Kenya’s definition of protected species and enhance monitoring at ports of entry.
by Bukeni Abdullatif
