Kikuyu to the Mainstage: Sofiya Nzau Makes History at Tomorrowland
Kenyan sensation Sofiya Nzau recently shattered records by becoming the first ever Kenyan—and the first from East Africa—to perform at the legendary Tomorrowland festival in Boom, Belgium Reddit+15HapaKenya+15kbc.co.ke+15. Her historic set took place on Sunday, July 27, 2025, where she shared the stage with electronic dance music icon Steve Aoki
This milestone moment comes in the midst of Nzau’s first official European tour, launched following the global breakout success of her viral hit “Mwaki”, which has amassed over 300 million streams on Spotify. Panache in Enschede, before culminating at Tomorrowland and a sold-out performance at Germany’s Open Beatz Festival, which drew over 15,000 fans
Nzau’s rise has been meteoric: in May 2024, she became the first East African artist to surpass 10 million monthly Spotify listeners, outpacing even well-known regional stars like Diamond Platnumz and Harmonize
Her signature song “Mwaki”—performed in Kikuyu—soared to No. 1 on Spotify’s Global Viral Chart and was named the Most Viral Song in the World on Spotify’s Global list on November 16, 2023. It also landed at No. 4 on Beatport’s Afro House Top 100
But Nzau isn’t just riding one hit—she’s strategically building her brand. She’s collaborated with top European producers like Arjen Thonen, Sergio Popken, and Tommy Deckers, and took part in Tomorrowland’s invitation-only writing camp at the Lab of Tomorrow studios, which shapes dance music’s future.
Her follow-up single “Wacuka”, featuring German producer Avaion, has already surpassed 60 million streams.
With over 10 million monthly listeners, sold‑out shows in Europe, and now a historic Tomorrowland debut, Sofiya Nzau is proving that African artistry can not only endure, but thrive on the world’s biggest stages. Her fusion of traditional Kikuyu vocals and modern EDM rhythms is capturing hearts—and breaking barriers.
by muckbivi83Tems Set To Perform In Nairobi, Kenya At Blankets & Wine On September 28
Great news! Tems, the Grammy-winning Nigerian artist, is confirmed to headline Blankets & Wine Nairobi on September 28, 2025,
Tems Makes Her Return to Kenya This performance marks Tems’ first time in Kenya since a canceled show in October 2022, when her appearance at Tukutane Concert was withdrawn due to last-minute issues.
Since then, she’s made waves globally — most recently delivering a stunning halftime show at the FIFA Club World Cup Final in New Jersey in July 2025.Blankets & Wine is known not only for its lineup but for the complete experience — blending music, food, lifestyle, fashion, artisan markets, and family-friendly cultural moments. It’s often described as “Nairobi’s favourite day out.
Kenyans applying for US Visa must now disclose all social media accounts
U.S. Embassy in Nairobi has issued updated guidance requiring all Kenyan visa applicants—including tourists, workers, students, and exchange visitors—to:
Provide a list of every social media username or handle they have used over the past five years
Certify the accuracy and completeness of the information before submitting the application
MP Nyamita: Removing Ruto Won’t Stop the Killings
Mark Nyamita, MP for Uriri and a member of ODM, was interviewed on July 24, 2025, where he stated that ousting President William Ruto alone won’t end extrajudicial killings in Kenya
Nyamita emphasized the need for a national dialogue to address the systemic causes behind the abductions and killings. He pointed out that these atrocities have deeper roots in Kenyan politics and policing culture, and did not start with Ruto’s administration
He famously reminded citizens that similar state-linked violence occurred during President Kibaki’s era, including the 2007–2008 post-election violence,—and even Ruto himself was taken to the ICC over related allegations. The MP argued that the victims from that period are no less human than those targeted today
Nyamita acknowledged that Ruto’s government has significantly increased support for police independence—through increased budgets and autonomy—but maintained that this must not serve as a shield for rogue behavior. He underscored the importance of holding law enforcement to account through constitutional oversight, including IPOA and the judiciary
Importantly, Nyamita clarified that these are his personal views—not necessarily those of ODM as a party. When speaking on party strategy or official positions, only the ODM leader or spokesperson can do so.
Raila calls for end to visa barriers to spur Africa’s growth
Abolish intra-African visa barriers. He argued that the modest revenue from visas pales compared to the economic, social, and political gains of free movement across the continent.
Enact “open skies” policies. Odinga emphasized that allowing African airlines unrestricted access across borders would lower costs, boost connectivity, and spur growth—especially crucial since the region has relatively few carriers.
Empower youth and deepen integration. He reminded leaders that Africa’s majority population is young, and unlocking their potential requires mobility, opportunity, and investment On his X account, Raila reinforced these key appeals.
I called on African leaders to remove visa restrictions for Africans and open the skies to our airlines. The benefits of free movement far outweigh visa revenues.
Why Priyanka Chopra’s Big-Budget Film Ditched Kenya for Tanzania
July 18, 2025
In a surprise production shake-up, the upcoming pan-Indian action-adventure epic SSMB29—starring Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Mahesh Babu, and directed by blockbuster filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli—has officially dropped Kenya as a filming location. The crew will now head to Tanzania, citing security and logistical concerns.
Kenya’s Loss: Safety Over Scenery
Filming was initially set to take place across Kenya’s iconic landscapes, including Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo National Parks. The locations had been scouted for their dramatic savannahs, wildlife, and cinematic scale, aligning with Rajamouli’s vision for large-scale visual storytelling.
However, recent political instability and civil unrest in parts of Kenya led producers to reconsider. According to reports from Indian and international media, the team decided to shift the shoot out of concern for crew safety and insurance complications.
“We wanted authenticity in the African landscape, but the well-being of the team has to come first,” a source from the production told local outlets.
Tanzania Steps In
Enter Tanzania—a neighboring East African country known for its breathtaking natural reserves, such as the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro. The production team has identified these locations as visually comparable to their original Kenyan sites, while offering more stable logistical conditions and a cooperative film licensing environment.
The shift is not expected to delay the production timeline significantly. Principal photography is now scheduled to begin in late July 2025, with local permits in Tanzania already in the final stages of approval.
A Strategic Move for a Global Blockbuster
SSMB29 is expected to be one of the most ambitious Indian films of the decade. The movie marks Mahesh Babu’s first collaboration with Rajamouli and Priyanka Chopra’s major return to Indian cinema after a global career stretch that included Netflix originals and Hollywood features.
The storyline is reportedly a globe-trotting action-adventure with African landscapes playing a crucial narrative role, making authentic location shooting essential.
Netflix is rumored to have secured digital streaming rights in a mega-deal, positioning the film for wide international release—a move similar to Rajamouli’s 2022 hit RRR, which gained worldwide acclaim and record-breaking viewership.
Production Timeline Snapshot
| Stage | Details |
|---|---|
| Original Location | Kenya (Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo) |
| Reason for Change | Political unrest, safety concerns |
| New Location | Tanzania (Serengeti, Ngorongoro) |
| Shooting Start | Late July 2025 |
| Streaming Partner | Netflix (unconfirmed reports) |
The Bigger Picture
Tanzania’s film and tourism sectors stand to benefit significantly from the shift. Local businesses, guides, and technicians will likely be employed during the production, creating a ripple effect in the region’s economy.
Meanwhile, Kenya’s loss of a high-profile international film shoot has prompted renewed calls for more stable governance and targeted support for the creative economy, which had been positioning itself as an East African production hub.
Conclusion
While Kenya may have lost a golden opportunity, Tanzania has quickly stepped up as a worthy alternative. As SSMB29 moves forward with filming in the heart of Africa, fans can expect breathtaking landscapes, star-studded action, and the kind of cinematic spectacle only Rajamouli can deliver—this time with Tanzania as the dramatic canvas.
by Kitale Film Week: A New Frontier for African Cinema in Kenya
July 1, 2025
Kitale, Kenya — Tucked away in the lush highlands of western Kenya, the town of Kitale is fast becoming an unexpected hub for African storytelling. The Kitale Film Week, now in its third edition (held February 4–11, 2025), has emerged as one of the most dynamic platforms for filmmakers, actors, and enthusiasts from across the continent.
Launched in 2023, Kitale Film Week was born out of a vision to democratize access to cinema and shift the cultural narrative beyond Nairobi, which has long dominated Kenya’s entertainment scene. This year’s edition reinforced that mission—bringing together a vibrant mix of film screenings, industry workshops, panel discussions, and community engagement events aimed at young creatives and film lovers.
“We didn’t just want to create a festival—we wanted to build a movement that empowers regions outside the capital,” said festival director Brian Odhiambo, during the closing ceremony.
The 2025 edition featured over 40 films from Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Ethiopia, and Senegal, among others. Genres ranged from intimate documentaries and Afrofuturist animations to gritty crime thrillers and rural coming-of-age dramas. Many of the works had never been screened outside major cities, giving the Kitale audience an exclusive first look.
A key highlight of the week was the Youth Filmmaker Lab, a hands-on training program that offered emerging talent an opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals. In partnership with universities and production houses, the lab nurtured local voices while reinforcing the festival’s commitment to grassroots development.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Local businesses thrived as the festival brought in hundreds of visitors. From increased hotel bookings to impromptu pop-up cinemas in public parks, the ripple effect extended beyond the arts—offering a glimpse into what decentralised cultural investment can achieve.
Kitale’s mayor, Rose Khaemba, hailed the event as “a landmark in the town’s cultural calendar,” adding that the county government is exploring ways to make Kitale a permanent fixture on Kenya’s creative economy map.
Looking Ahead
As the demand for diverse African stories continues to grow, Kitale Film Week positions itself not just as a festival—but as a movement for inclusion, representation, and regional equity in the arts.
In a country where creative opportunities are often concentrated in Nairobi’s urban sprawl, Kitale’s cinematic revolution is a powerful reminder: great stories can come from anywhere.
New Singles & Collaborations
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Team Veterans feat. Cjay Slim – “Mboka Doba”
A hard-hitting anthem about hustle, blending energetic street-level storytelling and commanding verses from both artists -
Teslah – “Lover Girl”
A sweet, emotionally raw track with smooth production by Unspoken Salaton. The visualizer was shot in Nairobi and captures the city’s vibe beautifully -
Unspoken Salaton ft. Mluo, Trio Mio & Lenny – “Hupangi Kuolewa?”
Tackling the societal question “Aren’t you planning to marry?”, this song sparked TikTok buzz and challenges before its release -
Josephyl feat. Teslah & Unspoken Salaton – “Beba”
A dreamy blend of rap and melodic vocals celebrating love and admiration. An instant summer vibe -
DJ Moon ft. Joefes & Unspoken Salaton – “Katerina”
Dropped just yesterday, this vibrant track follows DJ Moon’s earlier hit “Okay” and continues the label’s momentum -
Black Market Records’ YouTube community channel – “Wapole”
A dynamic Afro-beat single released Apr 30, 2025, showcasing the label’s talent synergy
🔔 Recent Social Teasers
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In late April, BMR hinted at an upcoming dramatic release from Prophecy F via Instagram
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In late May, they shared content focused on building strategic audience bases .
📅 At a Glance
| Release | Artists | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mboka Doba | Team Veterans ft. Cjay Slim | Hustler’s anthem |
| Lover Girl | Teslah | Nairobi-shot visualizer |
| Hupangi Kuolewa? | Unspoken Salaton & crew | TikTok conversation starter |
| Beba | Josephyl, Teslah & Unspoken Salaton | Melodic summer vibe |
| Katerina | DJ Moon, Joefes & Unspoken Salaton | Drop confirmed June 11, 2025 |
| Wapole | BMR collective | Afro-beat, April 30, 2025 release |
Quick Take
Black Market Records has been extremely active this spring—releasing at least five new singles across several artists. There’s a strong emphasis on collaborations (e.g., Unspoken Salaton appears on three of the tracks), and a balanced mix of love-themed, socially reflective, and upbeat street records. If you’re looking to stay updated, all tracks are available on YouTube and major streaming platforms.
Black Market Records Teases Exciting New Release: “Hupangi Kuolewa” Featuring Unspoken Salaton and Trio Mio
Black Market Records continues to stir excitement in the East African music scene with the announcement of an upcoming release that has fans eagerly awaiting. The label recently teased a sneak peek of a brand-new track titled “Hupangi Kuolewa”, featuring two of Kenya’s most compelling voices: Unspoken Salaton and Trio Mio.
The short preview, shared across the label’s social media platforms, hints at a high-energy collaboration blending Unspoken Salaton’s hard-hitting lyricism with Trio Mio’s signature street-smart style. Both artists have built strong followings in Kenya’s urban music circuit, and this collaboration is expected to amplify their reach and set new trends.
Though details about the full release date remain under wraps, the snippet has already sparked buzz among fans and music critics alike. Early reactions praise the song’s infectious rhythm and the dynamic chemistry between the two artists—suggesting another hit is on the horizon.
The title “Hupangi Kuolewa”, which loosely translates to “You not planning to Marry”, hints at a socially resonant theme, possibly addressing issues around personal freedom and societal pressure—topics often explored by both artists in their work.
With Black Market Records backing the project, expectations are high for a powerful music video to accompany the track. If the teaser is any indication, “Hupangi Kuolewa” is poised to become a standout anthem in the region’s 2025 musical landscape.
Stay tuned—this is one drop you won’t want to miss.
Spurs snatch narrow win over Man Utd in dismal Europa League final
Tottenham Hotspur clinched the 2025 UEFA Europa League title with a 1-0 victory over Manchester United in the final held at San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao on May 21, 2025. This triumph ended a 17-year trophy drought for Spurs, marking their first major silverware since the 2008 League Cup and their first European title since 1984 
The decisive goal came in the 42nd minute when Brennan Johnson capitalized on a defensive lapse by United, bundling the ball into the net following a cross from Pape Sarr . Despite having only 29% possession and three shots during the match, Tottenham’s defense held firm against United’s attacks . Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario made crucial saves, including a stoppage-time header from Luke Shaw, while defender Micky van de Ven cleared a potential equalizer off the line .
This victory not only secured Tottenham’s third UEFA Cup/Europa League title but also guaranteed their qualification for the 2025–26 UEFA Champions League . The win served as vindication for manager Ange Postecoglou, who had promised success in his second season . Cristian Romero was named Man of the Match for his outstanding defensive performance .
Post-match celebrations were heartfelt, with captain Son Heung-min lifting the trophy amidst jubilant scenes . Midfielder James Maddison, despite missing the match due to injury, joined the festivities on the pitch with his family . Former Spurs player Jamie O’Hara expressed his elation live on talkSPORT, highlighting the emotional significance of the win for long-suffering fans .
