by ArteefjidKenya’s Bien Nominated for Best Artist Eastern Africa at 2025 Trace Awards
The 2025 Trace Awards have announced their nominees, with Kenya’s own Bien securing a nomination in the Best Artist Eastern Africa category.
Best Artist Eastern Africa Nominees:
- Bien (Kenya)
- Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
- Joshua Baraka (Uganda)
- Harmonize (Tanzania)
- Rophnan (Ethiopia)
- Marioo (Tanzania)
- Zuchu (Tanzania)
- Nandy (Tanzania)
Bien, renowned as a member of the award-winning band Sauti Sol, has been instrumental in elevating Kenyan music on the global stage.
The Trace Awards celebrate the richness and excellence of Afro-centric music, encompassing genres like Afrobeat, Dancehall, Hip-Hop, Afro-Pop, and more. Artists from over 30 countries across Africa, South America, the Caribbean, the Indian Ocean, and Europe are competing in 24 categories.
Voting is open to the public and will close on February 15, 2025. Fans can cast their votes to support their favorite artists and contribute to the recognition of African music talent on a global platform.
The awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on February 26, 2025, in Zanzibar, accompanied by a music summit to celebrate the talent and global impact of African music.
For more information and to cast your vote, visit the official Trace Awards website.
Alamas’ Exclusive Interview Drops on YouTube: A Must-Watch for Fans
Alamas, one of the rising stars in East African music, has just released an exclusive interview on YouTube that is already creating waves. The artist dives deep into his musical journey, personal challenges, and the creative process behind his latest projects.
Highlights from the Interview
- Journey to Stardom 🌟
Alamas opens up about his humble beginnings, sharing how he transitioned from performing at local gigs to becoming a household name in the regional music scene. His story is one of persistence and hard work, resonating with anyone chasing a dream. - New Music Insights 🎶
Fans get a behind-the-scenes look at the making of his latest hit tracks. Alamas discusses the inspiration behind his lyrics, the collaborations that shaped his sound, and the challenges he faced during production. - Personal Life 💬
The artist gets candid about balancing fame and personal life, touching on how he stays grounded despite the pressures of the spotlight. - Message to Fans ❤️
In a heartfelt moment, Alamas expresses gratitude to his fans for their unwavering support and teases some exciting upcoming projects.
Why You Should Watch
The interview is not just a glimpse into Alamas’ life but a source of inspiration for aspiring artists and anyone interested in the music industry. With engaging storytelling and raw honesty, Alamas proves why he is one to watch in the East African music scene.
Where to Watch
The full interview is now live on YouTube. Search for “Alamas Exclusive Interview” on your favorite YouTube channel or click https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4lFRj5VunE to watch it now!
“Maria Sarungi’s Harrowing Abduction in Nairobi: A Bold Activist’s Unshaken Resolve”
Tanzanian activist Maria Sarungi Tsehai, known for her outspoken criticism of the Tanzanian government, was abducted in Nairobi’s Kilimani neighborhood on January 12, 2025.
Incident Details:
- Location and Time: Sarungi was taken from Chaka Place in Kilimani around 3:15 PM.
- Abduction: While waiting for a taxi after visiting a salon, a black Toyota Noah van blocked her ride. Two armed men exited the van, forcibly removed her from her vehicle, and handcuffed her. Despite her resistance, they overpowered her and drove off at high speed.
- Detention: During the ordeal, the abductors demanded the PIN to unlock her phone, which they had confiscated. They threatened her and used physical force, including strangulation and tightening her handcuffs, to coerce compliance.
- Release: After several hours, Sarungi was released in an unfamiliar, dark location. She managed to find her way to a main road and sought assistance to return home.
Reactions:
- Maria Sarungi Tsehai: She believes the abduction was an attempt to intimidate her due to her activism but remains resolute, stating, “If this was meant to intimidate me, I will not stop. I will not relent.”
- Human Rights Organizations: Groups like Amnesty International Kenya and the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) condemned the abduction. LSK President Faith Odhiambo labeled the incident “unfortunate” and emphasized that Kenya should not be a ground for such operations.
- Public Support: Sarungi expressed gratitude for the support from activists and the public, suggesting that the pressure applied contributed to her release.
Background:
Maria Sarungi Tsehai is a prominent Tanzanian activist and media editor, known for founding the “Change Tanzania” movement, which began as a hashtag on Twitter (#changeTanzania) to encourage citizens to participate in bringing positive change, especially in political matters. She is also the director of Miss Universe Tanzania and owns a communication company, Compass Communication.
Current Status:
As of now, there have been no official statements from Kenyan or Tanzanian authorities regarding the abduction. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of activists in the region and the potential cross-border implications of such actions.
For a firsthand account, you can watch Maria Sarungi recount her abduction experience in the following video:
“Charlene Ruto Launches KSh 193K Website Design Challenge for Kenyan Youth—Are You Ready to Win?”
Charlene Ruto, daughter of President William Ruto, has launched a competition aimed at empowering Kenyan youth in the website design industry.
Competition Details:
- Prize: The winning team will receive $1,500 (approximately KSh 193,000).
- Eligibility: Participants must be Kenyan citizens aged between 18 and 35.
- Submission Requirements:
- Links to three websites previously created by the team.
- A concise technical proposal for a website designed for TYPNI.
- Identification documents and profiles of all three team members.
- Deadline: Entries must be submitted by February 11, 2025.
About Charlene Ruto:
Since her father’s inauguration, Charlene Ruto has been actively involved in youth empowerment initiatives across Kenya. She has engaged with various leaders and participated in international forums, focusing on youth-based agendas and climate change advocacy.
Controversy:
The competition has faced criticism, with some suggesting it exploits talented youths.
How to Participate:
Interested individuals can find more information and submit their entries through TYPNI’s official channels.
This initiative reflects Charlene Ruto’s commitment to providing opportunities for young Kenyans to showcase their skills and contribute to the digital landscape.
Are You Ready for Uganda’s Next Big Movie? Story of My Life Is Almost Here! 🎬
Ugandan cinema is about to shine brighter with the release of Story of My Life, a film that’s already creating buzz. Produced by Black Market Films, this movie promises an emotional rollercoaster filled with love, resilience, and redemption.
What’s Story of My Life About?
While the storyline is still under wraps, the teasers hint at a deeply relatable narrative that tackles real-life struggles, triumphs, and heartbreaks. It’s a movie that will make you laugh, cry, and reflect all at once—a perfect mix for anyone who loves a good story.
Why You Should Be Excited
- Incredible Cast:
This film brings together some of the best talent Uganda has to offer. Expect jaw-dropping performances that will pull you right into the story. - Universal Themes:
Whether you’re in Uganda or anywhere else, the movie’s themes will strike a chord. It’s about human connections, the choices we make, and the journeys we take. - A Soundtrack You’ll Love:
Black Market Films is delivering not just a movie but a vibe. The soundtrack, packed with hits from your favorite Ugandan artists, is already turning heads.
The Hype Is Real
Fans are already counting down the days:
- “Finally, something fresh and authentic from Uganda!”
- “I’m ready to laugh, cry, and get all the feels.”
- “This movie is about to put Ugandan film on the map!”
When and Where Can You Watch It?
Story of My Life is dropping soon, with plans for theater releases and streaming platforms. Keep an eye out for the premiere date—you won’t want to miss it!
Don’t Just Hear About It, Be Part of It
This isn’t just another movie—it’s a celebration of Ugandan talent and storytelling at its finest. So, are you ready to experience Story of My Life? Grab your popcorn and stay tuned for updates! 🍿
Bien Sells Out Alusa Tickets in Record Time! 🎉🎶
Kenyan music icon Bien-Aimé Baraza, one-fourth of the legendary group Sauti Sol, has proven once again why he’s a fan favorite. Tickets for his much-anticipated Alusa Experience sold out in record time, leaving fans eager for what promises to be an unforgettable event.
About the Alusa Experience
The Alusa Experience is Bien’s unique platform to showcase his artistry, delivering intimate performances and exclusive interactions with fans. The event promises:
- Live Performances: Bien will perform hits from his solo projects, Sauti Sol classics, and possibly new unreleased music.
- Creative Storytelling: A blend of music, personal stories, and behind-the-scenes insights into his creative journey.
- Interactive Sessions: Fans will get the chance to engage with Bien up close.
A Record-Breaking Sell-Out
Tickets went live earlier this month, and within hours, all tiers were sold out.
- General Admission: Snapped up in minutes by fans eager to experience Bien’s electrifying performances.
- VIP Access: The exclusive passes were highly sought after, offering fans premium seating and personalized moments with the star.
Bien’s Reaction
The singer took to social media to express his gratitude:
- “Thank you for the overwhelming love and support! Alusa is going to be magical, and I can’t wait to share this moment with all of you.”
Fans’ Excitement
Social media platforms buzzed with fans celebrating their luck in securing tickets:
- “Bien never disappoints. Can’t wait to vibe to his music live!”
- “Missed out on tickets, but I’ll be streaming every second of this event online!”
What to Expect
The sold-out event is expected to deliver:
- Spectacular Stage Design: True to his creative nature, Bien promises a visually stunning setup.
- Star-Studded Surprises: Speculation is rife about guest appearances from fellow artists.
- Memorable Moments: Fans who secured tickets can expect a night of pure magic.
Missed Out? Don’t Worry!
For fans who couldn’t get tickets, Bien hinted at plans for streaming options and possibly additional dates:
- “Stay tuned for announcements; this is just the beginning!”
Bien’s Alusa Experience has already set a new standard for live events in Kenya, proving his unmatched star power. 🌟
Kenya Airways Donates Plane to Mang’u High School: A Flight Toward Innovation ✈️📚
In an extraordinary gesture aimed at fostering innovation and education, Kenya Airways (KQ) has donated a decommissioned aircraft to Mang’u High School, one of Kenya’s top-performing institutions. This initiative is part of KQ’s commitment to empowering the next generation of aviation enthusiasts and engineers.
A First for Kenyan Schools
The donation marks a significant milestone in Kenyan education, as Mang’u High School becomes the first secondary school in the country to receive a full-scale aircraft for learning purposes. The plane, which previously served in KQ’s fleet, will now be repurposed as a practical learning tool for students in the school’s aviation program.
Purpose of the Donation
The aircraft will serve multiple educational purposes:
- Hands-On Training
- Students interested in aviation, engineering, and mechanics will gain invaluable hands-on experience working with real aircraft components.
- Inspiration for Future Careers
- The presence of the plane is expected to inspire students to pursue careers in aviation and related fields.
- STEM Advancement
- This initiative aligns with the Kenyan government’s emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education.
Significance for Mang’u High School
Mang’u High School has a rich history of academic excellence and innovation. The institution is renowned for producing top-tier professionals in various fields, including aviation. This donation further solidifies its reputation as a leader in STEM education.
- Aviation Legacy: Mang’u has been running an aviation program as part of its curriculum, and the donation of a real aircraft will significantly enhance this initiative.
- Student Excitement: The students are thrilled about the opportunity to learn in a practical setting, with many expressing aspirations to become pilots, engineers, and aviation experts.
Kenya Airways’ Vision
Kenya Airways CEO, Allan Kilavuka, emphasized the airline’s dedication to giving back to the community and nurturing young talent.
- “At Kenya Airways, we believe in inspiring future generations. This donation is a step toward building a robust pipeline of talent for Kenya’s aviation industry,” he said.
Reactions
- Education Sector: Stakeholders have lauded KQ’s move as a groundbreaking initiative that bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
- Public Sentiment: Kenyans on social media have praised the gesture, calling it a game-changer for the education sector.
Aviation Education in Kenya Takes Off
This donation sets a precedent for other organizations to invest in educational programs that prepare students for real-world challenges. As the plane finds its new home at Mang’u High School, it symbolizes the boundless possibilities that lie ahead for young Kenyan innovators.
We salute Kenya Airways and Mang’u High School for this inspiring partnership that truly takes education to new heights!
Would you like to explore the history of Mang’u’s aviation program or discuss other impactful educational donations in Kenya? 😊
“Khalif Kairo Scandal: Social Media Sensation Arraigned in Milimani Court Over Fraud Allegations”
Joseph Kairo Wambui, popularly known as Khalif Kairo, a prominent car dealer in Nairobi, was recently arraigned at the Milimani Law Courts facing multiple charges related to allegations of failing to honor vehicle sale agreements.
Kairo, known for his active presence on social media where he often showcases a lavish lifestyle, was arrested on Friday and spent the weekend at Capital Hill Police Station.
Despite the allegations, Kairo maintains his innocence, stating on X (formerly Twitter):
“I have spent the past two days in Capital Hill Police Station. I will be presented in court at Milimani Law Courts shortly. I appreciate the massive support, messages of hope, prayers, and goodwill I have received. I am not a criminal but one of the many honest business owners in Kenya experiencing challenges due to tough economic times.”
The court proceedings have garnered significant public interest, with various media outlets covering the story.
As the legal process unfolds, stakeholders in the automotive industry and the general public are keenly observing the developments surrounding this case.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the original sources:
Former Governor Mike Sonko Graces Ex-Deputy Governor Igathe’s Daughter’s Ruracio 🎉💍
In a show of unity and cultural pride, former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko attended the ruracio (traditional Kikuyu marriage ceremony) of the daughter of ex-Nairobi Deputy Governor Polycarp Igathe. The event, held in a colorful and intimate setting, brought together family, friends, and dignitaries to celebrate the joyous occasion.
Cultural Elegance Meets Glamour
The ruracio, a traditional Kikuyu custom, was marked by vibrant cultural expressions, including traditional dances, colorful attire, and the symbolic negotiations between families. The bride, dressed in a stunning Kikuyu-inspired outfit, was the epitome of grace, while the groom proudly embraced the cultural traditions.
Mike Sonko, known for his flamboyant style, did not disappoint. He arrived in a sleek outfit that blended his signature personality with a touch of cultural elegance. His presence added a lively vibe to the ceremony, as he mingled with guests and shared light moments with the families.
A Symbol of Reconciliation?
The event was not just a celebration but also a moment of unity between two political figures who once shared the leadership of Nairobi County. Sonko and Igathe have had their differences in the past, but their appearance together at such a significant family event symbolized reconciliation and mutual respect.
Notable Moments
- Heartwarming Speeches
- Both families shared moving speeches, emphasizing the importance of cultural traditions and unity in marriage.
- Sonko took a moment to congratulate the couple, offering words of wisdom and blessings for their new journey.
- Traditional Kikuyu Cuisine
- Guests were treated to an array of traditional dishes, showcasing the richness of Kikuyu culinary heritage.
- Star-Studded Attendance
- The ceremony was graced by prominent political figures, business moguls, and cultural icons, making it a truly star-studded affair.
Social Media Reactions
Photos and videos from the event quickly went viral, with fans applauding the cultural authenticity and the gesture of unity between Sonko and Igathe.
- “Mike Sonko and Polycarp Igathe at the same event? This is growth!”
- “A beautiful celebration of love and culture. Congratulations to the couple!”
A Day to Remember
The ruracio was more than a family celebration; it was a reminder of the beauty of Kenyan traditions and the importance of setting aside differences to come together for meaningful occasions.
We wish the newlyweds a lifetime of love and happiness as they embark on their journey together. 💕
Black Market Uganda Unveils the “Not a Penny” Soundtrack on YouTube 🎶✨
Black Market Uganda has officially begun releasing the highly anticipated “Not a Penny” soundtrack on YouTube, and fans are buzzing with excitement! Known for delivering top-notch music and visual storytelling, the label brings its signature excellence to this project, creating a memorable auditory experience that complements the themes of the film.
About the “Not a Penny” Soundtrack
The soundtrack is a carefully curated collection of tracks that reflect the emotional depth, drama, and thrilling moments of the “Not a Penny” movie. Featuring a mix of rising and established artists, the music captures the essence of the film while standing out as a standalone masterpiece.
- Thematic Diversity
- The songs explore a variety of themes, including resilience, ambition, betrayal, and hope, making the soundtrack relatable to a wide audience.
- Genres range from Afrobeat and hip-hop to soulful ballads, showcasing the richness of Ugandan and East African music.
- Highlights from the Album
- “No Turning Back”: A motivational anthem about perseverance and overcoming challenges.
- “Pennyless Dreams”: A soulful track that delves into the struggles of chasing success against all odds.
- “Victory Lap”: A celebratory Afrobeat tune that captures the thrill of triumph.
Visual Experience on YouTube
Each track released on YouTube is accompanied by engaging visuals, whether it’s a lyric video, behind-the-scenes footage, or cinematic clips from the movie. The visuals add an extra layer of connection, drawing fans deeper into the world of “Not a Penny.”
Why Fans Are Loving It
Since the release began, the soundtrack has been met with enthusiastic reactions:
- “The music is as captivating as the movie itself. Black Market Uganda never disappoints!”
- “Every track tells its own story. This is what East African music needs!”
Where to Listen
The “Not a Penny” soundtrack is being released in installments on Black Market Uganda’s official YouTube channel. Fans can subscribe and turn on notifications to stay updated as new tracks drop. The complete album will soon be available on major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Boomplay.
A Must-Listen Soundtrack
With its powerful themes, stellar performances, and unforgettable melodies, the “Not a Penny” soundtrack is a testament to Black Market Uganda’s dedication to promoting high-quality music and storytelling.
🎥 Tune in now on YouTube and immerse yourself in the sound of “Not a Penny.”
