NRGWave Set To Be Kenya's Biggest New Year’s Eve Party

Kenya’s biggest jump-off party, dubbed #NRGwave is set to take place on December 31, at the Wild Waters in Mombasa. The event, a first of its kind, will provide party people with the ultimate entertainment experience for the night offering a line-up of 12 A-list artistes, 12 top deejays and three unique stages to experience from 6pm to 6am.

This edition of the party, aims to draw Kenyans from all over the country to enjoy a New Years’ party experience courtesy of Coca Cola, Captain Morgan Gold, Safaricom, Little Cabs KE and the County of Mombasa. It promises to deliver an exhilarating experience setting new standards in entertainment. Promising to be a first of its kind, iconic stage design, adrenaline-pumping disco lights and a fireworks display is set to light up the Mombasa night sky.

“We’re pulling all the stops to redefine what a NYE party should feel like. From the NRGized sound, stage and lights setup to the NRGized performances from our star-studded line up of East Africa’s finest music talent. This is the one party you don’t want to miss” the organisers noted.

This year has registered a host of concerts and events that have given our local artistes a platform to perform not only in the country, but across borders as well. In light of this, the #NRGWave team would like to provide supporting platforms to the entertainment industry by promoting local acts.

The line-up will consist Nyashinski, Khaligraph Jones, King Kaka, Avril, Timmy Tdat, Naiboi, Kristoff, Fena, Jonny Skanny, Victoria Kimani, Akothee and Rayvanny. Deejays will consist Bash, Phauz, Shiruh, Space, Wesley, Mura, Hypnotic, Xclusive and Elonn. The event will be hosted by DNG, Gates and Mzazi Willy Tuva.

Tickets to the #NRGWave party are available on Ticketsasa or www.nrg.co.ke/wave

Full List Of 2017 Kalasha International Film & TV Awards Nominees

The Kenya Film Commission (KFC) has unveiled the nominees of this year's Kalasha International Film & TV Awards. During the unveiling breakfast at the IMAX theatres in Nairobi CBD on Wednesday, November 8, KFC announced that it had registered the highest number of entries ever received since the inception of Kalasha.

It said that 237 films were submitted, affirming the credibility of the Kalasha over the last seven years. This year, the Kalasha International has been split in three with the Kalasha International Film Festival set from December 4-8, the Awards gala on December 9 and the Market set for March 2018.

Here is the full list of the 2017 Kalasha Film & TV Awards nominees;

BEST COMEDY

Arnold and Bundi
Waliobaki
Urembo
Hullaballoo Estate

BEST PERFORMANCE IN A COMEDY

Jela 5 Star - Bilal Wanjau
Mshamba - James Chanji
Waliobaki - Fevan Abraham
Junior - Jamal Nasoor

BEST TV HOST

Teddy Muthusi – Lion’s Den
Neomi Ng’ang’a – Sema Nami
Keff Joinange – XYZ SHOW
Mary Mwikali – Life & Style

BEST TV DRAMA

New Beginnings
Sue & Johnnie
Keru
Maza

BEST ACTOR IN A TV DRAMA

Sue &Johmnie - Marting Githinji
Tumaini senta - Maina Olwenya
New Beginnings - Joed Kariuki
Mama Duka - Alan Weku

BEST ACTRESS IN A TV DRAMA

Sue & Johnie – Catherine Kamau
Tumaini senta – Nice Githinji
Mama duka – Ruth Ndulu Maingi
La Msingi Mary Khavere

BEST DOCUMENTARY

Sound Man
Imara
The Last Maasai
Lukembe

BEST FEATURE BY A STUDENT

Dilemma
Anti – Riots
Detox
Tangled Web

BEST TV COMMERCIAL OVERALL

Faiba
Betin
Mkulima
Wafula

BEST SHORT FILM

Uyu Ni Mwarigwo
Chebet
Kaleidoscope
Lina

BEST TV DOCUMENTARY

Story Yangu
Matwana Matatu Culture
Eco @ Africa
The Entrepreneur

BEST DIASPORA

Luna
The Call For Life
Tell It On The Mountain
Born This Way

BEST ANIMATION

Ma-Otero
XYZ Show
Tear Gas Oketch
Machismo

BEST FEATURE FILM

Kati Kati
Aisha
Inherited
Kidnapped

BEST ORIGINAL SCREEN PLAY

KatiKati – Mbithi Masya & Mugambi Nthiga
Aisha – Arnold Mwanjila
Kidnapped- Serah Mwihaki
Inherited – Mona Ombogo

BEST DIRECTOR

Kati Kati – Mbithi Masya
Aisha – Arnold Mwanjila
Kidnapped – Nick Njache
Inherited – Grace Kahaki

BEST DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY

Kati Kati - Andrew Mungai
Inherited – Phillippe Bresson
Kidnapped – Wambui Muigai / Likarion Wainaina
Wakwe – Lucky Collins

BEST LIGHTING TECHNICIAN

Aisha – Joseph Gathogo
KatiKati – Siobhan Wilson
Wakwe – Kevin Mutua
Chozi – Bosco Mkindi Soup

BEST EDITOR

Kati Kati – Louiza Wanjiku
Kidnapped – Nick Njache
Wakwe – Hamad Kamole
Joni – Rodrick Ngatia / Emmanuel Otieno

BEST SPECIAL EFFECTS

Kati Kati

BEST SOUND DESIGN

Kidnapped – Eric Musyoka
Kati Kati – Florian Holzner
Chozi – Alex Mugenda
Wakwe – Khamisi Mohammed

BEST PRODUCTION DESIGNER

Aisha – Emmanuel Murabu
KatiKati – Emmanuel Murabu
Inherited – Grace Kahaki
Wakwe  - Shadrack Mwabuni

BEST ACTOR

Kati Kati – Elsaphan Njora
Wakwe – Ayub Bakari
Uyu Ni Mwarigwo – Frank Kimani
Pendo – Maina Olwenya

BEST ACTRESS 

Kati Kati – Nyokabi Gethaiga
Aisha – Joyce Maina
Chebet -  Anita Nthenya Kavuu Ng’ang’a
Kaleidoscope – Melisa Kiplangat

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR

Aisha – Patrick Gatimu
Kidnapped – Gilbert Lukalia
Kati Kati – Paul Ogola
Maria – Anthony Ndung’u

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS

Uyu Ni Mwarigwo – Wanjiku Njoroge
Lina – Mumbi Maina
Maria – Mercy Wanjiru
Bait – Millicent Ogutu

BEST EAST AFRICAN FILM

Maria
Breaking With Customs
Kati Kati
Kidnapped

BEST DOCUMENTARY BY A STUDENT

Okola
Gifted  Soul
Unknown Language
The Paradox Of Child Delivery

BEST LOCAL LANGUAGE

Uyu Ni Mwarigwo
Pendo
Torture
Gun Point

Meet Khan, Kenya’s Best Nasheed Artiste And Quran Reciter

Ibrahim Jan Khan Mohamed is one of the most popular Nasheed artistes in Kenya and in East Africa today.

Nasheed is a work of vocal music that is either sung a cappella or accompanied by percussion instruments. Nasheed are popular throughout the Islamic world. The material and lyrics of a Nasheed usually make reference to Islamic beliefs, history, and religion, as well as current events.

Khan is also highly innovative and successful professional musician with a strong expertise in the art of composing original, thematic music and playing covers for live audiences. He is currently working with Nairobi-based production house, Mainswitch Production.

The 23-year-old award-winning artiste and Quran reciter went professional in 2014, and throughout his career, he has recorded several Nasheed including Mama. Recently, Khan released Days Will Come and Go, which is receiving impressive viewership online.

Khans’ singing is exciting and breath-taking. He is noted for his mesmerising and captivating vocal improvisations and vocalises lyrics to instrumental solos. He uses the voice as his instrument, displaying precision and agility, mixed with heartfelt emotion. His honesty shines in well-chosen collection of songs.

He speaks four languages: English, Kiswahili, Arabic and Urdu. As a poet, he’s won the prestigious Wallah bin Wallah Award.

Watch some of his works below:

'Ultimate Comic' Pitch Tent In Nairobi For Final Leg Auditions

Are you funny? Can you tickle a rib? If this description suit you, then you will have to head to Kenya National Theatre (KNT) in Nairobi this weekend, as talent judges Tony Njuguna, Jalang’o and Massawe Japanni will be on the look-out for fresh talented stand-up comedians for the upcoming Maisha Magic East's show, Ultimate Comic.

In the last three weeks, close to 300 hopeful contestants have presented themselves to the judges in Mombasa, Nakuru and Kisumu, to prove that they have what it takes to be the top comic. The contestants who will be selected in Nairobi will join other selected contestants from the previous auditions for the knock out stages in the coming weeks.

“We are happy with the success we have witnessed so far in the three towns where we have already carried out auditions. We have seen good talent and selected some finalists from each of the regions for the next phase of the competition. The Ultimate Comic show gives comedians an opportunity to showcase their talent even as we give them a platform to build their skills and capacity. At Maisha Magic, we are committed to producing shows that allow us to contribute towards growing our local people and industries,” said Maisha Magic East Head of Channel, Margaret Mathore.

Comedians in Nairobi between the ages of 18-50 can take part in the auditions which will be held at the Kenya National theatre on Friday, October 13 and Saturday, October 14, between 8am and 6pm.

Following the auditions, 36 shortlisted comedians from across the country will then proceed to the knock out stages and live shows, before the grand finale scheduled for March 2018. The Ultimate Comic winner will walk away with a TV contract, one million shillings in cash prize and a brand new car.

The new show will start airing exclusively on Maisha Magic East on DStv Channel 158 and GOtv Channel 4 from November 4, 2017, and consequently every Saturday from 8.30pm.

'Our Perfect Wedding' Back On Maisha Magic East

Maisha Magic East’s reality wedding show, Our Perfect Wedding (OPW), made a return for its second season on October 5, this year. This offers the viewers a chance to walk with couples and experience the drama, excitement and emotional journey that comes with planning a wedding.

One lucky couple will also get the wedding of their dreams, as Maisha Magic East (MME) will once again reward one lucky viewer with an all-expense paid wedding and honeymoon. During the second season of OPW, 26 lucky DStv and GOtv viewers will also win a holiday for two, just by watching the show and answering some trivia.

Speaking during the launch, Maisha Magic East Head of Channel Margaret Mathore said MME remains committed to promoting local content in Kenya.

“Weddings are a large part of the Kenyan culture and African culture as a whole. Our Perfect Wedding is the only reality drama series that revolves around the whole wedding process that we all love! As you all know, wedding planning comes with its dose of drama as well as entertainment and inspiration. This is what we want to showcase to our audiences,” she said.

GOtv Kenya General Manager Simon Kariithi reiterated the company’s commitment towards supporting the local industry in Kenya, in return spurring economic growth.

He said, “MultiChoice is rooted in countries where our customers live and we are very proud of the contribution we are making in our local communities. We have done this through our DStv platforms, that has delivered content that people across the continent for the past 22 years, and GOtv for six years. We also strive to offer our viewers the best local content through having Maisha Magic Channels exclusively on both our DStv and GOtv platforms. We realise that our audiences are thirsty for good quality shows and as the entertainment industry grows, we take the opportunity to serve audiences with more of what they want.”

The new season promises to give viewers a lot of entertainment coupled with drama that goes into planning “the perfect” wedding. The second season will feature 26 couples instead of 14 couples as was featured in the debut season. It airs every Thursday at 8pm on DStv Channel 158 and GOtv Channel 4.

Tippy Toe Remix Is Here!

Rapper Femi One, has released the much anticipated Tippy Toe Remix. The song has featured some of the biggest names in the industry namely Kristoff, Fena Gitu, Timmy Tdat, King Kaka and DJ JR.

"I am so humbled that I got to work with such great artistes on this remix. I have learnt so much from their careers. I admire Fena Gitu and Timmy Tdat's consistency, which is commendable. Kristoff is a genius with feel good music and King Kaka's ability to fit in any type of song is inspiring," says Femi One

"It was awesome working with all these amazing artistes on this great, fun song. We definitely all had so much fun," says Kristoff.

Timmy Tdat: "There was a lot of chemistry going on  on this song, I was so humbled to be a part of the remix."

"It was fun working with the crazy Kaka Empire bunch. I am personally a big fan of Femi One, so it was a pleasure to finally get to do something with her," says Fena Gitu.

King Kaka, "Bomb! Kubwaaaa!" 

The song was produced by Jack Jack on the Beat and the video directed by Johnson Kyalo for Empire Films.

Watch it here:

MaaFleva Partners With The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Entertainment outfit Maafleva Entertainment is set to partner with the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Kajiado Chapter in a youth programme that aims at increasing youth participation in business.

MaaFleva, which has been undertaking several community led projects, will put to paper the deal, which will seek to promote youth led businesses in the county. According to the unit's CEO Tom Kimintah, while the government and other financial institutions have been pushing for more participation by the youth in business and entrepreneurship, there is little assistance when it comes to capacity building.

MaaFleva CEO Tom Kimintah.

"By partnering with the chamber, MaaFleva Entertainment is able to create a platform where the youth can develop strong business links, leveraging on the expertise accrued over the years, and also given the Chambers specific mission to promote entrepreneurship and increase business membership," he said.

The Search Is On For The Ultimate Comic

Maisha Magic East in partnership with Kenya's comedy king Daniel ‘Churchill’ Ndambuki is in search of Kenya’s ultimate comic. The new reality show dubbed Ultimate Comic is a televised stand-up TV comedy show, which aims to find one rib-cracking stand-up comedian between the age of 18 and 50, to perform comedy acts on stage, created by themselves.

The hunt will begin through auditions in four major towns in Kenya beginning in Mombasa from September 22 and 23, then Kisumu City on September 29 and 30. Auditions will be held in Nakuru on October 6 and 7 and finally Nairobi on October 13 and 14.

Maisha Magic East Head of Channel Margaret Mathore says, “The Ultimate Comic is a platform that Maisha Magic East is offering, for local comedians to showcase their talent. We strive to deliver the shows that people love into their hands and their living rooms while using our influence and resources to play a positive role in Africa. We remain committed to helping to grow our local people and creative industries. This show is a continued sign of that commitment by Maisha Magic East.”

Following the auditions, 40 successful comedians from across the country will be shortlisted to take part in the knock out stages and live shows before the grand finale scheduled for March 2018. In the winner-takes-all show, The Ultimate Comic will have a hefty task of not only bringing rib-cracking stand-up comedy to convince the judges of the show that they are the funniest person, but will have to win the love of the whole country to garner votes for the top position.

Judges include renowned comedians Tony Njuguna, Felix Odiwuor aka Jalang’o and radio host Massawe Japanni. The short listed comedians will also receive mentorship by various top personalities among them Charles Bukeko beter known as Papa Shirandula, MC Jessy, Abel Mutua, Sammy Mwangi, Victor Ber, Carolyne Adong’o and Obillo Ng’ongo.

Daniel "Churchill" Ndambuki.

The show aims to grow new talent in the comedy industry and accord a chance for both the young and old alike to realise their dreams. The winner of The Ultimate Comic will not only have the title Ultimate Comic, but they will also walk away with a TV contract, one million shillings and a brand new car.

It will air on Maisha Magic East from November 4, 2017 at 8.30pm. It becomes the fifth of the 15 local shows to launch on Maisha Magic East for the year 2017/2018 in an aim to promote local productions and in turn support local talent in the film industry. The new comedy reality show will air exclusively on Maisha Magic East on DStv channel 158 and GOtv channel 4, every Saturday at 8.30pm.

Kenya's Exclusive Local Content Broadcaster Raia TV Set For Launch

The migration from analog to digital transmission in broadcasting has opened up a new world of possibilities. This has made it possible for many Kenyans to realise their dreams which before was just but a mirage.

Among those who have benefited from this are two renowned producers of local Kenyan content; Ann Hamberger and Henry Lenga. The two are renowned for their exciting and entertaining Swahili movies and series which have previously aired on our local stations and also on Maisha Magic. Out of the limited airplay given to the Swahili local content, the two felt the need to start their own station to bridge the gap.

Raia TV CEO Ann Hamberger and Executive Director Henry Lenga.

On October 6 this year, a new free-to-air TV station that will be airing local Swahili entertainment is set to be launched. Raia TV will be broadcasting 100 per cent pure local entertainment, showing movies, series, soaps, comedies, dramas, reality shows, talk shows and features back to back. The station is aimed at promoting and give opportunity to the local content producers giving them a platform to showcase their talents. True to its name, Raia TV, is targeted to resonate with the normal mwananchi –Raia.

Though broadcasting from Mombasa city, Raia TV will also be viewed in Mombasa, Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, Meru and Nyeri, before rolling out countrywide viewership.

"Others will also be able to watch us on the online stream and soon we shall be launching a Video On Demand (VOD) platform," says Hamberger.

This station will increase uptake of local content, and hence, more job opportunities for the youth in Kenya. Raia TV will make it possible for Kenyans at large to enjoy the digital dividend.

The new station is the brainchild of of Ashiner Pictures' Ann and Henry, who are the CEO and Executive Director of Raia TV respectively. The two have been producing swahili local content for over a decade, with TV series shows such as Majaliwa, Cheche, Udhalimu, Almasi, Sumu, Kashfa, Nyota and Utandu, among others. A majority of them have gone ahead to win awards locally and internationally.

Others are movies such as Sakalakata, Nafsi Lawama, Kisase, Haini, Wazuzi, Consequences, Gift from the Curse, Lulu, Taswira and Heart and Soul, which have all aired on Maisha Magic Swahili, and also on Tanzania's Azam TV. It will broadcast on the PANG signal and the channel number will be revealed during the launch.

Singer 2GB Diva Teams Up With Zikki In New Jam

Dubai-based Kenyan singer, songwriter and performing artiste 2GB Diva jetted back in the country a few weeks ago to work on a number of projects, something she calls keeping in touch with my roots.

As part of her artistic duty, to be the mouthpiece for the society, 2GB teamed up with Mombasa-based artiste Shephard to unveil Amani, a single that aimed to preach peace during this year’s election period.

Releasing her latest single dubbed Nikujue, a Swahili word for I want to know you. In this new track, the very talented young star joins forces with Take It Slow hitmakers Zikki. Nikujue, a soulful Afro pop track that is set to take local airwaves by storm is smooth, laid back and vey relatable. It tells a story of two young lovers who would love to advance their relationship as love and attraction keep growing.

While conservative 2GB Diva maintains her style of music, which is mostly Swahili influenced, Zikki’s urban style brings in the street love feel in this joint and the results are impeccable.
Produced by So Fresh, the song is accompanied by stunning visuals starring 2GB Diva and Zikki which were directed by Zezzoh Monts for NF Inc.

Watch the video below:

DStv Lines Up Special Programmes To Celebrate The Life Of Princess Diana

DStv is joining the world in commemorating the life of Princess Diana in a series of documentaries that will be showcased on various channels this August and September. There has been a lot of intrigue surrounding the Princess of Wales before and after her death aged 36 on August 31, 1997 following a tragic high-speed car crash in Paris; from speculation on her personal life, to various conspiracy theories about the tragic accident that led to her death.

Tune in to DStv for some insight and a commemorative look back at Princess Diana‘s life, as well as the tragic death from a variety of media personalities and biographers. Below are some of the highlights dedicated to the 20-year tribute of Princess Diana’s death:

The Last 100 Days of Diana: Retracing what was a touching event of Princess Diana’s first and last summer as a single woman. In between romance, paparazzi and her tragic untimely death in a car accident. The two-hour long documentary hosted by former ABC News co-anchor Martin Bashir. Tune in on Friday, August 25 20:30 EAT on M-Net. You can also catch Princess Diana: Her Life - Her Death - The Truth, hosted by Gayle King - coming to M-Net on September 1 at 20:00 EAT.

Death of Diana: This extraordinary untold story unlocks the answers to Diana’s fate through a series of shocking revelations. The car she was travelling in on that fatal was badly damaged in crash and declared a write-off more than two years before the Alma Tunnel tragedy. It also reveals how the car was spared the scrapheap and came to join the Ritz’s limousine service. The film features exclusive testimony from contributors and witnesses, including members of the investigation team and emergency services who were first to arrive on the scene of the crash, with some speaking out for the first time ever. Tune in on Sunday, September 3 at 21:15 EAT on the History Channel.

Diana and the Paparazzi: The People’s Princess and darling of the media, Diana was the most sought after and photographed woman in the world, with newspapers and magazines paid fortunes to get hold of circulation boosting pictures of her. Diana and Paparazzi looks into the Princess’s love-hate relationship with the peoples who courted and hunted her. Those closest to Diana will reveal how she enjoyed using the press for her own ends and told stories through pictures. Airs on Thursday, August 31 at 21:00 EAT on iTV.

Diana: The Day the World Cried: Kate Winslet’s narration Diana’s Funeral is the story of the day, as told by people who were there. From famous faces at Westminster Abbey to those behind the scenes such as the funeral’s chief architect Sir Malcolm Ross who had just six days to plan the whole event; chief pallbearer Captain Richard Williams who had the weight of the nation on his and his men’s shoulders plus the former Royal Protection Officer who looked after Diana and the two Princes and travelled in the hearse with Diana’s coffin. Tune in on Friday, September 1 at 21:00 EAT on iTV.

Princess Diana: Tragedy or Treason: Diana, Princess of Wales, was both the style and substance, fashion idol and a humanitarian. The documentary series examines new evidence and features exclusive interviews from insiders to shed new light on the life and death of one of history’s most beloved figures. She redefined what it meant to be royal, so much so that many feared she would ultimately bring down the monarchy. Instead, through her legacy, she ended up saving it. Tune in to TLC Entertainment from Thursday, August 31 at 21:00 EAT.

Kalasha International Film & TV Festival 2017 Calls For Entries

Registration has opened for film, TV and creative players to join this year's edition of the Kalasha International Film & TV Festival & Market. Kalasha International is an initiative of the Kenya Film Commission (KFC), bringing under one roof a film festival, film and TV awards and market.

It offers all film, TV, creative professionals a unique platform to discuss, collaborate and develop new business opportunities in the fast growing East African region. KFC is urging interested players to submit their films and registrations before the stipulated deadlines.

Deadline for submission of films is September 15. The festival and market is scheduled to run between October 16-21 in Nairobi. The Kalasha Film & TV Trade Show will held on October 18 & 20, will showcase Kenyan, East African and pan-African companies under pavilions, while the TV and film players will attend as participants.

The film festival will be held for the period in various venues throughout Kenya. Eligible entries will be from the entire continent and screenings will be organised in various theatres and venues. The 2017 Kalasha Film & TV Awards ceremony will bring down the curtains on the five-day event on October 21.

According to KFC, the range of the categories has increased to incorporate a new category called East African. Filmmakers in the region can follow the link www.kalashainternational.com

to enter films for the awards ceremony.

Apass: Kenya's Avril Is Simply Amazing!

Ugandan award winning Reggae and Dancehall artiste Apass has described sexy Kenyan singer and actress Avril as "amazing". He has spoken at a time when the two have just released a collaborative single dubbed Babiee.

Avril

The song is an upbeat feel good song that gets your head bopping. It's the first time the duo is working on a project together.

"Saint P and I came up with the song when we were jamming in studio and thought it would be a really great song," says Avril.

"The song was a different concept and it was something I wanted to do. When the song was presented to me, I instantly liked it and felt like jumping on it," says Apass.

He adds: "I was so humbled to work with Avril and her whole team. It was amazing. It is amazing how music works, you don't know someone, they don't know you, but they know your music and like what you do and you happen to like what they do as well. It was a very good project to do. I give thanks." 

"Working with Apass was amazing. His work ethic and great spirit just made everything work so well. I am humbled to have worked on a song with him," adds Avril. 

Apass

The two artistes have not ruled out working on another project together in the near future. Babiee was produced by Saint P and the video was directed by J Blessing. 

Apass is best known for hits such as Gamululu and Marianna. Four of his songs were featured as soundtracks in the acclaimed Disney Film Queen of Katwe, which starred sensational Hollywood and Oscar winning Kenyan actress Lupita Nyong'o.

Watch Babiee below:

Fashion Giants LC Waikiki And Woolworths For The Hub Karen

Global fashion retail giants LC Waikiki and Woolworths have announced plans to open stores at The Hub Karen Mall in Nairobi, cementing the mall’s stature to attract leading international brands.

The two stores are expected to open at the start of the fourth quarter. The entry of the two brands further enhances Kenya’s attractiveness as an investment destination for retailers looking to tap into the budding affinity of Kenyans towards international brands.

"We are proud to host two more international brands as we continue attracting the world’s leading brands to the mall, said," Philippe Cauviere, the Chief Executive Officer at Azalea Holdings, the developers of the mall.

The two brands join other international brands that have set up shop at the mall since its opening in February last year. Azalea Holdings said the mall has been deliberate in the selection of its tenants to ensure a diverse and rich mix of local and international brands.

"At The Hub Karen, our focus is to offer customers diverse and unique options to meet their tastes and expectations. We want to guarantee our shoppers an international experience right here at home," added Mr Cauviere.

Commenting on the opening of their new 7,100 Sqft store, Woolworths said they were attracted to the Hub Karen by its high quality and its excellent location.

"The opening of this store at The Hub Karen is in line with our policy to expand the Woolworths brand and make our stores accessible to customers in Nairobi," affirmed a statement by Woolworths’ press office.

On its part, LC Waikiki announced that it was investing $1 million (around Sh100 million) to open the 11,000 Sqft shop that will employ more than 30 employees.

More about about LC Waikiki

"The stable economy in Kenya has supported our investments as a gateway to growing our footprint in the country and the larger African market," said LC Waikiki’s Country Manager, Kremena Pencheva.

The lifestyle destination mall features more than 90 shopping stores hosting local and international retailers. Some of the brands in the mall include French retail giant Carrefour, Furniture Palace, Funscapes, F&F fashion, Bossini, Adidas, Reebok, Burger King, Dominos, KFC, Artcaffe and Ocean Basket among others. Shopper numbers have continued to grow at The Hub Karen with the foot count clocking over 4.2 million customers since its opening.

The development is East Africa's first open air shopping destination and is part of the investment portfolio of businessman Humphrey Kariuki. His other business interests include; Mount Kenya Safari Club, Great Lakes Africa Energy, Dalbit Petroleum, WOW Beverages (formerly Wines of the World) and Africa Spirits Limited among others. 

WWE, SuperSport Sign Pact To Air Live Programming In Sub-Saharan Africa

Wrestling enthusiasts in Africa have a thing to smile about as World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and continent’s premier sport channels provider, SuperSport, have today announced a new multi-year agreement to broadcast WWE programming live for the first time in more than 50 countries in sub-Saharan Africa.

Starting August 28, this year, DStv and GOtv customers will have access to the world’s biggest wrestling entertainment when SuperSport airs WWE’s flagship shows Raw and SmackDown, as well as WWE specials such as WrestleMania and SummerSlam.

READ ALSO: DStv Viewers To Get A Glimpse Of What It's Like Being Bonang

“WWE is a global phenomenon, so securing the broadcast rights for SuperSport is a terrific coup. The athletes involved are larger than life figures who command huge followings. At long last our DStv and GOtv viewers will get to share in this entertainment spectacle in high definition. I look forward to a long and fruitful partnership with WWE,” said SuperSport Chief Executive officer Gideon Khobane.

DStv Premium, Compact+ and Compact customers will enjoy their wrestling drama live while DStv Family and Access will also enjoy same-day rebroadcast of the events which will be available on SuperSport channels S7, S9 and SS10. Viewers can look forward to Raw on Tuesdays and SmackDown on Wednesdays offering both live telecasts and same-day re-airs, as well as all WWE specials live, including WrestleMania, SummerSlam, Survivor Series and Royal Rumble. GOtv viewers will have access to the wrestling action on Select 3, available to GOtv Plus customers.

“SuperSport is a best-in-class partner who shares our vision and passion for engaging with and entertaining our fans. Televising WWE programming live in sub-Saharan Africa for the first time an important milestone for us, and we look forward to working with SuperSport to cultivate new fans in the region,” said WWE Executive Vice President, International, Ed Wells.

READ ALSO: Elani Set For Comeback At Inaugural Tudishi Feastival

“We’re delighted to bring our DStv and GOtv customers yet another sport that’s going to keep them glued to their TV and mobile screens. This addition to our sports offering will certainly bring more value for our customers and ensure that SuperSport remains their go-to World of Champion and home to the world’s biggest sports. This is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that our platforms deliver only the best entertainment to our customers,” said MultiChoice East Africa Regional Director, Stephen Isaboke.

All programs will be available with English commentary and on demand. To celebrate the new partnership, SuperSport will televise the prior week’s episodes of Raw and SmackDown on Monday, August 28.

Comic Eric Omondi Tickles Bidco Africa For Sh0.5 Million!

Sensational Kenyan comedian Eric Omondi is laughing all the way to bank! This comes after he penned down a deal worth a staggering Sh500,000 with giant consumer goods manufacturer Bidco Africa.

Eric Omondi

The fast-moving Thika-based company has signed on as the title sponsor of the popular Untamed 10, the popular one-man stand-up comedy series created by and starring Eric Omondi. As part of the sponsorship deal, fans of the popular comedian stand a chance of winning Golden Fry gift hampers during the event to be held on Saturday July 30, 2017, at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi.

“We love Eric Omondi. We love his unique and fun approach to comedy and content creation. He focuses on making his fans happy which is totally in line with our happy healthy living philosophy. Bidco is a company that supports local innovation and talent and this show exudes both of those qualities tremendously,” said Chris Diaz, Bidco Africa Group Sales and Marketing Director.

Eric Omondi with Bidco Africa Group Sales and Marketing Director Chris Diaz

Eric Omondi thanked the company for its support saying, “I am so glad a company I already admire has stepped forward to support me. Not everyone understands what I am doing, but Bidco is a company of vision and guts. I could not be more thrilled to have them as our sponsor.”

Eric is one of Kenya’s biggest comedians and he has continued to deliver big laughs even after his departure from the Churchill Show. After leaving the largest stand-up comedy collective, Eric Omondi branched out and has made a name for himself with the Untamed shows.

Fashion Meets Tech: Glitzy Affair As Oppo F3 Black Is Launched In Kenya

It was a great evening for upcoming fashion designers as they showcased their creations at a colourful event to mark Oppo F3 Black's entry into the Kenyan market. The smartphone's 'Limited Edition' launch event dubbed Oppo Fashion Night was held at Radisson Blu Hotel in Upperhill, Nairobi, on Wednesday.

Various models took to the runway in a glitzy display of style and elegance that was attended by top personalities in Kenya’s fashion and entertainment industries. Guests took in designs from Ian Omondi and Brian Mathews of Taisere Design, Carol Oyugi of House Korasewn and Hellen Githinji from G_ by Githinji in a two-hour display.

With Kenya’s fashion industry being one of the most vibrant in Africa, the Oppo Fashion Night was established to showcase how mobile technology has enabled the fashion industry to break new ground in regards to designs, job creation, marketing opportunities and influencing popular culture.
A prime example of how mobile technology has impacted fashion is the heightened use if social media platform Instagram which has greatly enhanced the popularity of fashion influencers like Diana Opoti and Joy Kendi

“This is a great opportunity to work with a company like Oppo because it is my first corporate collaboration. I’m excited that they believed in me. It’s also fantastic for the fashion industry because it shows it is growing and the opportunities are endless. We usually just have stand-alone fashion shows but to combine a show with a phone launch says a lot. My inspiration comes from literally anything-be it a picture, a vision or even a phone- I get influenced by what is around us,” said Githinji.

With the new Oppo F3 Black Limited Edition offering a new direction in regards to style, Oppo is banking on the device to help them make inroads in the premium smartphone segment. The designs on the runway were heavily inspired by the device’s matte black colour, sleek curved design and cutting edge technology. The creations also represent Oppo’s vision of being trendsetters and being at the forefront of technology and lifestyle industries.

“This show is more than just launching the Oppo F3 Black Limited Edition. We are giving new designers the opportunity to show the world what they are capable in a very competitive industry. Today’s event mirrors the same philosophy that we take with our products which is being edgy, stylish and catering to various tastes. The matte black colour is in response to our users varied lifestyles and fashion preferences,” said Oppo Mobile Kenya Brand Director Jessie Wu.

The new version, which will be available at authorised resellers, comes with a pre-installed screen protector, jelly case, fingerprint reader, a 16 megapixel front camera and a two years official warranty for added value and protection. The F3’s 16MP lens creates high quality selfie plus an 8MP lens for wide angle group selfies. With both lenses working in tandem, users are guaranteed a new level of selfie experience in the modern and social lifestyle.

It also possesses other leading design features including the ColorOS 3.0 operating system, thin body design with 6-inch screen dual-slot card tray and an octa-core processor backed by 4GB RAM. A 4,000mAh built-in battery gives the F3 and endurance of more than 17 hours. It will retail for Sh32,990.

DStv Viewers To Get A Glimpse Of What It's Like Being Bonang

This July, after years of anticipation, Africa is finally getting a glimpse into the life of Bonang Matheba, one of Africa’s most sought after media personalities. The multi-award winning South African is widely regarded as one of the most elusive superstars around.

Bonang Matheba

For the longest time, fans have yearned for a deeper look into the life of the 30-year-old woman they so much adore, and now Vuzu Amp is giving her admirers an exclusive look into her exciting life in the reality series Being Bonang. The show will feature Bonang in her day-to-day business interactions alongside manager Jay Badza, snippets of her romance with AKA, her very close bond with her mom, the interwoven and often exhilarating relationship with her cousin Tebogo “Pinky Girl” Mekgwe and good times with her friend Lorna Maseko.

The production will also highlight how the now, more well-rounded, more successful Bonang has transcended beyond her ‘it girl’ status, with a successful radio show, massive public persona and thriving emceeing career.

Bonang, a former host of The Front Row radio show on SABC's Metro FM, is finally at a point in her life where she’s comfortable to give her fans a glimpse of what they’ve been so eagerly anticipating. Viewers will see her outright versatility: juggling business success with family, romance, and all out stardom, and for the first time, DStv customers will get to see Bonang the daughter, entrepreneur, lover and confidant.

Among the awards she has won during her career includes Glamour Awards, New African Woman Magazine, You Spectacular, Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards, SA Style Awards and Channel 24 Social Media Awards.

Being Bonang is on Vuzu Amp every Friday at 6.30pm EAT, with a repeat on Mondays at 11.30 EAT.

Ukoo Flani's Fujo Makelele's New Solo Video A Statement

Ukoo Flani, with its roots and base in Kenya's Coastal city of Mombasa, is one of the country's pioneers of radical hip-hop music. Over the years, the group has had close ties with its Nairobi (faction) Mau Mau, another pioneering hip-hop outfit based in Dandora estate.

Ukoo Flani

One name that stands out among the many members of Ukoo Flani is Fujo Makelele. He is among the founding members of the hardcore hip-hop group. Among other members are Nguchi P, Chiznbrain, Alai Kenti, Sharama, P.O.P, Lavosti and Cannibal. Some of their most popular hits includes Burn Dem and Hip Hop Halisi ft Nazizi.

However, Makelele has remained heavily an underground artiste for the longest time, even after releasing a debut solo album titled Hip Hop Revolution, seven years ago. The album took him to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, where he stayed at the TMK Halisi Camp. This saw him work with some of Tanzania's best hip-hop artistes such as Juma Nature, BK, Bob Q and Daz Baba.

The rap guru has just released a solo video for his single Niko Juu Top. In the video, the rapper is out to make an announcement that he is still in the game of rap. He insists that a lot of people might claim that he's lost it, but according to him, he's very much at the top of his act.

The video was produced by szemvideo, but the question is, is Fujo Makelele finally coming out of the cocoon?

Fujo Makelele

Watch it here: