Apple Music today announced Tems as the latest addition to its Up Next program, Apple Music's monthly artist initiative geared towards identifying, showcasing and elevating rising talent.

The artist just announced her signing to Since ’93/RCA Records, following the release of her new single, ‘Crazy Tings.’  

Tems is a dynamic songwriter and producer who is bringing a new energy to the Nigerian music scene.

The Isale Eko native boasts a blend of R&B and Soul paired with African nuances to create her unique sound.

Last year, Tems released her first EP, For Broken Ears, which was the top R&B album in 43 countries, receiving nods from artists like Brent Faiyaz, Chris Brown, Drake, and more.

Tems also appears on Drake’s newest album, Certified Lover Boy, as well as Wizkid’s standout single, ‘Essence,’ which has held the #1 position on Shazam’s Top 200 Charts. Dubbed the “song of the summer” by critics/fans, the track went #1 at Urban Radio and #1 on Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart, with a new version recently released with Justin Bieber.

Tems’ songs have been have been prominently featured on Apple Music playlists such as Afrobeats Hits, Africa Now, Top 100: Nigeria, she was deemed an Apple Music 'Africa Rising' artist, has curated exclusive guest playlists for Apple Music Africa Month and Holiday Sounds, and contributed to Apple Music’s Exclusive Original Playlist: Juneteenth 2021: Freedom Songs.

“I’m so so excited to be selected as the Apple Music Up Next artist,” says Tems. "I'm happy that i can share my story and the story of where I am from. Sending huge love to Apple Music for encouraging artists, and providing the visibility needed to impact societies on a global scale."

“Tems once told me that 'being yourself actually takes more courage than people would imagine," said Apple Music 1 host Nadeska.

"In her career that has meant ignoring opinions and pressure to compromise her music, while constantly defying expectations. Her debut EP was raw and addictive, leaving fans hungry for her next release. And no matter how her songwriting evolves, her unique and captivating vocal tone will bring her the spotlight on any original or feature record she touches.”

In her Up Next film out today, Tems shares details of her journey, growing up with a single mom in Lagos, Nigeria, being extremely introverted, and afraid to use her regular singing voice because it was too “textured.”

She also talks about getting a job right out of university because she thought she had to provide and that’s what her family wanted.

She tells Apple Music: “My decision to quit my job, that leap that I took, literally everything was just coming together. Just off ’Try Me’ alone I had a lot of shows. I couldn’t go out anymore, I couldn’t go to the supermarket anymore, I was like, 'ok something is happening.' ’Try Me’ came out of that strife, and I really wanted it to mean something, especially for Nigerians, people that live in this country, because things are hard."

Additional Up Next campaign moments include a Jimmy Kimmel Live! performance on September 29 and a sit down interview with Apple Music 1’s Nadeska, where she discusses her highlights from the last year, working with Wizkid on ‘Essence,’ as well as its remix with Justin Bieber, and the new music she has coming. 

In a move to strengthen the ODM party in Mombasa, the party has appointed Mohamed Hamid to be its new Mombasa county chairman.

The position fell vacant following the demise of the then powerful ODM Mombasa chairman Mohamed Hatimy who succumbed to what is said to be covid-19 complications in October last year.

Until his demise, Hatimy served as a nominated MCA and the chair of the finance committee in the county assembly of Mombasa.

He was replaced in the Assembly by Julius Ngugi, a staunch ODM grass-root mobilizer whose loyalty to the party paid off after serving as the party’s Nyali sub-county treasurer.

The new chairman was unveiled on Thursday in a colorful event held at their Mombasa office in Ganjoni attended by Mvita MP Abdulswamad Nassir, Badi Twalib (Jomvu), Mishi Mboko (Likoni), Mombasa Women representative Asha Mohamed and the party secretary general Geofrey Busaka among a host of other party members and officials.

Speaking shortly after being officially welcomed at the party’s office, Hamid said that his priority will be to ensure that the party regains and continues to enjoy political dominance in the county.

“Today I have held a meeting with party officials from all the sub-counties, we have a big task ahead of us to ensure that we regain our popularity in the county, plans are already underway to ensure that Mombasa remains an ODM zone,” said Hamid.

Jomvu MP Badi Twalib congratulated the new chairman reiterating that the party was intact that they were determined to paint Mombasa orange.

He further called out business man cum-politician Suleiman Shahbal to respect the party organs and structures adding that ODM as a party was democratic and was ready to accommodate anyone who wants to join.

“We will never be detracted by people who want to gain access to the party through the backdoor, the party has structures that must be respected, ODM is a party of democracy and welcomes everyone who wants to join the party and work for the people,” said Twalib.

Badi’s remarks follows what Shahbal said early this week when he attended a fundraiser event for the late mzee Manoah Obat an adamant ODM supporter in Mombasa, he hinted at opening parallel ODM offices in Mombasa.

The party is expected to host 600 delegates from the coast for a meeting at Wild Waters this Saturday to strategize on how to popularize the party across the region. Party leader Raila Odinga is expected to grace the meeting.

“Our vision is to ensure that the ideals of the people of Kenya are met through ODM, the plans are to recapture what was initially ours,” said Mvita legislature Abdulswamad Nassir.

The legislature stated that ODM won the previous general elections but were stolen, adding that if Raila was in power now, the rising cost of living and issues of historical injustices would be a thing of the past.

 “In the instance of rising fuel prices, the government has totally got it wrong, prices have to go down,” said Nassir.

Regional low-cost carrier Jambojet has commenced operations to Lamu, becoming its fourth Coastal destination after Mombasa, Malindi and Ukunda.

The airline will fly from Nairobi to Lamu via Mombasa four times weekly with an introductory fare of KES. 7100 one way from Nairobi to Lamu. Mombasa to Lamu will start at KES. 4600 one way.

 “Lamu County is undeniably one of Kenya’s top tourist destinations both for local and international travelers. With the ongoing LAPSSET project, we expect increased traffic into Lamu from tourists and potential investors. We want to ease their movement with the introduction of this route,” said Karanja Ndegwa, CEO & Managing Director, Jambojet.

Last week, the airline also commenced operations to Goma, DRC.

At the same time, Jambojet together with the Ministry of Tourism & Wildlife unveiled a new aircraft livery wrap.

The branding, which will run for a period of one year, aims at promoting the conversation around conservation of the endangered sea turtle, and the dugong, a rare sea mammal.

“This journey will enable us to build a brand association between Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) and Jambojet and thus increase the destination’s appeal to more consumers in the domestic and regional markets. The Aircraft that we shall be unveiling today will showcase Magical Kenya to all the seven local destinations that the aircraft shall be flying,” said Betty Radier, CEO KTB.

A recent report by Oxford Economics and global Travel, shows that domestic and regional travel will dominate the tourism industry in 2021 compared to international tourism. 

Many destinations are expected to maintain their international travel restrictions for a large part of the year and affordability and safety concerns are also expected to encourage closer-to-home travel.

Speaking at the event, the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife,Najib Balala noted Jambojet’s contribution to promote local and regional tourism. “I must also take this opportunity to say that Jambojet has been resourceful in the recovery journey through provision of products and services that have made both domestic and regional travel more attractive,” he said.

The Director General at Kenya Wildlife Service, Brig. John Waweru, further acknowledged the Jambojet partnership in the #NowTravelReady campaign.

“We are cognizant that the domestic Jambojet routes have key and unique KWS parks & reserves such as Lamu County that host the remarkable Kiunga Marine National Reserve. We have developed signature experiences across the KWS parks in all the Jambojet destinations to enhance the tourism product, open up the lesser visited destinations and add value to Jambojet passengers.” he said.

Jambojet, together with the County Government of Lamu, KWS, Lamu Tourism Association, and various stakeholders will embark on a 4-day discovery tour of Lamu County with the aim of showcasing the new normal of travel, while encouraging people to travel.

Juliana Cherera has been elected as the vice chairperson of the independent election and boundsries commission (IEBC).

Cherera who Prior to joining the IEBC was Chief Officer in the office of the Governor  Mombasa County was among the four new commissioners who were  appointed to the electoral body by President Uhuru Kenyatta.

http://ommydalla.co.ke/people/item/2412-mombasa-chief-officer-among-newly-appointed-iebc-commissioners

In a statement released on Wednesday morning , IEBC chairman Wafula Chebukati said Cherera was unanimously elected during a meeting.

"The commission is pleased to announce to members of the public and stakeholders that Juliana Whinge Cherera was unanimously elected as the Vice chairperson in a plenary meeting held at the Commission Boardroom on Tuesday 14th" reads the statement.

Fast rising Mombasa artist, Elijah Gogo, popularly know as K.O has just released the official tracklist for his upcoming debut Ep.

The Ep is titled 'Form Nne' and has four songs and a bonus one.

As seen on the tracklist, K.O has featured several artists in the Ep including Tundaman and Dully Sykes, both from Tanzania. Kenyan female rapper Ssaru has also been featured in the Ep.

The young talented singer who is currently on his last year (Form Four) at Shimo La Tewa Secondary School was discovered by Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho and has been making airwaves due to his music.

Some of his hit songs includes 'Kasuku' and 'Chora' ft Femi One.

In a recent interview, K.O revealed that his dream is to work with Tanzanian superstar Diamond Platnumz, and Otile Brown.

Tanzanian singer Zuchu has disclosed that she is currently single and ready to mingle.

Speaking during an interview with Wasafi Tv, the 'Nyumba Ndogo' hitmaker also shared the qualities she looks for in a man.

"I’m not dating anybody right now. I’m still single and I’m ready to mingle kwa sababu hili Swahili limenichosha jamani. Sinanga sana vigezo lakini nafeel Vibe, tuwe marafiki. Lakini pia kuna vitu ambavyo sivipendi. Lakini usiwe mchafu jamani yaani ile harufu ya Kikwapa, Miguu, Mdomo unatoa Harufu Mbaya au Kijasho hapo hapana. The rest kwenye ufupi, urefu hapo sina shida maana Mwenyezi mungu kaumba kila rika na utamu wake kwa hiyo am free" she said.

The star also took the chance to address the issue of witchcraft and visiting traditional doctors for sucess.

"Sijawahi Kwenda kwa MGANGA,…na sio kwamba mimi ni bora kuliko wengine lakinin katika Dos and Don’ts Zangu mimi nishasema Kama sita-hit na iwe basi, kwa mganga sitakanyaga. Siwezi Kuamini Nguvu wa mwanadamu mwenzangu, Mafanikiwa Yangu ni kutokana na Mwenyezi Mungu na sijawahi Kufanya Ushirikina". she said.

Just few days ago, Zuzhu revealed that she is working on her own documentary, to share her journey with fans.

"My documentary is 70% ready. Niko busy kumalizia documentaryyangu kwa muda sasa. Na niseme tu nasuburia uwepo wa maboss zangu umalizike watoe ushuhuda wao then itakua tayari kwa asmilia 100%. Humu kuna mnaisha yangu ya kabla na baada. nimeweka safari yangu mzima mpaka hapa nilipo sasa. Kwenye documentary hii naomba nishirikiane nanyi kwenye jina " she posted.

As the iconic East African Safari Classic Rally that had been scheduled for 1^st - 9^th November 2021 had to be postponed due to the prevailing COVID-19 travel restrictions which hindered many participants from jetting in to take part in the iconic rally, the organisers have launched a two-part solution.

EASCR Board of Directors Chairman Joey Ghose said despite the regrettable news of the postponement of the 2021 East African Safari Classic, the management will be rolling out a mini classic rally as a precursor to the ultimate 10th edition of the world's greatest classic rally that is set to take place on 10th – 18^th February 2022.

“This mini-classic is in line with our spirit of fulfilling our competitors’ desires as we prepare for the ultimate challenge, which shall grant free entry for competitors and observe full COVID-19 protocols”, Ghose added.

The first event, this year’s East African Safari Mini Classic will be flagged off at the Waterfront in Karen on 4^th November and terminate in Amboseli, Kajiado County, on 6^th November.

The rally will feature a maximum of 60 drivers among them two notable names in the business of Kenyan rallying. Driver Eric Bengi, 45, who has been rallying since he was 34 and competed in this year’s 2021 WRC Safari Rally, and navigator, Gatimu Mindo, who is 47 are entering the East African Safari Classic Rallies for the first time in a famous and proven Safari rally car, the Datsun 180B. 

The two events represent a considerable effort by the new owners and management of the EASCR that aims to rekindle the glory days of rallying and promote the region but with very real commitment to sustainability and conservation.

Ghose said the classic rally is committed to offsetting direct carbon emissions and will partner with REDD+ in the Chyulu Hills.  This involves forest and water conservation along with reforestation projects and the creation of value and real opportunities for local communities and the broader Kenyan society.

The rally boss said the event will involve rally drivers planting trees with selected species of indigenous trees being scattered by the drivers at each checkpoint. Over 50,000 trees will be distributed along the route.

“We recognise the significance of our beloved sport to act in this way and are proud to be in the vanguard of environmental awareness within the rallying world.  We intend to pursue the goal of net zero emissions across the event for the future to keep the sport relevant for all stakeholders and enthusiasts”, Ghose explained.

Earlier on EASCR donated Ksh 2.5 million to Kenya Wildlife Services to support the Magical Kenya Tembo Naming ceremony where it adopted 5 elephants in the event meant to celebrate and champion elephant conservation in Kenya by giving the public an opportunity to adopt and give the selected elephants unique identities.

Additionally, the rallies are partnering with For Rangers, a dedicated group of individuals who are raising money for the welfare of rangers who risk their lives daily to protect Africa’s endangered species.

This year’s rally, which is sponsored by Safaricom and Dimension Data, will be held in commemoration of Jayant Shah one of the East Africa’s most accomplished and talked about rally drivers who passed away earlier this year.

 He was a businessman by profession, humble in character, and passionate about rallying, which led him to pursue the sport from 1967. 

Shah was veteran of over 250 rallies worldwide and the only competitor to take part in all previous nine Safari Classics.

After a week-long process of an exciting time of intense work, the members of the 13-person International Jury for All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA were hosted to a private dinner by AFRIMA Patron, Dr. Bisi Onasanya (Nigeria) tagged Patron’s Dinner with the Jury, in Lagos, Nigeria on Monday, September 6, 2021.

The nominees list is expected to be released on Tuesday, September 14, 2021.

The Patron’s Dinner is an iconic event that recognizes and celebrates un-relenting support and celebrates un-relenting support and service the Jury has given to AFRIMA and the African creative industry (music, arts, culture) at large.

In his elated speech, the AFRIMA Patron, Dr. Bisi Onasanya stated, “AFRIMA has been a gracious movement supporting the creative industry and the huge population of youths in Africa. I have an insatiable and inestimable support to the work of AFRIMA. The importance of my work is to strengthening the commercial ties between AFRIMA and corporate world. I have never been a part of failure and by God’s grace and the support of my wife, I will give my all.”

The private dinner drawn an impressive member of AFRIMA International jury, Hadja Kobele (Guinea); Robert Ekukole (Cameroon); Tabu Osusa (Kenya); Zineb Seyad (Morocco); Olisa Adibua (Nigeria); Charles Tabu (Democratic Republic of Congo); AFRIMA patron, Dr. Bisi Onasanya and his wife, Mrs. Helen Omowunmi Onasanya; Representative of the African Union Commission, Allaa Zain Makky (Egypt) while other members of the Jury joined virtually.

Other guests are the Chief Executive Officer, Kennis Music, Kenny Ogungbe and Exexurive Director,Kennis TV, Idowu Ogungbe ,President and Executive Producer of AFRIMA, Mike Dada; Former Lagos State Commissioner of culture And Tourism, Steve Ayorinde; Managing Director, New Telegraph Newspaper; Mr.Ayodele Aminu, Chief EXecutive officer, Seagle Properties,Otunba Yemi Lawal as well as some of African artistes from Nigeria; Praiz, Joeboy, Aramide, Lami, among others.

In her opening address, the representative of the Head of Culture, Social Affairs Division, African Union Commission, Alaa Zain Makky (Egypt) welcomes the patron on board and AUC and the creative industry in Africa appreciate the contribution and support of the person of Dr. Bisi Onasanya.

The dinner provided the perfect opportunity for meet and greet, bonding, and networking, between the patron and members of AFRIMA International Jury representing the five regions of Africa. AFRIMA Jury’s responsibility which involves screening, categorizing, assessing, grading, and selecting the nominees into the 40 different regional and continental awarding categories from the total of 8,880 works received for 2021 awards edition.

The AFRIMA patron, Dr. Onasanya retired at the apex of the banking industry, after spending over three decades, and almost immediately went straight into his passion of many years, the real estate deveiopment and management industry.

All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, in partnership with the African Union Commission, AUC, is the ultimate recognition of African music globally.

Deputy President William Ruto son, Nick Ruto has finally responded to a video that is doing rounds on social media showing a man putting a necklace on him.

In the video, Nick is seen seated at a dinner table, a man of Asian origin is then seen taking the necklace and putting it around his neck as people who are witnessing cheer them up.

The video sparked alot of debate with some quarters suggesting that Nick is embracing gay activities and that the Man who gifted him the necklace was his lover.

In a Facebook post, Nick responded to the claims, asking Kenyans to understand the value of friendship, saying the necklace was a birthday gift.

"Build your circle and celebrate each other. If you can, gift your friends the best you can on their special occasions like Birthdays, Anniversaries, weddings e.t.c." he posted.

Adding "“This will help you understand the value of friendship and comprehend that gifting a friend of same or opposite gender does not amount to sexual/erotic relationship,”

President Uhuru Kenyatta on Thursday encouraged African youth to take up agriculture saying, the sector holds enormous potential to create jobs and spur the continent's economic transformation.

The President advised the youth to explore opportunities in areas such as agricultural technologies, on and off farm ventures, aggregation, transportation of produce and value addition among others.

“Agriculture in Africa needs these young people, and the young people should begin to see immense opportunities and benefits available in agriculture,” said the President.

The Head of State made the appeal during a virtual youth town hall meeting on the sidelines of this year’s Africa Green Revolution Forum Summit (AGRF) attended by young people from across the continent.

He encouraged players in Africa's agricultural sector to support the youth by creating an enabling environment for them to innovate solutions for identified sectoral challenges without imposing their preferences.

“We are here to listen to you and your ideas, to learn, to engage, and to receive the ideas that will guide the development of policies, programmes, and projects that better suit the aspirations of the sons and daughters of Africa,” the President said.

President Kenyatta encouraged African Governments to listen more to the youth so as to be able to create an enabling environment for young people to enter and thrive in the agricultural sector.

Through the 2018 to 2022 Kenya Youth Agri-business Strategy, the President said the Kenyan Government was progressively addressing the challenges and barriers that prevent the youth from fully participating in the country's agricultural sector.

“Some of these include: negative perception and attitude to agribusiness, limited access to financial services; inadequate skills, knowledge and information; limited access to land for agribusiness; limited access to markets; limited value addition; inadequate policies to support youth in agri-preneurship; climate change and environmental management, and other cross-cutting issues,” the President outlined.

He said his administration was keen on reversing the negative perception held by the country's youth towards agriculture through the revival of the 4-K-Clubs in all primary schools as well as the Young Farmers’ Clubs in secondary schools and tertiary institutions.

“The enthusiasm created by these clubs is encouraging young people to take advantage of agricultural opportunities, allowing them to become agribusiness owners, professionals, trainers, and mentors, along the value chains,” the President said.

The Head of State fielded questions from the youthful participants where he outlined the various initiatives implemented by the Kenyan government in support of youth participation in agriculture such as enhancing ICT connectivity, installation of cold storage and processing facilities as well as the expansion of the National electricity grid and supply of water among other interventions.

Former Ethiopian Prime Minister and current Chairman of AGRF Hailemariam Desalegn and several senior Kenyan Government officials attended the town hall meeting.