Ommy Dallah
After Lava Lava, Susumila Set To Release Collabo With Mbosso
After a first very successful collabo with Wasafi's Lava Lava 'Warembo' which currently enjoys over 1 million views on you tube, popular Mombasa artist, Susumila has returned to the label (Wasafi) for another collabo.
Susumila is now set to release his new collabo with Mbosso.
The audio of the new song has been produced in Tanzania by producer Moko genius with the video expected to be shot in Mombasa.
Just like the previous song 'Warembo', this new song has also been sponsored by Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho.
"Just can’t wait for you to listen to this one...Susumila X Mbosso...Wasafi X 001 Music ???Sultan kwa hii God Bless You my Governor" posted Susumila.
Lamu Leaders Push For Locals To Get More Jobs At The Lamu Port
A section of leaders from Lamu County have called on the government to make sure that youths from the county are given priority when it comes to employement at the Lamu port.
The leaders mainly county assembly members (MCAs) argue that it will only be fair if the youths from the area benefit directly from the project.
"It's our resources that have been used in this project including land so it will only be fair if we als benefit from it" said nominated MCA Amina Kale.
On his part Faza MCA Fahad Dini called on the government to stick to their promise of providing jobs to 1,000 youths from the county arguing that the number of those who have so far been employed have not reached 1,000.
"When the President comes here to officially open the port let him also flag off the jobs and empowerment for our youths. We also want the managing director (MD) of this port to be from Lamu" said Kiunga MCA Abdallah Babadi.
Early this month, President Kenyatta visited the port and announced that the first berth of the new Lamu Port will be opened in October.
The President who expressed satisfaction with the progress of the ongoing construction works at the seaport said the mega project would create the much-needed jobs for Kenyan youth.
"Since I was here last year, it is true you have worked hard. Very soon, next month, we will be here to open the first berth which I am told you will have completed," said president Kenyatta.
Adding ""We will launch by seeing a ship dock here to offload cargo. Offloading of cargo will be the beginning of jobs not just for you alone but also for the youth of Lamu and the entire Kenya".
KPA Procurement Officer Transferred As DCI Probes Officials Over Graft
Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) procurement officer Noran Mugambi has been moved to the dock yard section.
According to internal sources this is the first reshuffle made by KPA Procurement and Supplies Manager Aza Drenge since he was promoted to take over from Anthony Nyamancha.
Noran, who is younger sister to the former KPA Principal Personnel officer Mureithi Mugambi, is among employees under investigation by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission [EACC].
Other KPA employees under the anti corruption radar are former procurement manager Yobesh Oyaro who was the first victim of the reshuffle and he is currently head of strategy at Kisumu port Inland Container Depot.
Nyamancha, who took over from Yobesh who has been transferred to head liaison markets in Kampala, Uganda which is perceived as a demotion, is also on the list of those being investigated by the anti corruption office.
Michael Sangoro who has been head of contracts and conveyancing is also in the list of those under investigation by the anti-corruption body.
Also in the list of 18 KPA officers under investigation is KPA head of conventional Cargo Engineer Flex Ongwem.
Kenya To Leverage On Strategic Partnerships To Advance The “silicon savannah”, Fast-Track Attainment Of The SDGs
The Government of Kenya has signed a Communique with the Center for Effective Global Action (CEGA) at the University of California, Berkeley, along with The Rockefeller Foundation, and the United Nations to inspire future action and support for the delivery of Kenya’s Big Four agenda.
The agreement brings together strategic partnerships work with the Government of Kenya to build SDG focused partnerships to drive financing and innovations that help tackle complex development goals.
The Government of Kenya also announced the launch of a co-created SDG Accelerator Lab, that will leverage on the recently initiated UNDP Accelerator Lab Network, as a strategic development platform for Kenya that will bring together the government, private sector, civil society, philanthropy, academia, and young people to reimagine development for the 21st century.
Speaking during the signing event, ICT CS Joseph Mucheru stated t“As a government, we recognize that innovation and technology will be at the heart of job creation, the manufacturing industry, guaranteeing food security for the country and ensuring universal"
Adding "The partnerships signed today will harness the ongoing initiatives in our tech community to accelerate the actualization of our National Development goals”.
At the heart of the Lab is to re-imagine how development work is done, promoting a culture of innovation and experimentation.
The capacity to adapt in a rapidly changing environment will become key for the UN to stay relevant and provide effective support to Kenya to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
"We are excited to be part of this journey, and look forward to advancing Kenya’s strategies and partnerships to achieve the Kenya Big Four Agenda,” said Christine Heenan, Senior Vice President for Global Policy and Advocacy, The Rockefeller Foundation.
Tapping into the UNDP Accelerator Labs network, the Kenya SDGs Accelerator Lab aims to leverage and advance knowledge and learning from others through the global network and enrich developmental thinking and implementation through exploration and experimentation of multiple possible ideas and find contextualised solutions that can be deployed rapidly and sustainably.
“How development actors respond to the fast-changing realities of the 21 Century will be based on the ability to harness homegrown solutions and formation of strategic partnerships from global to grassroots levels, that guarantee endless possibilities of ideas and multiplicity of solutions" said Ahunna Eziakonwa, UNDP Assistant Administrator and Regional Director for Africa.
She added "UNDP Accelerator Labs initiative is one such vehicle that can potentially help to align strategic partnerships with emerging innovations.”
In collaboration with local actors including the Private Sector and the Academia, the SDGs Accelerator Lab will endeavour in identifying and harnessing homegrown solutions that have proof of concept, with the aim of bringing them to scale, while creating an enabling environment for young innovators to conceptualise, test and deliver interventions that best work for their communities .
“We are delighted by this opportunity to inspire positive social change in Kenya by supporting the Lab with rigorous research and connecting partners to our Silicon Valley enterprise ecosystem,” said Carson Christiano, Executive Director, Center for Effective Global Action (CEGA), University of California, Berkeley
Together with the Government of Kenya through the Ministry of ICT, the SDGs Accelerator will build on and complement government led initiatives such as the Ajira Program, Digitalent Innovation Program, the Whitebox Platform and harness the power of tech-innovation to empower youth in becoming solution oriented and employment creators; focusing on women, youth, vulnerable and marginalized groups, underpinning the ambition of the SDGs and the 2030 Agenda.
UN Resident Coordinator to Kenya Siddharth Chatterjee noted “as the UN in Kenya we strongly believe in the power of partnerships and stand ready to deliver as one our finest support to making the SDG Accelerator Lab a ground-breaking success.”
Serro Releases Twin Videos For Viral Song 'Kasyoki Wa Mitumba'
Multi-talented singer and one of Kenya’s best live performers - SERRO releases twin videos for her viral single 'Kasyoki wa Mitumba' , a witty love song dedicated to her love interest Kasyoki, a clothes seller.
The release comes after a clip of SERRO performing a raw acoustic version of the song went viral garnering over 200,000 views across her social media platforms.
The clip elicited exciting reactions from Kenyans including Churchill, Bien of Sauti Sol and veteran presenter FredObachi Machokaa, who all shared the clip and applauded SERRO’s songwriting, vocals and guitar playing skills.
Both versions of the song were produced by Mutoriah of Me & My Cousin Entertainment and videos shot by renowned director Johnson Kyalo.
Watch “Kasyoki wa Mitumba” Videos: http://bit.ly/KasyokiTwinVideos
Buy/Download “Kasyoki wa Mitumba” Audios: http://bit.ly/2mlL6ZI
Speaking on the release, SERRO says, “I’ve always wanted to write a song inspired by Kamba pop but it had to be not too serious, so I decided to go with a cheeky love story. When people listen to this song, I hope it will make them smile, maybe leave them in stitches, and remind them of that special someone.”
In the first version, SERRO borrows heavily from Kamba Benga – a genre that is synonymous with fast-paced rhythmic beat and bouncy finger-picking guitar sounds, to create an infectiously danceable track.
Its video incorporates a comical script that sees SERRO stalk and seek attention from Kasyoki, who seems unbothered at first before finally giving in to her advances. The video which was shot at Toi Market in Nairobi also features dancing cameos by traders from the market.
In the mellow version, SERRO turns the rather upbeat song into a slow tempo romantic tune with a soothing guitar line. Its minimalistic video focuses on SERRO dressed in African-themed attire, serenading lovers while playing an acoustic guitar under a spotlight.
“Kasyoki Wa Mutumba” is SERRO’s second release in 2019, following the release of “Ya Dunia” in May, and the 4th single off her soon to be released album “KUWE”- a collaborative project with the young musical genius - Mutoriah.
EPZ Workers Re-Apply For Jobs After Union And Management Resolve to Re-Open Company
![Tailors and Textile Workers Union [TTWU] General Secretary Joel Chebii explaining a point during a media briefing at Simba Apparel Export Processing Zone (EPZ) offices in Changamwe constituency, Mombasa county, He was accompanied by the company managing director Thomas Puthoor (right). The 2,000 sacked workers at the factory were urged to re-apply for their jobs after being accused of taking part in an illegal strike.](/media/k2/items/cache/da9a8cddd3279727df22914d9bc8b003_Generic.jpg)
The over 2,000 sacked workers of Simba Apparel Export Processing Zone (EPZ) Ltd have been forced to re-apply for their jobs.
The decision was reached after Tailors and Textile Workers Union [TTWU] and the factory management reached an agreement to open the premises to continue with operations.
This was after the signing of a return to work formula between TTWU officials and the management of the factory which is binding according to labor laws
"The move is the only way to handle disputes which is the practice worldwide," they said.
Last week the workers were engaged in an illegal strike which led to the sacking of almost 2,000 workers and the closure of the factory.
The move prompted the TTWU] General Secretary Joel Chebii to pitch tent at the coastal city after the factory Managing Director Thomas Puthoor sacked the workers after the management resolved to close down the factory.
Chebii acknowledged the blame was with the conduct of the workers who participated in an illegal strike.
He told journalists according to his records the one week strike of the union workers was illegal.
"I am in agreement with the management that the ring leaders of the illegal strike should not be re-employed as a lesson to others," he pointed out
The TTWU General Secretary assured his members that those will be re-employed won’t lose the benefits for the years they had served. .
Chebii who flanked by union national officials said the strike which lasted for a week at the factory is something which he has never witnessed since the inception of the trade union.
He echoed the sentiments by Puthoor who claimed the illegal strike was as a result of forces from outside who’s intention was to damage the factory's reputation.
"These are individuals out to damage the factory's reputation," he pointed out.
The TTWU boss said they are bound by the laws and regulations which must be followed to the letter for the good of both parties.
Chebii told journalists he has no issues with the company management insisting that if there was any issue with the employers it could have emanated from his office.
He refuted claims the union branch elections had something to do with the EPZ workers' strike saying the union elections are not yet due.
"Those striking employees who are unwilling to resume work within the stipulated time frame will have automatically sacked themselves," he cautioned.
The TTWU General Secretary accused the workers of using a foolish approach in the dispute with the management of the factory.
On his part, Puthoor told journalists at the joint media briefing the workers who took part in the illegal strike were never justified according to the labour laws.
He pointed an accusing finger at the workers for trying to blackmail the management of the factory without following the laid down labour laws and regulations.
‘’For a week the company lost Sh 50 million due to the illegal strike and this might scare away investors from the country," he pointed out.
Feud Escalates As Diamond Calls Harmonize A Traitor For Leaving WCB
It seems the move by Harmonize to leave Wasafi records (WCB) and form his own gang Konde gang did not go down well with his former boss Diamond Platnumz.
Last night during his show in Iringa town Tanzania, Diamond threw a jab at Harmonize calling him a traitor.
"Raisi pekee ambaye wananchi wamemchagua, nishasalitiwa na jeshi wakashindwa kunipindua "I'm the only president chosen by the people, i was betrayed by an army but they failed to topple me" said Diamond.
If you happen to be a follower of Harmonize on his social media pages you will realize that he uses the phrase 'Jeshi' also referring to his gang.
This is not the first time Diamond is attacking Harmonize while on stage, during a performance in an undated video which was also shared on Instagram last month, Diamond is heard attacking Harmonize.
“Siunajua wanamuziki vitabia vyao wamejawa tamaa…hasa wale, kina Harmonize, wamejawa tamaa. [“As you know musicians by nature are greedy…especially those like Harmonize, they are full of greed.”] said Diamond
Early this month Harmonize got married to his Italian girlfriend Sarah Michelotti in a secret wedding held in Daresalaam, notable among those missing were the Wasafi crew members including Diamond Platnumz. None of the members even congratulated Harmonize for the move, getting married.
Meet Uganda's 22- Year-Old Fast Rising Female Artist, Lamu
Relief For Kenyan Artists As Uhuru Signs The Copyright Amendment Bill 2019
Kenyan artists can now breathe a sigh of relief after President Uhuru Kenyatta yesterday signed the copyright amendment bill 2019.
The Copyright (Amendment) Act 2019 is aimed at addressing growing concerns about royalty rights in the country especially the collection and disbursement of fees and dues to copyright holders.
There have been concerns from artists on the disbursement of royalties from the music copyright society of kenya (MCSK).
Just last month there was an uproar from artists after MCSK sent Sh2,530 as royalty payment to each member via M-Pesa.
As a result of this, President Uhuru Kenyatta ordered the Director of Criminal Investigation (DCI) and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), to investigate the Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK).
“Na pia kwa copyrights na pia tumeona pia labda huko kuna shida, na jana mimi niliamrisha DCI na watu ya EACC waanze upelezi huko tujuwe kama kuna shida huko ya watu kama wanakula pesa ambayo siyo jasho yao. Na hiyo itafanyika na tumesama tunataka report to be made public, na kama kwa ukweli kuna watu wanakula pesa za wenzao washikwe,” said President Kenyatta.
The President, who was speaking during popular musician John Mwangi Ng’ang;a aka De' Mathew’s burial in Gatanga, Murang’a County, also noted that MCSK’s offices will be relocated.
“The ICT department will be able to know what music has been played and in which station, and ensure musicians are paid for it but the attorney General’s office which is just made up of lawyers,” he said.
Cobhams Asuquo In New Single 'More Than Pretty' - Powerful & Inspiring
Nigerian multi-talented singer, songwriter and producer Cobhams Asuquo has released a new single - MORE THAN PRETTY.
The powerful song speaks against any form of violence and is a special dedication to all women.
The up-beat tempo jam produced by Cobhams is a fusion of pop and EDM beats with such a catchy hook.
MORE THAN PRETTY is a self-love anthem with a special message for all the women not to feel pressured by the world around them and place their worth beyond looks.
Cobhams says, “Dear woman, you are worthy you are in no way the inferior sex, because there is no such thing".You are valuable by virtue of just being you. You are beautiful no matter your external appearance. You are talented. You are stronger than you think. You are capable of so much more than you know. You do deserve to be loved just as you are.”
MORE THAN PRETTY lyric video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eveLXxIiWBM
Speaking about the inspiration to writing and producing the song, Cobhams says, “This song is a reminder that contrary to what we have been made to believe, there is more to a woman than her contours, proportions and wifely potential.” Cobhams continues to make music that is entertaining and highly inspirational.
He sent a special message to his Kenyan fans saying, “I love you all and thank you for supporting not only music we can dance to but also African music that carries a strong message.”
With a wide catalogue of music, Cobhams is known for his smash hit singles including, “One Hit”, “Starlight”, “Ordinary People”, “Empty” and “Boosit” featuring Falz.
Cobhams’ name has gone on to become synonymous with world-class production and musicianship across the African continent.
Over the years, he has amassed a number of local and continental awards some of which include: Producer Of The Year (The Beatz Award, 2017), Recording of the Year (The Headies, 2014) and is a recipient of the national award for British Council’s International Young Music Entrepreneur of the Year.
Cobhams released his debut album titled “For You” in 2017. Following its critical acclaim, Cobhams is currently working on an EP and several new releases set to drop later in the year.
He says, “My next single speaks to a human condition we often find ourselves in. Its strong message will echo MORE THAN PRETTY’s and will resonate strongly with Africans, and all humans in particular. Watch out for it.”
