Good news to Genge and Bongo Fleva artists and music lovers as the Recording Academy has added three new categories for the 66th Annual Grammy Awards set for next February 

In addition, the existing categories of producer of the year, non-classical and songwriter of the year, non-classical will be moved to the general field. The general field has long consisted of four categories which have also been reffered as the Big four, they are. album, record, song of the year and best new artist. 

“The Recording Academy is proud to announce these latest category changes to our awards process,” Harvey Marson.

Adding "“These changes reflect our commitment to actively listen and respond to the feedback from our music community, accurately represent a diverse range of relevant musical genres, and stay aligned with the ever-evolving musical landscape."

According to reports, these category additions and amendments were passed at the Recording Academy’s most recent semiannual board of trustees meeting held last month.

The three new categories include:

Best African Music Performance
A track and singles category that recognizes recordings that utilize unique local expressions from across the African continent. Highlighting regional melodic, harmonic and rhythmic musical traditions, the category includes but is not limited to the Afrobeat, Afro-fusion, Afro Pop, Afrobeats, Alte, Amapiano, Bongo Flava, Genge, Kizomba, Chimurenga, High Life, Fuji, Kwassa, Ndombolo, Mapouka, Ghanaian Drill, Afro-House, South African Hip-Hop, and Ethio Jazz genres.

Best Pop Dance Recording
Recognizes tracks and singles that feature up-tempo, danceable music that follows a pop arrangement. Eligible Pop Dance recordings also feature strong rhythmic beats and significant electronic-based instruments with an emphasis on the vocal performance, melody and hooks. Dance remixes are eligible in the Best Remixed Recording Category only and may not be entered in Best Pop Dance Recording.

Best Alternative Jazz Album
This category recognizes artistic excellence in Alternative Jazz albums by individuals, duos and groups/ensembles, with or without vocals. Alternative Jazz may be defined as a genre-blending, envelope-pushing hybrid that mixes jazz (improvisation, interaction, harmony, rhythm, arrangements, composition, and style) with other genres, including R&B, Hip-Hop, Classical, Contemporary Improvisation, Experimental, Pop, Rap, Electronic/Dance music, and/or Spoken Word. It may also include the contemporary production techniques/instrumentation associated with other genres.

Emirates and Kenya Airways (KQ) have announced an interline partnership that will allow customers of both airlines access to new destinations on the two airlines’ networks within a single itinerary.

The agreement will provide customers with increased travel options as well as seamless baggage check-in to their final destination.

Emirates customers will now be able to fly to 28 destinations on the Kenya Airways network using Nairobi as the gateway to destinations such as Nampula, Bangui, Bujumbara, Kigali, Dzaoudzi, Lubumbashi, Kinshasa, Kilimanjaro, Juba, Zanzibar, among many other regional points across Africa.

Additionally, as part of a bilateral interline arrangement, Emirates passengers travelling via Dubai can also book a single ticket itinerary from or to Mombasa, one of the most popular leisure destinations in Kenya.

Similarly, Kenya Airways passengers travelling from Nairobi and Mombasa will now be able to access the Emirates’ network and seamlessly connect through Dubai to 23 destinations across West and South Asia, the Far East, the Indian Ocean and Middle East such as Singapore, Tokyo, Bangkok, Ahmedabad, Beirut, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Seoul among others.

Adnan Kazim, Chief Commercial Officer, Emirates said, “We are pleased to ink our first partnership with Kenya’s flag carrier. Kenya is a strategic gateway in our Africa network, and this new interline agreement will enhance connectivity for Emirates’ customers and provide them more travel choices across the continent.”

Adding” We look forward to deepening our relationship with Kenya Airways, offering greater network opportunities and improving connections for both of our customers.”

Speaking on the agreement Julius Thairu, Chief Commercial and Customer Officer Kenya Airways said, “This partnership will provide the ideal gateway for our customers as we seek to increase our connectivity between Africa and the Middle East through Emirates’ hub in Dubai.”

Adding” Partnerships like these are key in aviation as they take advantage of mutual scale and efficiencies to provide customers with more seamless travel options”

Tickets are available to purchase on emirates.com, online travel agents (OTAs) as well as through major travel agencies.

Emirates began operations to Kenya with the launch of flights between Nairobi and Dubai in 1995, and since then it has steadily grown the route to 14 weekly flights, having flown over 5 million passengers through the years.

Emirates is also the only airline serving Kenya with private, enclosed First Class cabins, offering premium customers a superior experience across every touchpoint of their journey.

Kenya Airways recently launched direct flights between Mombasa and Dubai offering customers 4 weekly flights.

The flight from Moi International Airport, Mombasa marked the second hub, other than its Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, that the carrier connects passengers directly to the UAE.

KQ currently operates ten weekly flights to Dubai from Nairobi using a mix of B737-800 and the Dreamliner B787-800.

By Gloria Adhiambo

Music has a unique ability to transcend barriers, evoke emotions, and bring people together.

When an iconic group like Boyz II Men graces a stage, their timeless harmonies have the power to captivate audiences and create a magical experience.

The renowned American R&B group performed in Kenya, enchanting fans with their exceptional vocal talent and leaving an indelible mark on the local music scene. This event not only showcased the enduring legacy of Boyz II Men but also highlighted Kenya's growing significance as a global entertainment destination.

Boyz II Men's performance in Kenya can be seen as a testament to the growing cultural exchange between nations. The fact that an internationally acclaimed group chose to perform in Nairobi speaks volumes about the country's burgeoning reputation as a vibrant hub for arts and culture.

Such events serve as a catalyst for promoting tourism, fostering international relations, and creating a platform for local artists to collaborate with global talents.

Boyz II Men's success lies in their ability to deliver flawless harmonies that resonate with audiences across generations. From their soulful ballads to their upbeat R&B hits, their music has stood the test of time, maintaining its relevance and emotional impact.

The group's Kenya show was a masterclass in vocal prowess, showcasing the enduring power of their voices and leaving fans spellbound.

The chemistry and stage presence of Boyz II Men further enhanced the experience, creating a connection that transcended language barriers and cultural differences.

One of the positive outcomes of Boyz II Men's show in Kenya was the exposure it provided to local artists. Opening for a globally recognized group like Boyz II Men can be a life-changing opportunity for aspiring Kenyan musicians, allowing them to gain visibility and access to a wider audience.

Such collaborations enable a cultural exchange, nurturing a sense of pride and recognition for local talent while promoting diversity in the music industry.

Beyond the immediate entertainment value, Boyz II Men's performance in Kenya holds the potential to inspire and motivate the country's youth.

Witnessing a world-class act like Boyz II Men live on stage can ignite dreams and aspirations in young hearts, showing them that with passion, dedication, and talent, they too can achieve greatness on an international scale.

The event was a source of inspiration for aspiring artists, reinforcing the belief that dreams can become reality with hard work and perseverance.

Boyz II Men's show in Kenya was an unforgettable experience that not only delighted fans but also symbolized the power of music to bring people together and bridge cultural divides.

The event underscored Kenya's growing prominence as a global entertainment destination and served as a catalyst for empowering local talent.

Beyond the enchanting melodies and soaring harmonies, the show was a testament to the universal language of music and its ability to inspire, uplift, and connect people from all walks of life.

bBoyz II Men's visit will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy in Kenya's musical landscape, inspiring future generations to pursue their artistic passions and strive for greatness.

Mombasa county plans to construct telecommunications ducts within the Central Business District.

The utility ducts will enable installation of cables without having to dig up roads within the CBD.

According to Mombasa governor Abdulswamad Nassir,  the ducts which will be shared by all providers.

"We will soon introduce a new by law, the dig once, dig smart act. As a county either on our own or with partnership we will install the internet ducts in all our roads . If a company wants to install internet or fibre they will now just plug in their cables in the ducts, no one will have to go through the hustles of digging our roads" said Nassir.

Adding " They (companies) now will be only required to obtain authorization after making necessary payments, to lay their cables in the utility ducts. They will only pay the wayleave and rental".

Addressing the media in his office, Nassir said this is among the plans that the county is intending to roll out to ensure there is order and attract investors.

Nassir noted "We want to ensure that our county remains beautiful and there is order. We are ready to work together with any individual or company that wants to beautify our county" 

King Kaka, has successfully wrapped up his highly anticipated USA Tour, which took place throughout May and June 2023.

The tour showcased King Kaka's exceptional talent and captivated audiences in four major cities: Atlanta, Dallas, Seattle, and New York.

The USA Tour marked a significant milestone in King Kaka's career, as he brought his unique blend of African music and captivating performances to international stages, further solidifying his position as a global music sensation.

Fans from all walks of life gathered to witness the artist's powerful stage presence, lyrical prowess, and infectious energy.

Kicking off the tour in Atlanta, King Kaka mesmerised the audience with his magnetic performance at Buckhead Theatre, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

From there, he continued to ignite crowds in Dallas at House of Blues, where fans sang along to his chart-topping hits and embraced the vibrant spirit of his music.

King Kaka then travelled to Seattle, where he showcased his versatility and ability to connect with audiences of diverse backgrounds.

The concert at Benaroya Hall witnessed an electrifying atmosphere as attendees were left in awe of King Kaka's dynamic stage presence and heartfelt performances.

The USA Tour's grand finale took place in the iconic city of New York, where King Kaka took the stage at Irving Plaza and delivered an unforgettable performance.

Fans from across the globe gathered to witness the musical genius in action, and they were treated to an unparalleled display of talent, showmanship, and the infectious rhythm of King Kaka's music.

The tour not only provided an opportunity for King Kaka to reach new audiences but also served as a platform for cultural exchange and celebration.

Through his music, King Kaka seamlessly merged African sounds with contemporary influences, creating a unique and globally appealing musical experience.

Commenting on the success of the USA Tour, King Kaka expressed his gratitude to the fans for their unwavering support. He stated, "Performing in the United States has been a dream come true for me. I am humbled and grateful to all the fans who came out to support and made this tour an incredible success. I will continue to strive for excellence and bring African music to the world stage."

King Kaka's USA Tour has left an indelible mark on the international music scene, further cementing his status as one of Africa's most influential and talented artists.

With his unmatched charisma and dedication to his craft, King Kaka continues to push boundaries and inspire music lovers worldwide.

One of Africa’s foremost hitmakers, teams up with afropop star Adekunle Gold, and British-Nigerian producer/artist Maleek Berry for the single “Feel Different”.

This single serves as a prelude to Reekado Banks' forthcoming album and is accompanied by an eagerly awaited music video set to premiere on June 30th.

With the Tuzi-produced track, Reekado Banks presents a delightful perspective on love, acknowledging an unexpected romance with a significant other who evokes indescribable emotions, leaving him to truly “Feel Different.”

Reekado shares on his new single and upcoming exciting projects, “It's amazing to have both Adekunle Gold and Maleek Berry on this song so it's such a big deal and it has to feel different for real. “Feel Different” is the single leading to my album release later this year, and this album is filled with loads of beautiful collaborations. We’re coming with some fire music and we will take it to the fans on the road for my UK /Europe and US tour. I’m looking forward to this new adventure. I love my job.”

“Feel Different” is an enchanting fusion of deep and emotive vocals with melodies that create an irresistibly catchy and feel-good vibe.

Revealing a raw and vulnerable side, Reekado Banks showcases his lyrical prowess with lines like, 'Love e no get no meaning to me / All of a sudden I'm feening for your love / I feel one kind way.' Adding to the tunes allure, Adekunle Gold takes centre stage during the chorus, serenading listeners with his smooth vocals as he sings, 'Girl na your love dey make me feel different / I just can't help it I no dey fit run away / Girl na your love fe make me feel different.'

And just when you thought the collaboration couldn't get any more captivating, Maleek Berry enters the scene with his signature flow, seamlessly complementing the track's infectious rhythm and elevating the collaboration to new heights.

With his unique style and delivery, Maleek Berry adds a layer of finesse that flawlessly balances the heartfelt lyrics and beats, solidifying "Feel Different" as an absolute banger. 

Over the past two years, Reekado Banks has unveiled two highly acclaimed EPs that have catapulted him to new heights, including the creation of one of the continent's most iconic songs, "Ozumba Mbadiwe."

Following the success of the "Ozumba Mbadiwe" remix featuring Fireboy DML, which garnered widespread attention and secured placements on coveted playlists worldwide, Reekado Banks is now embarking on a thrilling journey of artistic evolution with his latest offering, and forthcoming album. 

With an impressive 200 million plays and a spot on the Billboard World Music Top 10 album chart, Reekado Banks skillfully invites listeners into his world, effortlessly connecting with fans through his music and narrating his story in his own unique way.

As he delves into this exciting new era of his artistry, he continues to captivate audiences and leave an indelible mark on the music industry.

A new paper has been published which shines a light on the threat posed by pollution to children’s lung health, the authors of which hope will persuade policymakers to improve children’s healthcare and reduce air pollution.

A new study has for the first time established that children living in informal settlements (slums) are at a greater risk of developing asthma compared to their counterparts living in formal settings.

The study, christened, Tupumue, in addition, concludes that such children face a double misfortune becoming sick of asthma and lack of access to appropriate healthcare for diagnosis and or treatment.

Tupumue is a Kiswahili word meaning ‘let us breathe’ and it is a three-year collaboration between Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) and universities in the UK, led by Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM).

Prof. Graham Devereux, who led the study on behalf of LSTM said: “This is the first study to show that the 350-500 million children living in informal (slum) settlements around the world are at increased risk of developing asthma, that this is more severe and is associated with sources of indoor and outdoor air pollution.

Also, those children are less likely to be diagnosed with, and treated for, asthma.

” The study team recruited more than 2,400 children aged 5-18 from schools in two closes but very different communities in Nairobi, Kenya – one an informal settlement and the other a formal gated community. The team used scientific measures including questionnaires, lung function and air pollution tests to quantify the children’s health, wellbeing and local air quality. Dr. Hellen Meme who led the study from KEMRI said.

“The success of the Tupumue study even through the COVID-19 pandemic was as result of the study acceptability and ownership by all stakeholders, the multidisciplinary approach and a highly tenacious field team.”

Director General, KEMRI, Prof. Elijah Songok said, “KEMRI is proud to have participated in this collaborative landmark study which shows link between air quality and children’s lung health in informal settlement. These results are highly encouraging and we hope it will further persuade policymakers to improve children’s healthcare and reduce air pollution in order to scale down cases of asthma”.

Community involvement very early on, the team realised that community buy-in would be vital to the success of the study – both in recruiting children and in revealing their stories – so staff from the University of Portsmouth devised activities to sensitise local people to the presence and purpose of the study.

Academics, community members and artists came together to produce a music video, theatre, visual arts, and a puppet show – Billy’s Day Out – which dramatised the Tupumue data collection process.

Dr. Cressida Bowyer, from the university, said: “Seeing the children engage and connect with the sensitisation outputs was fantastic. Using a process of co-creation with community champions, artists and musicians played a huge part in making the campaign such a success”.

Creative methods were also employed to help uncover young people's perceptions of air quality, lung health and environmental pollution. The team used pupils’ drawn stories and videoed walking interviews to tease out stories, and even initiated participatory theatre to help explore community knowledge about what damages lungs.

Sarah West of the University of York said: "I particularly enjoyed developing the method for participatory analysis of the children's drawings… it was great to get the pupils to come up with their own themes and codes for the drawings. This gave us really rich data which provides a great complement to the quantitative data about lung health and air quality".

International recognition As well as in a published paper, the findings of the Tupumue study have been presented at the Pan African Thoracic Society/Respiratory Society of Kenya Congress in Mombasa, Kenya .

Team members joined by local community members describe the study and its findings to an international audience of respiratory clinicians and researchers into respiratory disease. The next step With more than one billion people living in slums and 500 million children at increased risk of non-communicable lung diseases is of great concern, the team hopes that its findings provide impetus for real change.

The Kenya Ports Authority has announced the suspension of payments through ledger accounts beginning July 1.

In a statement to customers, KPA said that they will start rendering services only through bank cheques and other bank payment system adding that all customers with guarantee ledger accounts will automatically convert to cheque deposits.

The statement signed by the KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto stated that the authority will cease to open and operate ledger guarantee accounts or credit accounts.

"Customers with ledger guaranteed accounts should ensure settlement of all pending or outstanding invoices before June 30. The authority will recall all guarantees with banks after June 30," said Ruto.

Ruto said that the management had noted with concern customers operating in the port with huge outstanding debts.

This he said he said had put a strain in the authority's ability to meet financial obligations.

"The authority has therefore given these customers a one month grace period to clear all outstanding debts, failure to which the comcernes customers will be denied port services and access to port facilities until the debt is cleared," Ruto said.

The MD further stated that the authority has appointed a disputes resolution team for customers with outstanding disputes.

The team he said will resolve all disputes so that customers can reguralize their accounts.

Ruto said that the dispute resolution team will be located at the KPA headquaters, Finance block second floor to resolve all the disputes.

According to a source the move was advised to arrest looting loopholes after the discovery of a syndicate within the port involving some KPA staff.

It is alleged the syndicate has been manipulating the ledger accounts that have led to increase in debts. Some staff are currently under probe.