The 2024 Kenya edition of Red Bull Dance Your Style - the biggest urban street dance competition in the world, came to a close at a hotly contested finals event over the past weekend in Nairobi (10 August 2024).

Samuel Brian of The Legitz emerged winner after a final battle with first runner up Pessa Vanessa to become Kenya’s ultimate winner.

The event held at SK8city Diamond Plaza II, drew a full house with the audience composed of members of Kenya’s thriving dance community; from dance groups, choreographers to influencers, alongside media and fans of urban dance who came to witness the spectacle. 

Soon after being crowned Kenya’s urban dance champ Samuel Brian of The Legitz shared, “The competition was not just epic but it exceeded all my expectations. Reaching this point [and my win] highlights the immense talent in Kenya’s dance industry and I applaud Red Bull Dance Your Style for setting the standard with every edition.” He also advised aspiring dancers to stay committed to their faith and keep practicing diligently, adding, “There is no other way to succeed.”

This year’s edition of the competition launched in March in an event that featured international Red Bull dancer and world champion Stalamuerte from Switzerland.

After this, a series of epic battles followed the competition on a nationwide tour across the Kenyan top cities of Eldoret, Mombasa, Kisumu and Nairobi for the search of the most talented urban street dancer.

The search culminated in the national finals event held last weekend which brought to the dance floor top winners and selected wild cards from past qualifier events and online auditions.

51 countries will be participating in the world finals happening in Mumbai, India (9 November 2024) where Samuel Brian will represent Kenya for a chance to become the global winner of Red Bull Dance Your Style 2024.

Red Bull Dance Your Style is a unique competition with no judges other than the spectating crowd, who decide who wins by voting for their favorite dancers by holding up blue or red placards to choose a winner, after each battle.

Dancers bring their authenticity, attitude and creativity alongside freestyle and musical skills in the competition that allows all urban dance styles except for break dancing and has the DJ playing unpredictable music. 

Following two highly successful Uganda- Kenya tourism conferences held in the coastal towns of Mombasa and Diani, the third edition is now set to take place in Kampala, Uganda, this November.

The first Uganda –Kenya Coast Tourism Conference was held on November 17, 2022, at Pride Inn Hotel in Mombasa, and the second Conference took place from November 13- 14, 2023 in Diani, Kwale County.

The third Uganda-Kenya Coast Tourism Conference is set to take place at the prestigious Speke Resort and Convention Center in Munyonyo, Kampala on November 20 – 21.

On Tuesday, the Uganda government launched a campaign to attract at least 500 Kenyan tourism stakeholders and investors to attend this year’s event.

The campaign was officially launched by the Uganda Consul General at the Kenyan Coast, Ambassador Paul Mukumbya, alongside key tourism stakeholders from both nations in Mombasa.

Speaking at the launch, Ambassador Mukumbya highlighted Uganda's strong commitment to strengthening tourism ties with Kenya.

"This year's venue reflects how seriously we in Uganda take the Kenyan market," Mukumbya stated, urging all tourism stakeholders to register for the event.

He noted that the registration portal had already seen over 300 registrations, with expectations of reaching the 500-participant limit soon.

The conference aims to build on the successes of previous editions held in Mombasa and Diani, which have played a crucial role in enhancing cross-border tourism and trade between the two countries.

"In the past, diplomats used to engage in political diplomacy. However, we are now focusing on what we call economic and commercial diplomacy, which can only be done physically when you are on the ground,” said Mukumbya.

He said Kenya is Uganda’s number one source market for tourists, and Uganda is Kenya’s second biggest tourism source market.

In 2023, over 490,000 Kenyans visited Uganda, whereas 201,620 Ugandans visited Kenya.

"There is an opportunity to grow these numbers if the two countries work together,” said Mukumbya.

Dr Sam Ikwaye, the Executive Director of the Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers (KAHC), emphasized the importance of fostering trust and collaboration among tourism stakeholders, noting the positive impact of familiarization trips and business-to-business engagements facilitated by the conference.

 "The confidence levels among stakeholders have risen, enabling Kenyan and Ugandan operators to develop and exchange tourism packages effectively," he said.

He said tourism opens up the doors for many other economic activities.

“We are hoping that many more Kenyans, many more hoteliers, the county governments are going to support by sending huge delegations to Uganda in November to be able to participate in this conference and share knowledge, share experiences. Truth is there's so much to learn amongst ourselves,” said Ikwaye.

Gertrude Shuwe, the Tourism County Executive Committee (CEC) member from Taita Taveta, highlighted the unique attractions of Taita Taveta County.

She encouraged Ugandan tourists to explore the region's hidden treasures, including battlefield tourism sites and the Big Five in the Tsavo National Park.

“We have so much more to offer beyond the beaches," Shuwe said, underscoring the potential for cross-border tourism to drive economic growth and job creation.

In addition to tourism promotion, the Uganda Consulate in Mombasa is organizing a trade and investment mission to Uganda early next year.

This initiative aims to attract Kenyan businesspeople and manufacturers to explore opportunities in Uganda, further strengthening the economic ties between the two nations.

In a bid to expand it's goal of youth transformation and empowerment, the Swahilipot Hub has launched a new radio station dedicated to the youth.

The launch of the station based at the Imaara building coincided with the International youth celebration.

According to the Head of partnership and resource mobilisation at Swahilipot Hub Rukia Jamal the station will also act as a source of income for the Swahilipot hub.

"Our staff will mainly be youth, as you are aware our main goal as Swahilipot has always been to create opportunities and also empower our youth." said Rukia.

Adding "Apart from that, we also want to have this as our source of revenue for the hub."

The official opening was graced by first daughter Charlene Ruto and the C.E.O national youth council Margaret Kiogora.

The new radio station will be broadcasting in Swahili and English.

Swahilipot Fm broadcasts on 91.7 Frequency Modulation (FM) in Mombasa, Malindi, Kwale, Kilifi and Tana River. Taita Taveta 91.5 fm and Lamu 91.9 fm.

Mombasa County is set to host this year's International Youth Day celebrations.

The event which will include several activities is set for Monday, 12th, at the Swahili pot hub.

This year, activities are centered around five critical pillars: Climate Action, Agriculture, Health, Governance, and the Creative Industry.

These pillars represent areas where the youth will significantly contribute to national development and global progress.

Throughout these events, the aim is to engage and impact over 5000 youth, including the International Youth Day celebration, fostering a generation of informed, active, and empowered individuals.

In addition to various activities, policy briefs addressing the five pillars will be launched during the International Youth Day celebration.

The event is expected to be presided by Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, Principal Secretary Youth Affairs and Creative Economy, Ismail Maalim Madey, First Daughter Charlene Ruto among other guests.

“ In alignment with the International Youth Day theme, we recognize the transformative power of digital technology in advancing these pillars. Digital tools have always acted as an enabler to innovate, connect, and lead efforts that drive sustainable development across these critical areas." said Principal Secretary Youth Affairs and Creative Economy, Ismail Maalim Madey.

Adding "We are cognisant that the future of our Nation lies in the hands of the Youth. Their energy, innovation, and determination will definitely shape the trajectory of our Country. Therefore, it is our duty, as enablers, to provide them with the platforms and opportunities, that they need to succeed.” 

On her part the National Youth Council Kenya C.E.O Margaret Kiogora stated " “I am also pleased to announce that during the International Youth Day celebrations in Mombasa, we will be launching comprehensive policy briefs, focused on Climate Action, Agriculture, Health, Governance, and the Creative Industry. These policy briefs have been developed in consultation with Youth leaders, experts, and stakeholders, regionally. They will outline actionable strategies and recommendations to support Youth involvement and leadership in the various stated pillars."

Among the activities set for the day includes a walk from the famous Pembe za Ndovu to the venue of the event Swahilipot hub, official opening of a youth radio station Swahilipot fm and a music concert at the Mama Ngina Waterfront.

The theme for this year’s IYD is ‘From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,’ which resonates with the Digital Superhighway Pillar of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) under the Kenya Kwanza Plan (2022-2027).

 Kenyan entertainer Remcy Don has released his latest single, "Ai We Mama," celebrating the beauty and essence of African women. The track, produced by Young Joh, mixed and mastered by Richy Chai, comes with vibrant visuals shot by renowned video director Jijo Drumbeats.

Watch “Ai We Mama” on YouTube Here: https://youtu.be/chgYsUh7g0I 

About Remcy Don

Remcy Don is a multifaceted Kenyan artist, known for his work as a musician, content creator, and businessman. His musical journey began in 2013 as a Mugithi songwriter and singer. However, financial constraints forced him to temporarily leave the music scene. In 2021, a by chance encounter reignited his passion when someone noted his resemblance to US mega-star Jason Derulo. This encounter propelled him into the spotlight, and by 2022, Remcy Don had released his first official music video.

In 2023, he gained significant popularity on social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, by creating content as Jason Derulo's doppelgänger. Remcy Don has collaborated with notable Kenyan artists such as Stevo Simple Boy and Rekles, formerly of the Gengetone group Ethic. He approaches music both as a passion and a business, with dream collaborations including Jason Derulo and Alikiba

About the Song "Ai We Mama"

"Ai We Mama" is an ode to African women, highlighting their unique beauty, body shapes, skin tones, and vibrant spirits. The song's afrobeat tempo and catchy lyrics aim to celebrate all African women across the continent. The song is no doubt going to be a hit both on the dance floor and in listeners' hearts.

As we approach the first anniversary of his debut album ‘The Evil Genius’, GRAMMY® Award winner MR EAZI is thrilled to unveil the music video for “PANADOL”.

The single is inspired by how men brag about their love lives, thinking they're in control, while the woman actually holds all the power and pulls the strings.

Directed by Mollana Burke, JM Films and shot in London, the video brings the track’s themes of pleasure and ease to life with vibrant visuals and a playful narrative.

It showcases this cheekiness and lightheartedness playfully and stylishly. 

Recorded in Ouidah, Benin, and produced by Type A, Mr Eazi’s smooth vocals and infectious melodies capture the essence of finding relief in love and music, much like the soothing effects of the pain reliever Panadol.

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR 'PANADOL'

With over 100 million streams, ‘The Evil Genius’ has been celebrated by Forbes, The New York Times, Billboard, Rolling Stone, The FADER, Complex, CNN, The Guardian, and Music Week.

Fans can anticipate more exciting releases from Mr Eazi, including new singles and a surprise EP before year-end. Beyond music, he remains committed to his philanthropic efforts, focusing on supporting young creatives and entrepreneurs.

By Wojtek Piorko, managing director for Africa at Vertiv

There’s no doubt, across any industry, that Artificial intelligence (AI) is here, and it is here to stay.

The use cases for AI are virtually limitless, from breakthroughs in medicine and enhanced farming techniques, to high-accuracy fraud prevention and personalised education.

It is heartening to see that there is opportunity for great development within Africa.

In fact, a paper published in late 2023 by Access Partnership stated that AI is already being used with significant effect in Africa, to help address challenges such as predicting natural disasters, like floods and earthquakes, as well as in the protection of endangered species on the continent, improving food security, and improving maternal health outcomes.

The paper notes that a preliminary assessment by Access Partnership estimates that AI applications could support up to USD136 billion worth of economic benefits for just four sub-Saharan countries (Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa) by 2030, based on current growth rates and scope of analysis.

‘To put this in perspective, this figure is higher than Kenya’s current GDP and represents 12.7% of the 2022 GDP for these four economies,’ it says.

Making the Move to High-Density

AI is already transforming people’s everyday lives, with local use of technology like ChatGPT, virtual assistants, navigation apps and chatbots on the upswing.

And, just as it is transforming every single industry, it is also beginning to fundamentally change data centre infrastructure, driving significant changes in how high-performance computing (HPC) is powered and cooled.

To put this into perspective, consider the fact that a typical IT rack used to run workloads from five to 10 kilowatts (kW), and racks running loads higher than 20 kW were considered as high-density.

AI-chips, however, can require around five times as much power and five times as much cooling capacity[1] in the same space as a traditional server. So, we’re now seeing rack densities of 40 kW per rack, and even more than 100 kW in some instances.

This will require extensive capacity increases across the entire power train; from the grid to chips in each rack.

It also means that, due to traditional cooling methods not being able to handle the heat generated by GPUs running AI calculations, the introduction of liquid-cooling technologies into the data centre white space, and eventually the enterprise server room, will be a requirement for most deployments.

Investments to upgrade the infrastructure needed to both power and cool AI hardware are substantial, and navigating these new design challenges is critical.

The transition will not happen quickly: data centre and server room designers must look for ways to make power and cooling infrastructure future-ready, with considerations for the future growth of their workloads.

Getting enough power to each rack requires upgrades from the grid to the rack. In the white space specifically, this likely means high amperage busway and high-density rack PDUs.

To reject the massive amount of heat generated by hardware running AI workloads, two liquid cooling technologies are emerging as primary options:

 1. Direct-to-chip liquid cooling: Cold plates sit atop the heat-generating components (usually chips such as CPUs and GPUs) to draw off heat.

Pumped single-phase or two-phase fluid draws off heat from the cold plates to send it out of the data centre, exchanging heat but not fluids with the chip. This can remove between 70 to 75 percent of the heat generated by equipment in the rack, leaving 25 to 30 percent to be removed by air-cooling systems.

2. Rear-door heat exchangers: Passive or active heat exchangers replace the rear door of the IT rack with heat exchanging coils, through which fluid absorbs heat produced in the rack. These systems are often combined with other cooling systems as either a strategy to maintain room neutrality, or as part of a transitional design starting the journey into liquid cooling.

While direct-to-chip liquid cooling offers significantly higher density cooling capacity than air, it is important to note that there is still excess heat that the cold plates cannot capture.

This heat will be rejected into the data room unless it is contained and removed through other means such as rear-door heat exchangers or room air cooling.

Supporting the Higher Power and Cooling Requirements of AI

Because power and cooling are becoming such integral parts of IT solution design in the data room, we’re seeing a blurring of the borders between IT and facilities teams, something that can add complexity when it comes to design, deployment and operation.

Thus, partnerships and full-solution expertise rank as top requirements for smooth transitions to higher densities. 

To simplify this shift, Vertiv recently introduced the new Vertiv 360AI portfolio to EMEA and boost customers’ AI plans.

These solutions provide a streamlined approach for scalable AI infrastructure, addressing the evolving challenges posed by high-performance computing.

Vertiv™ 360AI is designed to help accelerate retrofits of air-cooled edge and enterprise data centres, as well as the development of hyperscale greenfield projects.”

Vertiv™ 360AI also features prefabricated modular solutions to enable customers to deploy AI without disturbing existing workloads and without consuming floorspace. Initial Vertiv 360AI solutions can power and cool over 130kW per rack, and include designs optimised for retrofits.