Mombasa governor aspirant Suleiman Shahbal has intensified campaigns in the race to succeed Governor Hassan Joho.

Shahbal banks on the ODM party ticket expressing confidence that he will outshine his main rival Mvita Mp Abdulswamand Nassir in the nominations.

Shahbal who defected from Jubilee party to ODM in 2021 says he will give it a third time after unsuccessfully contesting  twice. 

The businessman turn politician said Mombasa deserved better leadership. He slammed his opponents for failing to outline their plan for Mombasa county.

"We are determined that we will win the nomination ticket and eventually win Mombasa governor, it’s possible to transform Mombasa county with good leadership,” said Shahbal during a rally at Kadongo grounds.

On Tuesday, Shahbal with his 'Change must come' campaign slogan led a caravan of supporters to traverse the entire Kisauni from Kadongo grounds to Minalove,Bamburi Mwisho to Utange area.

Speaking at Kadongo grounds where both Shahbal and Bedzimba held a brief rally, they asked coastal residents to support the Azimio La Umoja presidency led by Raila Odinga ahead of the 2022 government takeover.

“Governor Joho is leading the campaigns for Raila' Odinga in Nairobi where he is expected to rally for the bigger cake for the coastal region,” said Bedzimba who is now drumming up support for Shahbal's quest to succeed Governor Hassan Joho.

"If you give me a second chance I will continue with my development record, that targets women, youth and elderly,” said Bedzimba who is seeking re-election to the Kisauni Mp through  ODM ticket.

The duo also drummed up support for the Azimio La Umoja presidential candidate Raila Odinga, stating that Odinga will transform the economy of the country.

On Wednesdy, Shahbal is expected to take his 'Change must come' campaign to Jomvu.

Kenyan youth have been asked to venture in the rich blue economy sector which has vast economic opportunities especially along the Coastal region.

According to the Mombasa governor's Youth Leadership programe in climate action sector leader Basil Muga , the blue economy sector remains fully unexploited, urging youth to take advantage of the multi-Billion sector.

“We have realized that there is huge opportunity for young people in the blue economy, the demand for fish is high but the supply is going down, because we have continued to mess with the Ocean, so we urge the youth to participate in the reservation of the Ocean if you want to really reap the benefits of the Ocean,” said Muga.

He said the Blue economy is promising for the youth from fishing, tourism, ocean science, among others but this can be achieved through protection of Oceans from pollution.

Basil noted that Mombasa is endowed with a vibrant biodiversity from land and from the ocean presenting many opportunities for development from the blue economy .

“Let us protect it so that we can increase what comes out of the ocean so that we don’t import fish, and as we do that we will also get to increase the culture of eating fish locally and we will encourage more fishers going for fishing in the sea,” added Muga.

He made the remarks during the Governor’s young leaders  youth in climate action round table meeting  which brought together over 150 youths from Mombasa and other stakeholders to deliberate on the effects and mitigation on climate change where he asked youth to actively participate in mitigating climate change.

“We have to act now because the planet is dying, if we remain with the same practice we will not have somewhere to live, even if it means joining volunteering for beach cleanups, and letting up young people getting into entrepreneurship in green businesses, “he added.

Innocent Wanyonyi from coastal marine resources development stated that a lot of implications of climate on marine environment were as a result of human activity, which is majorly pollution.

Fish populations are already declining in many regions as warming waters throw marine ecosystems into disarray, according to the report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, a group of scientists convened by the United Nations to guide world leaders in policy making.

“When sea temperatures rise, different species of marine start disappearing and we get a lot of losses especially on dependants of sea fishing,” said Wanyinyi adding that some fish species have completely been exploited because of climate change.

Climate change is heating the oceans and altering their chemistry so dramatically that it is threatening seafood supplies, fueling cyclones and floods and posing profound risks to the hundreds of millions of people living along the coasts.

 “One of the other effects of climate change is the unpredictability of ocean cycles which has affected fish count in the sea, thus denying us food and making the cost of fish very expensive,” said Wanyonyi adding that youth have a big role to play in mitigating the effects.

Mombasa is largely affected by climate change ,residents experience long heat spans above the normal tropical climate,floods and the ever rising sea level are a real threat to life in this very cosmopolitan city.

The second edition of Cultural Heritage for Inclusive Growth Symposium will take place this week (17th and 18th March 2022) at the National Museums of Kenya, Botanical Gardens in Nairobi.

A Twitter Space conversation on Cultural Heritage for Inclusive Growth will be hosted on the British Council Twitter page on Wednesday 16th March 2022 from 11 - 12 PM /  8 - 9 AM GMT. 

The hybrid symposium hosted by the British Council and Twaweza Communications will feature in-person conversations, keynote speeches, panel conversations as well as musical performances.

The sessions will also be live-streamed across the British Council’s social media platforms including YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter and recordings will be available on the same platforms thereafter.

Audiences interested in attending the 2022 Cultural Heritage for Inclusive Growth Symposium are encouraged to register below:

Join at the Nairobi National Museum: https://x8n91kbns7o.typeform.com/to/Pyv3sfGq 

Join virtually: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Uum74kmSSv-mkkpv8ccy6gto
Themed ‘Decolonization of Cultural Heritage in Africa’, this years' symposium brings together cultural practitioners, tech leaders, academics and policymakers.

The sessions and panel discussions will feature conversations on the restitution of cultural heritage in Africa, community engagement strategies in inclusive cultural heritage, indigenous knowledge and climate change, food security, and the digitization of cultural heritage. 

Head of Arts, British Council Kenya, Sandra Chege, says, “The British Council’s work in heritage is people centred and is designed to support and amplify the work of communities as they work to safeguard their heritage for future generations.”

Adding, “The 2022 Symposium builds on the legacy of the first edition and brings together interconnected conversations on decolonisation while seeking to reclaim and reposition important narratives. The sessions bring together really dynamic voices and we hope to engage as many people as we can through this Symposium.”

The 2022 edition expounds on issues raised at the 2020 edition of the Symposium, like the role and the engagement of young people in heritage work.

Conversations on the decolonization of cultural heritage have become increasingly visible as people look for alternative approaches to creating sustainable values, food systems, heritage sites and forms of identity.

Twaweza Communications, the convenors of this Symposium, view decolonization as a continuous process of dismantling the remnants of the colonial experience within political, economic, philosophical, moral, social, spiritual, and activist contexts.

Prof Kimani Njogu, Executive Director, Twaweza Communications says, “We hope that the Symposium will inspire a community of key stakeholders as well as young emerging cultural heritage professionals and practitioners. We expect it to lead to the production of new research on cultural heritage and knowledge on gender dimensions and gaps in cultural heritage practices.”

SYMPOSIUM PROGRAM DAY 1 (16TH MARCH 2022)

11 - 12 PM: Cultural Heritage for Inclusive Growth 

Speakers: Maureen Anzaye- Kubai, Program Manager, Cultural Heritage for Inclusive Growth, British Council, Kenya and Prof. Kimani Njogu of Twaweza Communications.

Moderator: Mwĩhaki Mũragũri.

SYMPOSIUM PROGRAM DAY 2 (17TH MARCH 2022)

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Joyce Nyairo, Santuri Media. Her writing interrogates the interface between politics, identity and culture.

10 - 11 AM: Community engagement strategies for youth heritage users 

Speakers: Angela Wachuka, Book Bunk Trust and Harriet Chebet Ng’ok, Harriet Botanicals 

Moderator: Dr. Tom Odhiambo, University of Nairobi

11.30  – 12.30 PM: Design, built environment and cultural heritage

Speakers: Dr.  Romanus Opiyo, University of Nairobi, George Arrabu,  Architectural Association of Kenya and Kabage Karanja & Stella Mutegi from Cave Bureau.

Moderator: Joy Mboya, The GoDown Arts

12.45 - 1.45 PM: Digitization and online cultural heritage experience

Speakers: Michael Murungi, Google Kenya, Carolyn Mwenda, National Museums of Kenya, Edward Sigei, Kenya Copyright Board and Tayiana Chao, Africa Digital Heritage

Moderator:  Christine Mungai, Baraza Media Lab

2.45 - 3.30 PM: Musical performance by Labdi (Kenyan singer-songwriter and African single-stringed fiddle (Orutu) instrumentalist).

5 - 6 PM: Cultural Heritage, technology and Climate Change (Virtual Panel)

Speakers: Joanne Orr (Director, Living Culture Development), Hannah Fluck (Head of Environmental Strategy at Historic England), Prof. Muthoni Masinde (Central University of Technology, Free State, South Africa), and Dr. Wanjiku Ng’ang’a (University of Nairobi)

Moderator: Nikki Locke, Senior Programme Manager, Cultural Heritage for Inclusive Growth British Council, London.

SYMPOSIUM PROGRAM DAY 3 (18TH MARCH 2022)

9.15 – 10.45 AM: Restitution of cultural heritage in Africa 

Speakers: Prof. Kimani Njogu (Executive Director, Twaweza Communications), Onyekachi Wambu, AFFORD, London, Prof. George Abungu, Emeritus SG, National Museums of Kenya, Juma Ondeng’, National Museums of Kenya and Dr. Lydia Muthuma, Technical University of Kenya

Moderator: Njeri Gachihi, National Museums of Kenya

11 – 12.30 PM: Indigenous knowledge, food systems and climate change

Speakers: Judy Ogana, UNESCO, Dr. Staline Kibet, University of Nairobi and Mendi Njonjo, Hivos E.A 

Moderator: Dr. Peris Kariuki, National Museums of Kenya

12.45 – 1.45 PM: Reclaiming narratives about African languages, clothing and accessories

Speakers: Sunny Dolat, The Nest Collective, Prof. Chege Githiora, Kenyatta University 

and Kamau Kiarie, Managing Director & CEO of East African Educational Publishers.

Moderator: Dr. Mshai Mwangola, Orature Collective

2.45 - 3.30 PM: Musical Performance by Juma Tutu and the Swahili Jazz Band 

3.30 - 3.45 PM: Closing Remarks / Vote of Thanks by Professor Kimani Njogu, Twaweza Communications and Maureen Anzaye - Kubai, Program Manager, Cultural Heritage for Inclusive Growth, British Council 

Jomvu member of Parliament Badi Twalib alongside his Mvita counterpart Abdulswamand Nassir have called on law enforcers to stop unnecessary harassment of boda boda operators.

While condemning the Forest Road incident where a female motorist was assaulted, the two legislators cautioned against making innocent riders pay for the sin of others.

Twalib said there are only few bad apples in the sector which provides opportunities to thousands of young people in the country, and thus the government should not generalize the sector players as criminals.

"As a legislator, I want to ask the government to stop generalizing the whole Bodaboda sector, instead they should be helped to adhere to the law without too much force, let them be allowed to do their job and feed their families because this is a job like any other." said Twalib.

Speaking during the issuance of  National Hospital and insurance fund (NHIF) cards to over 4,000 households at his Jomvu constituency on Friday, Twalib said the boda boda operators have played a major role in the decline of crime cases in the area. 

"Here in Jomvu, cases of insecurity have declined because our bodaboda people especially in Kijiweni they have been collaborating with police whenever they detect criminals and therefore they have their own fair share of praise than condemnation." said Twalib.

On his part, Mvita Mp Abdulswamand Nassir also weighed in on the matter claiming the government is hurting small business people in the country.

"If there are criminals in the sector let them be held responsible. We are in talks will local administration, the police and NTSA to ensure how we can help them adhere to law without necessarily trying to kill the whole sector." said Nassir

Adding "We condemn what they deed but we don't want it to be a reason of putting millions of families in financial trouble."

According to Nassir who is also eyeing the Mombasa gubernatorial seat in the August elections, those involved in the heinous incident should be made to face the law.

"We ask our authorities to stop victimisation of Boda boda Operators because of one person, there is ripple effect on those dependent on this sector, so instead of condemning them we shall embrace ways of sanitizing it in a more organized way." said Nassir.

The two legislators  warned against blanket condemnation of riders in the country.

This comes days after President Uhuru Kenyatta ordered a countrywide crackdown to eliminate rogue operators.

On Thursday ODM leader Raila Odinga also warned law enforcers to stop unnecessary harassment of boda boda operators.

Rapper Khaligraph Jones treated the media to an exclusive listening session for his new album “Invisible Currency”.

The invite-only event at The Alchemist, Westlands on Wednesday 10th March played host to a few other industry stakeholders.

In Partnership with Africa’s leading streaming platform, Boomplay, Khaligraph shared in detail the journey and process of crafting the rich album.

‘Invisible Currency’ basically means that I am sharing with my fans something that cannot be replicated,”  said Jones on the release of his latest body of work.

During the session, guests had the opportunity to ask the award-winning rapper questions on the inspiration behind some of the significant songs that embodied the message and spirit of his album.

Some of the key highlights came while playing ‘Ikechukwu’ as he recounted his trip to Nigeria where he scooped the ‘Best Hip Hop Act’ at the 2020 Soundcity MVP awards to the amazement of the Nigerian hosts, who eventually christened him the name meaning ‘Power of God’.

On ‘Am on the move’ featuring Black Way, Khali opined on the continued rise of the Kenyan Hip Hop scene while giving first-hand comparison to the Ghanian industry.

Playing ‘Ateri Dala’ saw his longtime producer Vince On The Beat detail the process of fusing the Afro-Pop and Luo tinged jam as Khali broke down his longtime desire to get back to his roots through music and also the experience working with Ohangla sensation Prince Indah, who is featured on the track.

In attendance was Martha Huro, Managing Director E.ABoomplay who congratulated the rapper on his milestones,

while also encouraging emerging artists to draw inspiration from his sheer hard work and zeal.

The 17-track album also features DAX, Blackway, Adasa, Mejja, Scar Mkadinali, Xenia Mannasseh, Rudeboy and is available exclusively on Boomplay.

International advocacy organisation Global Citizen has today announced that for the fourth year of the Global Citizen Fellowship Program powered by BeyGOOD, the organisation will be expanding for the first time into Kenya.

The application period is now open, until 29th April 2022, for fifteen young people: five from Kenya, five from Nigeria and five from South Africa, aged between 21 and 25, to join the coveted paid fellowship program commencing in July 2022.

Through the program, the 15 changemakers will each engage in a paid, year-long, full-time placement aligned to one of Global Citizen’s four pillars of activity: creative, campaigns, rewards, and marketing.

Powered by BeyGOOD, the Global Citizen Fellowship Program will unearth African youth with remarkable potential.

The Global Citizen Fellowship, supported by Beyoncé’s BeyGOOD philanthropic initiative and US actor and filmmaker, Tyler Perry, aims to empower young Africans to become agents of change, and provide them with tools they need to thrive  not just during their time with Global Citizen but also in any future professional environment.

"With young people (under 25years) making up 60% of the population, Africa is reported to be the youngest continent in the world. Therefore, by investing in the development and empowerment of our youth we are securing a bright future for our continent. These are the leaders of the 21st century and beyond. We need to engage them now and we need them to play an active role in changing the African narrative. It gives me a great sense of pride to see philanthropic organisations such as BeyGOOD and humanitarians like Tyler Perry doing their part in the development of these young people." says Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Global Citizen Board Member.

Adding "I’d be even prouder to see more African organisations and humanitarians investing more money and more resources in the empowerment of these young minds. With the little that I have and the powers given to me, I always avail myself to the plight of young people. We must invest in their education and health for the sake of our continent’s wealth. Together, we can conquer these challenges and leave a better world for our young people,”.

Launched in 2019, following the success of commitments made at the Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100 in December 2018, the Fellowship is focused on Global Citizen’s vision of eliminating extreme poverty, providing young people with opportunities to gain experience working on social impact projects.
 
During the course of the year, the fellows learn how to use digital technology for social change, storytelling tactics that shift attitudes, and the process of building lasting professional relationships.

The program also aims to foster an in-depth understanding of the role that innovation plays in an ever-changing digital world.
 
Ivy McGregor, BeyGOOD, Executive Director says, “With all that is happening in our world right now, educating, empowering and employing our youth to use their voice and vocation to make a positive impact are essential to creating a lasting change."
 
Global Citizen and BeyGOOD strongly encourage applicants from minorities and underrepresented communities to apply.
 
How To Apply
 
Submit a 2 to 3 minute video or 500 to 700 word essay to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., including a copy of your ID or passport, explaining the following:

• What qualities do you identify with as a Global Citizen?
• If selected, what lasting change would you like to achieve through the program?
• What specific socio-economic issues are you taking action on and why?

Read more about the young people who have previously taken part in the Fellowship program, the issues they’re passionate about, and their experiences during the program by visiting www.globalcitizen.org/fellows.
 
“Prior to the Fellowship, I was at university trying to understand my own journey and direction following my experiences during the national #FeesMustFall campaign, where the resistance we experienced fostered self-doubt. The Fellowship journey has added to who I am right now in a sense, where I am more confident in my individual power to play my part in crafting and contributing towards something way bigger than me. Today, in describing myself, I would say that I am a thoughtful person who is conscious of their position in society and is continuously working towards empowering themselves to empower others,”  says Lonwabo Nkonzo, 2019 Global Citizen Fellowship Program
 
Darnelle Fortune, 2019 Global Citizen Fellowship Program also testifies: “The person I was prior to the Fellowship program is a lot different to who I am now, and in the best ways possible. I would describe Darnelle 2.0 as confident, assertive, and a lot more curious. I learned so much, not just from the Fellowship but from my peers as well, and it has completely changed my view of the world. I gained valuable technical skills in marketing and social media, learning how to use digital platforms as tools to create impactful social change.”

African Hip Hop ace Khaligraph Jones released his sophomore album INVISIBLE CURRENCY on Monday 7th, March 2022 exclusively on Africa’s streaming giant Boomplay.

The much anticipated masterpiece is a timely follow up to his 2018 debut album TESTIMONY 1990.

Majorly self-produced, the album was extensively recorded from 2018 across multiple locations in Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana and the US as Khaligraph toured Africa, UAE and the US after registering unprecedented post debut album success while tapping rising Kenya producers Vince on The Beat, Ares 66, Wuod Omollo to help craft the rich album.

Speaking on the album Khaligraph said ‘’This is a life changing album for me and my fans. It’s a personal testimony of my challenges and an honest attempt at the representation of my personal growth and development over the years. I hope the project inspires a lot and transforms lives’’.

The 17-track project is an engrossing exploration of Khaligraph’s sonic evolution, personal growth and artistic development drawn from a long momentous career.

The album title, INVISIBLE CURRENCY perfectly exemplifies his current status as a bonafide African star coming of age while enjoying the perks at his peak through continued dominance.

The project was released alongside ‘Hiroshima’ music video featuring highflying US Hip Hop star DAX.

The powerful and gritty collaboration shot between arid Kenya and countryside US further establishes Khaligraph as one the most prolific, lyrical and most sought after voices in African Hip Hop rooted in cinematic storytelling and unmatched flow.

The multilingual, genre-bending album stays true to Khaligraph’s style and sound heavily grounded in Hip Hop but also experimental in spirit with a more revealing side espoused in a series of dynamic compositions and collaborations across an array of sounds.

From Afro Pop jam ‘Ateri Dala’ featuring Prince Indah, RnB rich ‘How We Do’ featuring Xenia Manasseh, Genge and Kapuka tribute in ‘Kamnyweso’ with Mejja to Rhumba tinged ’Wanguvu’ featuring Ali Kiba, Khaligraph delivers delivers a compact, melodic and no holds barred project tailored for any occasion or season.

 Stream: INVINCIBLE CURRENCY

Political rivalry between Mombasa governor governor aspirants Suleiman Shahbal and Abdulswamand Nassir escalated on Tuesday after their supporter's clashed during the International women' day celebrating event held at the Tononoka grounds.

Chaos rocked the event when some rowdy youth from both sides engaged in running battles hurling stones at one another forcing the converners of the meeting to suspend speeches.

 Several youth who are supporters of the two Orange Democratic Movement ODM party politicians were arrested by Police for trying to disrupt the women's meeting organized by the Mombasa county government.

Suleiman Shahbal’s wife Rahma Shahbal who was at the function was hurriedly escorted out of the venue by her security when things got out of hand only to return to the venue later.

Normalcy resumed for a while when police were called to quell the building tension, but it erupted again when Mombasa deputy governor William Kingi attempted to deny Nassir an opportunity to address the crowd.

The deputy governor's one minute speech was cut short by heckles, and even after one of  Nassir's Supporter  unsuccessfully grabbed the microphone from Kingi.

"This is not a campaign function, and therefore we ask Nassir to keep off the meeting, we discourage you not to speak because you will cause a fight and people will be injured, let’s avoid political chaos," Kingi told Nassir.

But when Nassir took to the podium, he slammed Shahbal accusing him of having allegedly hired youth and women groups to bring violence in Tononoka.Nassir asked his supporters to remain calm and avoid chaos.

“Even if they hurl insults at us, even if they throw stones at us, we shall not respond to them, we must be peaceful people because we have a common agenda, that is to improve the lives of Mombasa people,'' said Nassir.

But Shahbal’s wife Rahma Shahbal who had earlier emphasized on good and visionary leadership that is free from insults and intimidation left the venue immediately Nassir started speaking.

"We have five months to elections, we should stop chaos, we need to show love to one another, we are expected to respect one another, as women we should be respectful, we discourage political chaos in the coming elections,'’ said Shahbal's wife.

Rahma has come out to publicly campaign for her husband who is seeking to be elected as the governor for the third time after losing two times.

“My women, I want to urge you to come out in large numbers, I know what you are going through, because I was there, I came from a very humble background, before I met my husband,” she stated.

Women leaders who took to the podium condemned the manner in which the two politician’s supporters conducted themselves in a show of political supremacy. Both Nassir and Shahbal are contesting for Mombasa county governor seat.

Shanzu ward MCA Mamuna Salim Mwawasi and nominated MCA Priscilla Mumba expressed their disappointment with the continued disrespect of women leaders. Some of the women leaders who spoke were heckled and humiliated by rival supporters.

"You have betrayed us as youth, we are perturbed by the kind of disrespect our youth have  displayed, we are encouraged to stop using our supporters to humiliate one another. This is bad and should be discouraged,” said Maimuna.  

Mumba said leaders who perpetrate chaos or instigate chaos should be voted out because they don't man good for the people," said Mumba.

Other women MCAs leaders present were Fatma Kushe (Nominated), Timbwani ward MCA Mwaka Bakari and Amriya Boy (Nominated).

"They can do nothing in our area,we are in Mvita and Mvita is where our next governor will come from,” said Mumba who is a staunch supporter of Abdulswamand Nassir .

Mombasa women rep Aisha Hussein maintained that she will be seeking reelection through an ODM ticket.

Mvita Mp Abdulswamad Nassir's mother Mama Nassim was also present during the event, she called on Nassir's rivals to brace a tough battle in the race to succeed Hassan Joho as the next Mombasa governor.

"We have not started yet, we will go everywhere, knock every door campaigning for my son Nassir" said Mama Nassim.

Businessman Suleiman Shahbal has said he does not fear any competitor in the race to succeed Governor Hassan Joho.

Shahbal is fighting it out with Mvita MP Abdulswamad Nassir and deputy governor William Kingi for the ODM ticket to vie for the county’s top seat.

Likoni Mp Mishi Mboko has condemned the molestation of a female motorist by bodaboda operators in Nairobi.

According to the vocal member of parliament it is regrettable that a woman should be subjected to such vile behaviour by a group of men in this century.

"It is the same women who you attack that gave birth to you and they thus deserve respect," she pointed out.

Mishi said the incident comes at a time when the world is celebrating the international women’s day.

She spoke during an awarding ceremony to commemorate the international women’s day 2022 held at Mama Ngina Waterfront in Mombasa county organized by Pwani Women Caucus.

The lawmaker said women play a critical role in the development of the country and they deserve respect.

She appealed to the judiciary to take severe action against the attackers so that it can be a lesson to others.

"Let them face the consequences and the court should deny them bail for embarrassing and torturing the female driver in public," she pointed out.

Mishi said the riders should serve as a warning to those who take the law into their own hands.

According to the police, over 200 boda boda riders were arrested on Monday night following the incident.

In a viral video, bodaboda operators are captured sexually assaulting the female motorist allegedly for causing an accident.

On Tuesday President Uhuru Kenyatta ordered a nationwide crackdown of all boda boda operators following the incident.

“Yesterday, I did give instructions that I have ordered a crackdown on all boda boda operators, starting here in Nairobi and moving across the country,” said Kenyatta.

He was speaking during the International Women’s Day celebrations at the Kenya School of Government in Lower Kabete, Nairobi.

Nigerian singer, songwriter and afro pop sensation – BUJU(BNXN) is set to headline the Throne Fest Concert on the 30th of April 2022 at Impala grounds. 

The Africa now - Rising Star and hit maker will be the headlining act at the event sponsored by Play Entertainment, Statepen East Entertainment and Taarija Enterprises. 

“We are thrilled to announce the first edition of Throne Fest featuring Nigerian sensation BUJU (BNXN),” said Collins Odindo,one of the event organizers. “We couldn’t have chosen a better artist than Buju for this edition.” he further added.

To Your Ears Entertainment star shot to fame with the viral hit single “Spiritual” featuring Zlatan(2019), the single skyrocketed him into the charts, earning him a nomination in the “Rookie of the Year” category at Nigeria’s HipTV Headies Awards the same year, and then a win at the City People Music Awards for “Revelation of the Year” (2020).

The Baby Giant as he fondly refers to himself is famed for the hit single Outside, Feeling featuring Ladipoe and latest Tik Tok sensation Finesse by Pheelz .

His early releases include 2018’s “Catch a Vibe” and 2019’s “Energy”, which grew his audience and led to appearances alongside heavy hitters like Zlatan (Spiritual), Wizkid (Mood), and 2021 collaborations with Blaqbonez and Amaarae (Bling), Timaya (Cold Outside) and Savage (“Confident”). 

BUJU'S (BNXN) EP ‘Sorry I’m Late’ in 2021, followed with ‘massively successful single concert of the same title last December. Buju’s story and impact on the mainstream soundscape presents him as Nigeria’s MVP of 2021.

The Grammy nominee is following in the footsteps of his mentor Burna Boy, who played a key role in the initial stages of his musical career at Spaceships Records.