Alternative R&B Kenyan singer-songwriter, Xenia Manasseh, has released “Anticipate” a brand new single featuring Karun, Kenyan R&B singer who is making waves in the growing alternative scene.

“Anticipate” is the second lead single off Xenia’s upcoming anticipated debut album ‘LOVE/HATE PT. 1’ scheduled for release 1 September 2023.

Link to Pre-Save album. 

From the heavy drum, bass and percussion combination in the beginning to the laid back but impactful, orchestral second half, the new song showcases Xenia's vulnerability in a simple yet profound storyline complimenting Karun’s haunting vocals.

“Anticipate” lyrics take on the uncertainty of a relationship that no longer blooms or feels the same. 

“Anticipate” follows the success of her first single off the project - “Temporary Love” where she openly admits to being afraid of love or being in love again and the choices that she made as a result.

Ahead of the release, Xenia Manasseh admits that the making of “Anticipate” was fueled by two friends being honest to each other.

She says, “It came from a place where Karun and I were afraid to tap into an emotion we have both experienced and we admit it,”.

Adding, “Anticipate is a song that revolves around time and wanting to move forward from a current state of uncertainty by chasing the feeling of what it used to be.” In this moment of vulnerability she admits to finally wanting to be done with love that is temporary or fleeting."

Like many of Xenia’s songs “Anticipate” lives in the future and the past both in meaning and sonically.

Xenia has a vision to create music for a global audience that is a relatable, honest and true reflection of her life, values and experiences.

Her music binds people from various walks of life because it speaks on real universal messages. And this concept transcends into her upcoming 11-track body of work.

As Xenia’s debut project, it is beautifully curated, with songs produced into the finest of detail and features collaborations that also include Tay Iwar and Shalom Dubas. 

Xenia continues to make waves as an artist who blends stunning lyrical relatability with lush vocals and intricate songwriting.

She is renowned for bringing a refreshing new sound to the music scene following the success of her 2019 debut EP Fallin' Apart. She has captivated a varied audience with the clarity and the purity of her tone and successful collaborations like Maybe 2022 EP with Kenyan producer/artist Ukweli.

Kenyan stand-up comedian and one of Africa’s leading voices in comedy and entertainment, Mammito Eunice, will headline at The Mammito & Girlfriends comedy night event slated for 26 August 2023 at the Nairobi National Museum’s auditorium.

Dubbed ‘girlfriends’, this is the second edition of her comedy franchise, following December's Mammito & Friends, her first self-produced music and comedy event. 

Mammito & Girlfriends will feature elite comedians; Justine Wanda, Ruth Nyambura, Shazz Nderitu and Ciku Waithaka.

Ahead of the show Mammito says, “I’m elated to be sharing my platform with these comical women that I am proud to also call my friends, whom I've also shared the stage with before."

Adding "They all have different perspectives on daily life issues, politics and even relationships. Their views are unconforming and I like that. This is why I want my fans to meet my girlfriends.”

The all-female stand-up comedy lineup is geared for the show and describes their style of delivery ahead of the show.

Justine Wanda who is also a comedy writer and political satirist says, “I’m witty, chaotically charming and have a strong resume in dark humour.” 

Ruth Nyambura who is a Financial Analyst by profession says, “If don't judge a book by its cover was a person, it would be me. My calm demeanor won't prepare you for my funny side. My wicked and intelligent humor will leave you gasping for breath with laughter.”

Shazz Nderitu wears many hats. She’s an Interior Designer, MC and Mathematics Teacher among other things.

She says, “I do stand-up comedy to appease the ancestors and because I am awesome at it. My excellent commentary on issues will make me your next darling!”.

Ciku Waithaka who is a TV & Film producer, Voice Over Actor & Writer is also a force in the comedy space. She’s warm, deceptively funny and adorable.

Mammito is a trendsetting entertainer and stand-up comedian whose content resonates with millions of her fans in Kenya, Africa and beyond.

She is currently preparing to headline and perform for the first time in Doha (Aug 10 2023) at The ‘African Night of Laughter’ event which is the biggest comedy event in Qatar.

The event is presented by Oryx Entertainment and is dedicated to showcasing the in-depth strength of African comedy in the global scene of comedy entertainment, bringing to the forefront the continent’s identity and entertainment interactions in Qatar.

The comedy event is supported by the Embassy of Kenya and the Embassy of Nigeria will also feature Oga Sabinus (Mr. Funny) from Nigeria. 

Every year, one of nature's most awe-inspiring spectacles unfolds in the vast wilderness of Kenya, especially in the Mara - the Great Wildebeest Migration. As millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other herbivores traverse perilous terrains in search of greener pastures, visitors from around the globe gather to witness this epic journey.

Amidst the pristine landscapes of Kenya and Tanzania, Sarova Mara stands out as an oasis of luxury and hospitality, offering a unique and unparalleled experience for those who wish to witness this remarkable event.

Sarova Mara Game Camp has long been known for providing guests with an immersive and authentic African safari experience. This season as the migration continues, the facility says it is set and ready to accommodate any number of visitors within and without the country that will flood the Mara to witness the wonder.

“Just as we have done over the years, we are ready to help our visitors have an experience of their lifetime while at the Sarova Mara. The facility is now on another level following the state-of-the-art refurbishment that has been going on, to ensure that our visitors do get value and the experience that they will always cherish,” said Managing Director Sarova Hotels and Resorts, Jimi Kariuki.

“All our tented accommodation is master ensuite while some Club Tents offer a spectacular view of the rolling savannah plains. The organic garden provides the freshest ingredients for our exceptional cuisine with bush dining options available,” he added.

To accommodate the influx of visitors during the Great Migration season, Sarova Mara Game Camp ensures a seamless experience from start to finish. Preparations begin well in advance, with a keen eye on understanding the patterns and movements of the migrating herds. This knowledge enables them to plan the safari itineraries effectively, maximizing the chances of guests witnessing the awe-inspiring crossings over the Mara River.

The safari guides at the facility are experienced and highly knowledgeable about the wildlife and the nuances of the migration. Their expertise not only guarantees the best vantage points for observing the wildebeests' river crossings but also ensures the safety of the guests and the animals. With their guidance, visitors can capture breathtaking photographs and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

The lodgings are designed to blend seamlessly with the surroundings, offering an intimate experience with nature without compromising on comfort. Picture yourself waking up to the sounds of birds chirping, followed by a sumptuous breakfast overlooking the savannah - a scene only Sarova can paint with perfection.

The war of words between Bongo flava heavyweights Ali Kiba and Diamond Platnumz escalated on Sunday, July 30.

In a strongly worded statement, Diamond chided Kiba arguing that he was lagging behind despite being a veteran in the East African Music scene.

The Wasafi records founder reprimanded Kiba accusing him of leaving in denial despite failing to hit desired music levels. Diamond bragged about how he had outsmarted the Kings Record owner on music sales, followers on social media platforms, awards, and fees charged per show.

“The problem is that people close to you do not tell you the truth. They have lied to you that’s why I have overtaken you despite venturing first into music. I have overtaken you in everything including in sales, rewards, followers, subscribers, viewers, listeners, cost per show, and generally in life (Tatizo unaokaa nao hawakuambii ukweli, wanakudanganya na ndio maana mimekupita kila kitu, kimauzo, kituzo, kifollowers, subscribers, viewers,listeners,ki bei za show, kimaendeleo..,” Diamond’s statement read in part.

He further threw shade at Kiba arguing that his estranged wife Amina Khalef, is well acquainted with him.

In what seemed like an encouragement Diamond stated that Kiba’s musical journey had stagnated because he had only built his fanbase in East Africa. Additionally he noted that the Sumu hit maker had not diversified his business by setting performances outside East Africa. 

The Wasafi CEO told Kiba to adopt better promotional strategies used by other successful African artists such as Burna Boy and Davido. 

In terms of giving back to the society and helping other artists, Diamond noted that Kiba had failed to elevate his younger brother Abdu Kiba. 

“Between me and you, who does have a helping spirit? You have failed to help your younger brother despite him being a great potential (Jamani, hivi kati ya mie na wewe nani asa hana roho ya kusaidia watu?... wakati wewe mdogo wako tu wa damu unashindwa msaidia akafanikiwa kimuziki wakati ana uwezo mzuri tu kimuziki,” he insisted.

“Help people so that God can bless you. I will want you to progress so that we can continue spicing up the music scene,” he added.

The feud between the two East African giants escalated after Kiba accused of Diamond of riding on publicity stunts to market his music.

Kwale Governor Fatma Achani has raised concern over what she terms as lack of respect for Muslim Women leaders in the country.

According to Achani, some political leaders and government officials have been openly showing lack of respect to muslim leaders.

Speaking in Ukunda, Kwale county during an Interdenominational thanksgiving church service attended by president William Ruto, Achani vowed not to abandon her hijab for political respect.

"Some people don't value me just because I put on a Hijab. I will not put it down for me to be respected." said Achani.

Achani  commended President William Ruto for his acknowledgment to Muslim women leaders in the country.

"“I want to thank you Mr. President for valuing women leadership. I remember when we were in Kilifi last week some people showed me some disrespect just because I was putting on a hijab. I saw you were very unhappy when a PS failed to recognize me but you intervened and gave me a chance to speak, I thank you Mr. President and we as a leader will work together."

Other leaders present during the function were Prime Cabinet secretary Musalia Mudavadi National assembly speaker Moses Wetangula and his Senate counterpart Amason Kingi, Blue Economy CS Salim Mvurya, Mombasa governor Abdulswamad Nassir and his Nairobi counterpart Johnson Sakaja among others.

Hijab generally refers to various head coverings conventionally worn by Muslim women. While a hijab can come in many forms, it often specifically refers to a headscarf, wrapped around the head and neck, covering the hair, neck, and ears but leaving the face visible.

Defence CS Aden Duale is among leaders who has been advocating for the right of Muslim Women to wear hijab especially in public places.

Last year. Duale made headlines after insisting that Muslim Women including students should be allowed to wear hija.

"If you have a problem with the Hijabs our girls, wives and sisters are wearing Hijab and you are in Kenya, then you better leave this country." said Duale.

Kenya is not in political crisis and does not require any international mediator, Prime Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi has said.

Mudavadi said  President William Ruto  was democratically elected and was sworn into office in accordance with the Constitution, adding that the country does not have a leadership vacuum.

He wished away any thoughts of having an international mediator to sit down Ruto and Azimio leader Raila Odinga.

“Kenya is not in an international crisis. People should not pretend to be calling former Presidents to come and mediate on issues that can be resolved locally,” he stated.

Adding: "There is no crisis that calls for any intervention internationally, Kenya has not reached that phase that requires any foreign mediation."

The Prime Cabinet Secretary insisted that  Ruto is firmly at the helm of the leadership of the country and the legal and constitutional power lies within him.

“The transition to power between President Ruto and his predecessor was in accordance with the constitution of the land. In a glaring daylight, he was handed over the sword as the Commander-in-Chief,” said Mudavadi.

Mudavadi has accused the opposition of seeking international sympathy saying neighboring countries have faced serious political turmoils than what is currently happening in Kenya.

He regretted that the opposition is still to accept the reality, an year after elections were held.

“We witnessed in South Africa when President Ramaphosa had a difficult time to govern, but Kenya was not consulted to mediate. Our neighbours in Uganda have had a range of issues but nobody called on the President of Kenya to go and mediate. This call for international mediation is hogwash,” Mudavadi uttered.

He was speaking during an interdenominational thanksgiving and prayer service held at Ukunda grounds in Kwale, where he accompanied the President on his fourth day of the Coastal regional tour.

Mudavadi also defended the Kenya Kwanza Government, which will be marking its first anniversary in power in few days, saying their eye is on the ball it will not entertain side shows.

“Under the leadership of President Ruto, we are ready to engage our brothers on matters economic resuscitation. Trying to internationalize their loses is not part of our agenda if any talks are to happen," he said.

“The President has a plan... and the plan is anchored on the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda. We are steadily implementing what we promised Kenyans and the trajectory is bearing positive feedback,” he added.

The Government has been firm on subsidizing production other than consumption stating that in few months, Kenyans will feel a relief, after a long suffering instigated during the previous regime.

The prices for fertilizer for instance, was reduced from Sh7,000 to Sh3,500, with the Government saying that the price will drop further to about Sh2,500.

“We have to prosecute our agenda as one people. Changing the fortunes of this country requires a collective approach. We are fixing the loopholes and we will not entertain anyone who wants to derail the course,” he stated.

Mudavadi said Ruto has become the African ambassador championing for the rightful share of the continent globally, stating that he has been on the forefront in advocating for key solutions to the current global crisis of climate change.

“In September Kenya host a major global conference on climate change. This shows the milestones that Kenya has achieved and its recognition in the recent months globally. The President is the man behind these strides,” said Mudavadi.

The Prime Cabinet Secretary earlier alluded to the potential that the Coastal region carries in contributing to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the country.

He said more focus on travel, tourism and hospitality will help unlock the bottlenecks facing the sector, which contributes immensely to the growth of Kenya’s economy.

He further stated that it is time Kenyans break lose the chains of poverty and dependance on foreign aid by working towards a moment of change for the prosperity of the nation.

BY MOSES MUNYOKI

Omar Abdallah is the new Chairman, Kenya Correspondents Association (KCA) Coast region.

Omar popularly known as Ommy Dallah was elected as the new Chairperson by the region members in an election that was held in Mombasa.

He takes the leadership mantle from Baya Kitsao who has served in the position for a period of three years.

In his acceptance speech Omar vowed to work together with all team members and make the association beneficial to all its members.

“I would like to say a big thank you to all who voted for me and even those who didn’t  and I look forward to work with everyone as we endeavor to empower one another”, said Omar Abdalla.

Other officials elected during the election are Treeza Auma( Vice Chairperson), David Ngumbao (Secretary General), Charles Ogallo (Assistant Secretary), Ali Mwalimu (Treasurer). Moses Munyoki and Sharon Nyakundi were elected as committee members.

According to the KCA constitution there are ten Regional Committees composed of seven elected members namely; Central, Coast, Lower Eastern, Upper Eastern, Nairobi, North Eastern, Nyanza, Rift Valley, and Western.

The Regional officials serves for a term of three.

Traders operating at the Mama Ngina water had  a rare chance to interact with President William Ruto who toured the facility on Thursday evening.

The president, accompanied by Mombasa governor Abdulswamad Nassir, Mining Cs Salim Mvurya and Nyali Member of Parliament Mohamed Ali was welcomed by the traders who had spread their different merchandise for sale.

Elated by the hardworking traders, the president gifted them a sh 100,000 as lunch. The president is on the coast where he will traverse the five counties in the region including Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, Kwale and Tana River.

The president, who looked impressed by the hardworking traders, took his humble time to have a chat with them while enjoying some (Mahindi Choma)’roasted Maize, thanks to a young mahindi Choma hustler.

Nyali Mp Mohamed Ali said president Ruto’s visit is a testimony that the Kenya Kwanza government has put the interest of small scale traders at heart.Ali said the government will walk with grassroots businessmen and women to empower them.

“Elated and pleased to welcome H.E. President William Samoei Ruto to Mombasa this evening. Alongside the Governor of Mombasa, Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir and other leaders.The president paid a visit to the hardworking small-scale businesses that form the heart and soul of Mombasa at Mama Ngina Drive. The President's presence is a testament to his commitment to uplift every segment of society and ensure that no one is left behind,” said Ali in a Facebook post.

The president began his five days coastal tour on Thursday starting with Mokowe Lamu., where he opened the county commissioner's office and presented cheques to the fishing community in the area.

The President is expected to issue title deeds in Kilifi County and later preside over the rededication ceremony of KNS Shupavu, a Kenyan navy warship that underwent a comprehensive refit at the Kenya Shipyards Limited in Mombasa.

On Saturday the President is expected to preside over the launch of the local vehicle assembly line and chair a meeting bringing together port users and other port stakeholders.

Mombasa governor Abdulswamad Nassir has decried the bloated wage bill that has continued to haunt his administration.

The county boss says the county has Broken the public finance management act after the latest audit report, exposed Mombasa as an extravagant county in spending on wage bills.

“In the latest audit report and you will see me in the senate answering these questions, we have Broken the PFM act, our wage bill exceeds the acceptable percentage in terms of what is our revenue,” said Nassir.

Nassir says the county pays more than 100 Million shillings as salaries to staff attached to the coast general teaching and referral hospital alone. This means that 25 percent more than what it pays to all county employees.

“Currently as it stands the salaries of employees of county government of Mombasa is about sh 497 million that is before the casuals the community health workers and the rest, those who are attached at the coast general their salaries are at sh 100 Million,” said Nassir.

Nassir says as it stands the county is unable to hire more doctors nor can it increase salaries of medics due to the budget strains. The governor says that the coast general teaching and referral hospital should start working on a law to govern it.

Mombasa governor Abdulswamad Nassir now wants the coast general teaching and referral hospital to come up with a bill to make it independent as other corporations. He assured that even after the transfer of payroll from county to CPGH their pensions will not be affected.

“The pensions remain, they will not be altered, a legal document will be done, to protect that the only issue we are saying is the transfer of the payroll from county government to CPGH on those employees working at the coast general teaching and referral hospital

The governor says he will not compel the hospital board to implement that, even as it emerges that the county governor wants the hospital to stand on its own. He says the changes could be effective if a proper law is followed.

“For those who wish to walk this journey with us, and I wish we will go the same, for those who wish they cannot, we will simply have to rearrange ourselves, it’s simply as that, I simply fail to understand that we are removing payroll from the county government of Mombasa to the coast general hospital, that amount of money will be coming from county government of Mombasa, we need to be seen as a county that is following financial prudence,” said Nassir.

Bamburi Rifle Club in Mombasa county was proud to host another International IDPA Tier 3 championship dubbed Euro Africa Ultra Match.

The BRC chairman highlighted that the Ultra match brand is an Annual continental championship that was collaborated by shooting sports officials from Europe Africa and Asia.

 “It is a great honor for BRC Kenya to host the championship in Africa branding our country to be a  sport shooting and tourism destination.

Switzerland Swissaaa.org representative Andy Pfenninger disclosed that the Euro-Africa event in Kenya was a big success and Kenyan sport shooters were exposed to compete with international shooters during the event.

He concluded that the championship circuit started in Italy in May followed by Kenya in July and the last round will be in December 2023 in Thailand.

Shooter Geoffrey Pesa emerged victorious in the Pistol Caliber Carbrine (PCC) master category with 357.55 points at the Euro Africa IDPA Level 111 Championship that attracted 171 shooters at the Bamburi Rifle Club over the weekend.

In the PCC marksman category the winner was Kilonzo Soi with 520.95 points after facing no challenge from his class at the global event held at the Bamburi Rifle Club in Mombasa on to July 20-23,2023.

Competing in PCC novice category Ramadhan Mahamed scoped the top slot with 646.01 points while Timimi Suhayb was second with 676.18 points. Third position in the PCC novice category went to Machira Lucy with 739.45 points.

In the Enhanced Service Pistol (ESP) master category, Mike Kiptanui was declared the winner with   525.17 points and the second position went to Eric Wachira 526.40 points. While seasonal shooter Inspector of Police Mohammed Aden trailed at position three with 548.86 points.

In the ESP expert category, Agnes Muchiri won for the category with 540.10 points.  Mohammed Noor Ahmed was second with 567.11 points and third position went to Dhruv Shah with 682.39 points.

ESP Novice category Milan Shah won with 811.03 points, second slot was won by Anthony Maingi with 2028.44 points.

In the Carry Optic (CO) master category was won by industry shooting instructor Sammy Onyango with 513.93 points. CO expert division went to Tony Karanja after amassing 740.94 points.

The Sharp Shooter class went to Omar Moosa with 694.93 points and the Back Up Gun (BUG) category novice division with only one competitor went to Peter Njoroge with 902.83 points.

In the revolver category, Novice competition Joel Githaiga was declared the winner with 1374.12 points.

In the Special Division Senior Stand category Joakim Kimachu was first with 573.47 points with no other competitor challenging him in the category.

The Stock Service Pistol (SSP)Expert category was scoped by Peter Muli with 535.60 points. Morris Muriithi was second with 611.35 points and James Thou got 633.82 points respectively.  The SSP master category went to Damiel Mutiso with 556.15 points and Moses Rono with 573.76 points.

Shooter Meshack Mwendwa competing alone in SS class scoped 618.40 points to be declared a winner.

Contesting in SSP marksman division Charles Mugendi won with 679.37 points, second was Tonny Munene 1101.66 points and the third position was bagged by Peter Okul with 1105.65 points