The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) has signed a memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Kings University College London to partner in the establishment of the antidoping lab at KEMRI Centre in Eldoret.

This is one among other steps, the Institute is taking to realize fully the recently launched, Sports Sciences Research Centre in Eldoret.

Kings University College is the only accredited antidoping laboratory in the United Kingdom and among others is the testing centre for all Premier League footballers.

According to KEMRI’s Acting Director General & CEO Prof. Elijah Songok, the partnership with the London-based College will bring on board the required expertise for the Institute to carry out effective Sports Research.

“We are really excited to partner with King’s College- a university that has vast  experience, expertise and reputation in anti-doping testing and research. We believe  this is the right step in ensuring KEMRI serves as a hub for athlete sample testing but  also as a homegrown platform for other research and aim to eliminate the need to send  samples out of Kenya,” Prof. Songok said as he appended his signature on the MOU on behalf of KEMRI.

“We are happy to partner with KEMRI and we shall work together in consultation with WADA for Kenya to acquire the first accredited anti-doping laboratory for the East Africa region,” said Prof Kim Wolff, Head of Kings Forensics Centre.

Among the activities to be done by KEMRI and Kings College include partnership in the equipment of the laboratory with approved instrumentations, design of WADA approved protocols, training of KEMRI staff at Kings Forensics, and partnership in research and testing activities on anti-doping, forensics and drugs of abuse.

KEMRI is also in the processing of signing another MoU with the University of Stirling from the United Kingdom, one of the top five global sports science and research institution.

The Scottish-based University of Stirling university is ranked first in the UK and top five globally in sports facilities and excellence in sports research facilities, a fate that the institute is eager to replicate at the Eldoret Centre.

Some of areas of collaboration will range from healthy ageing to athlete performance, including physiology, nutrition, genetics, coaching, gender, and anti-doping.

Among those who witnessed the signing ceremony at Kings University were Dr. Fredrick Kirui, Chair of the KEMRI Sports Science Committee, Ms. Mary Kairu, Head of Testing at Antidoping Agency of Kenya (ADAK), Mr. Edwin Bett, Chair of KEMRI’s Capital Projects Committee, Ms. Lucy Kanyara, Head of KEMRI Laboratories and a member of the Kenya Medical Laboratory and Technicians Board (KMLTTB), Dr.Lucia Keter, Pharmacist and KEMRI researcher on drugs abuse, and Eva Aluvaala, Head of KEMRI Forensics Laboratory, while King’s University College London delegation, Prof. Kim was accompanied by Prof. Christer Hogstrand, Dr. Shoba Ali, Dr. Rodrigo Aguilera, Dr. Erika Castrighano, Prof. Denis Syndercombe-Court and Prof. Gilhan Tully.

KEMRI Eldoret Centre which was launched in August 2023 by Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Health, Nakhumicha  Wafula is designed to prioritize sports health research including comprehensive analysis of biological passports, factors associated with anti-doping testing, nutrition and sports injuries and will also serve as the Rift Valley regional station for research activities for the Institute.

KEMRI Eldoret is poised to evolve into a fully-fledged facility dedicated to comprehensively addressing the well-being of our athletes through a spectrum of holistic research studies including sports medicine and medical research components specifically targeting Nutrition Research, Social and Mental Health Research, Clinical Health aspects, provision of laboratory services as well as antidoping

Tanzanian Bongo Flava legend and music industry veteran Diamond Platnumz is jetting into Rwanda for the Trace Awards, accompanied by two of East Africa’s finest emerging talents, Zuchu and Jux, it was announced today by Trace, Visit Rwanda and Martell.

The first ever Trace Awards will take place at the BK Arena, Kigali, Rwanda on 21 October 2023. The coveted tickets for the awards are available now at www.ticqet.rw.

Diamond Platnumz and his fellow performers join a glittering lineup that brings together 50+ stars from around Africa and the African diaspora including Davido (Nigeria), Bamby (French Guiana), Benjamin Dube (South Africa), Blxckie (South Africa), Bruce Melodie (Rwanda), Bwiza (Rwanda), Didi B (Ivory Coast), Dystinct (Morocco), Janet Otieno (Kenya), Josey (Ivory Coast), Lisandro Cuxi (Cape Verde), Locko (Cameroon), Perola (Angola), Plutonio (Mozambique), Princess Lover (Martinique), Ronisia (France), Rutshelle Guillaume (Haïti), Soraia Ramos (Cape Verde), Terrell Elymoor (Mayotte), The Compozers (Ghana), Viviane Chidid (Senegal), Yemi Alade (Nigeria), Mr Eazi (Nigeria), Azawi (Uganda), BNXN (Nigeria), Camidoh (Ghana), Chriss Eazy (Rwanda), Danni Gatto (Cape Verde), DJ Illans (Reunion), Donovan BTS (Mauritius), Emma’a (Gabon), Gaei (Madagascar), Gerilson Insrael (Angola), Goulam (The Comores), Juls (Ghana), Kader Japonais (Algeria), Krys M (Cameroon), K.O (South Africa), KS Bloom (Ivory Coast), Levixone (Uganda), Mik’l (Réunion), Moses Bliss (Nigeria), Musa Keys (South Africa), Nadia Mukami (Kenya), Pabi Cooper (South Africa), Segael (Réunion), and Show dem Camp (Nigeria).

The Trace Awards showcases the excellence and diversity of Afro-centric music in genres such as Afrobeat, Dancehall, Hip Hop, Afro-pop, Mbalax, Amapiano, Zouk, Kizomba, Genge, Coupé Décalé, Bongo Flava, Soukous, Gospel, Rap, Rai, Kompa, R&B, and Rumba. Competing in 26 award categories are artists from more than thirty countries in Africa, South America, the Caribbean, the Indian Ocean and Europe.  For a full list of nominations, please click here.

Targeted at lovers of African and Afro-inspired music and culture, the Trace Awards will broadcast live on 21 October 2023 on Trace TV channels, radio and digital channels and on global streaming platforms, national terrestrial TV and satellite channels. The viewership and social interaction is expected to exceed 500 million fans in 190 countries.

Afro-Pop singer-songwriter and producer, Ndegz makes a comeback with a banging new track “Creep” in collaboration with Kenyan Hip-Hop legend Abbas Kubaff.

This Dancehall-infused track delves into the moral conflict of pursuing a love interest while already being committed to someone else. Ndegz enlists Abbas - lyrical genius and wordplay maestro who brings poetic excellence while offering a unique angle to the single’s story.

Ndegz is back with an impressive track that relays a journey of thirst, deceit and weakness perfectly laced with his multi-layered vocal harmonies on a backdrop to this confessional banger.

Ndegz says, “After six years without a release, it's humbling to see fans still loving and connecting with my music over the years. I want to thank you all for riding with me.”

Ndegz says on the inspiration, “This is a song about the moral dilemma of infidelity. It's a sensitive issue within society, but it happens to be a reality that many people can relate to,” adding, “I started off with a bass line and an udu drum loop, and found myself on a loop singing Creep. I dived into the vision and from there wrote the whole song.” 

Speaking about the collaboration with Abbas Kubaff who is one of Kenya’s Hip hop pioneers, Ndegz expressed his admiration for his counterpart, “I met the legend Abbas Kubaff by chance at an event and told him I’ve been a fan since his career days as a member of rap group K-South. I told him I would love to work with him someday and in the spur of the moment, we went straight to the studio and that's what became of Creep.”

Ndegz has a lot in store. He says, “I am now more excited with my return! I am on a roll and set to release more songs and excited to soon connect with my fanbase through live performances. I am scheduling a series of gigs for an authentic Ndegz experience.”

After a much-anticipated comeback, Kenyan songstress Phy is ready to captivate audiences with her latest musical creation, a 3-track EP titled "Tatu." 

The EP, which will be available on digital platforms on Friday 13th October, is a testament to her profound artistry and marks her first body-of-work release since her return from a four-year hiatus.

For the EP, she adopts the persona of a doctor, Dr. Phy, who through her #TheraPhy platform offers a unique therapeutic experience through music, allowing listeners to confront and process their daily experiences.

 "Mama na Baba" – In this upbeat soulful amapiano track, Phy offers a touching glimpse into the world of parenting, embracing both its highs and lows. With candid and relatable lyrics, she paints a vivid picture of the everyday chaos and love that comes with raising children.

"Niko Majuu" – An evocative song strung on a lofi-beat that delves into the nostalgia felt by Africans living in the diaspora who have left home in pursuit of a better life. It validates the nostalgia, homesickness, and culture shock felt by people who’ve left home to make a better life for themselves and their families.

"Nyamaza" – Phy addresses the pressing issue of cyberbullying through emotion-laden vocals in this ballad.

The song serves as a poignant reminder to examine our intentions towards others and ourselves in the era of social media. It encourages empathy, compassion, grace, and the recognition that we are more alike than different.

 Phy's ability to capture the essence of life's complex and relatable experiences through her music is on full display in "Tatu."

Her return to the music scene promises an emotional and unforgettable experience for listeners. Her unique sound and lyrical depth have won her fans across the globe, and "Tatu" is set to further establish her as a significant voice in the Kenyan music landscape.

Rwanda’s creative scene is buzzing as plans hot up for the Trace Festival at the Kigali Convention & Exhibition Village (KCEV), Kigali, Rwanda, 20-22 October 2023.

To buy your tickets for the Trace Festival, priced 2,500 RWF (under 18) and 5,000 RWF (over 18), please go to https://tracefestival.hustlesasa.shop.

Unfolding over three days and nights, the Trace Festival aims to put Rwandan creativity and the country’s flourishing creative economy on the map in a celebration of music, entertainment, fashion, food, design, photography, arts & crafts, hair and beauty, home decor and much, much more.

A host of Rwandan and international musical talent has been added to the lineup while Rwandan creators and brands have flocked to be part of the dynamic marketplace.

Among the highlights to look out for at the Trace Festival are:

-Rwandan headliners and hitmakers: Bruce Melodie, Sema Sole, Angell Mutoni, Boy Chopper, Mike Kayihura, Tsonpa, Ish Kevin and Kenny K-Shot.

-International bangers: Performances by international artists including special guest performer Nomcebo plus fellow Trace Awards nominees Roseline Layo, Gerilson Insrael, Soraia Ramos, Lisandro Cuxi, Donovan BTS, Gaei, Mik’l, and Goulam.

-Hot DJ action from: DJ Illans, DJ Hottempah Collective, DJ Fans-T, DJ Higa, DJ Rusam, and DJ Irah.

-Sunday “Block Party”: A closing jam with sizzling Rwandan and international artists including lam, Kivumbi King, Maalhox, Mani Bella, Koppo, Lisandro Cuxi, Mike Kayihura, and Gerilson Insrael.

-Hot Looks and Trends in Fashion and Beauty: Fashion showcases & tutorials, beauty treatments and super-glam Trace Awards looks to get you camera-ready for the red carpet.

-Uplifting Gospel vibes: A heavenly Sunday gospel concert with The Soweto Gospel Choir, Benjamin Dube, KS Bloom, and local heroes Nyundo School of Music Art, and Ubuhanzi Cohort.

-Shopping Dreams & gorgeous goods from: Moshions, House of Tayo, Sonia Mugabo, Inzuki, KT'SOBtE, Maison Munezero, Uzi Collection, Rwanda Clothing, N'intoki, Ki-pepeo Kids, Wearfragile, Bibi Creations, Kalunza, Ahaya Links, Irebe, Mwinda, Tugirimana, Art Rwanda Ubuhanzi, KomezArt, Wood Habitat, Lisa Marler, Laini, In Wood, Mass Made, and Master Weavers.

-Delicious bites, snacks and treats from: Pat's Bangerz Food Truck, Bunz, Choma'd, A La Brunch, Akwaaba Kigali, Issa Brochettes, Turambe Salad Bar, Jollof Kigali, Torino's, Vital Organics, and BICU.

 -Stimulating conference sessions on: Music rights, the edutainment revolution, the creative economy, sustainable fashion, songwriting, content creation and much, much more.

The Trace Festival opens at 16H00 on Friday 20 October and continues until 20H00 on Sunday 22 October.  

King Charles III and Queen Camilla are expected to make their first official visit to Kenya this October.

According to a statement from the official Royal Family page, King Charles and Queen Camilla are expected to tour Kenya from October 31 to November 3.

''The visit will take place from Tuesday 31st October to Friday 3rd November 2023, and will celebrate the warm relationship between the two countries and the strong and dynamic partnership they continue to forge.'' reads the statement

Adding ''The visit is at the invitation of President Ruto and comes as Kenya prepares to celebrate 60 years of independence. His Majesty’s first visit to a Commonwealth nation as King is therefore to the country in which Queen Elizabeth II’s reign began, having acceded to the throne in Kenya in February 1952.''

This will be King Charles's first official visit to Kenya since he was crowned King in May 2023, and a historical one as this is the country in which his mother was announced Queen Elizabeth II, having acceded to the throne in Kenya in February 1952.

The King and Queen will visit Nairobi City County, Mombasa County and surrounding areas.

Their Majesties’ programme will reflect the ways in which Kenya and the United Kingdom are working together, notably to boost mutual prosperity, tackle climate change, promote youth opportunity and employment, advance sustainable development and create a more stable and secure region.

During the visit, Their Majesties will meet President Ruto and the First Lady as well as and other members of the Kenyan Government, UN staff, CEOs, faith leaders, young people, future leaders and Kenyan Marines training with UK Royal Marines.

The King will also attend an event to celebrate the life and work of the Nobel Laureate the late Professor Wangari Maathai, together with Wangari’s daughter, Wanjira Mathai.

The King and Queen’s programme will celebrate the close links between the British and Kenyan people in areas such as the creative arts, technology, enterprise, education and innovation.

The visit will also acknowledge the more painful aspects of the UK and Kenya’s shared history, including the Emergency (1952-1960).

"His Majesty will take time during the visit to deepen his understanding of the wrongs suffered in this period by the people of Kenya.'' reads part of the statement.

Together, Their Majesties will tour a new museum dedicated to Kenya’s history and will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior at Uhuru Gardens, as well as visiting the site of the declaration of Kenya’s independence in 1963.

The King and Queen’s programme also will include:

• Their Majesties will be greeted in Nairobi with a ceremonial welcome at State House and will each attend bilateral meetings – The King with The President and The Queen with the First Lady, before The President hosts a State Banquet at State House.
• His Majesty will visit the United Nations Office at Nairobi, to learn more about the work of UN Habitat and the UN Environment Programme. UNON is the only UN Headquarters in the Commonwealth.
• His Majesty will attend a technology showcase, meeting Kenyan entrepreneurs who are driving forward innovation in the country’s tech sector. Kenya has the third largest start up eco-system in Africa.
• His Majesty will host a reception focussed on Kenya’s young people and future leaders across development, trade, media, the creative arts and environmental conservation.
• Their Majesties will visit a Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemetery, joining British and Kenyan military personnel in an act of Remembrance, before hearing about the Commission’s recent work to ensure all those who supported Britain’s efforts in both World Wars are commemorated.
• The King and Queen will visit Nairobi National Park to witness the vital conservation work being undertaken by the Kenya Wildlife Service, which is integral to Kenya’s thriving tourism industry.
• Her Majesty, Patron of the equine welfare charity Brooke, will hear how the charity is working with the Kenya Society for the Protection and Care of Animals to rescue donkeys at risk and promote their welfare.
• The King, as Captain General of the Royal Marines, and The Queen, will visit Mtongwe Naval Base in Mombasa. There, Their Majesties will witness Kenyan Marines, trained by the Royal Marines, demonstrating a covert beach landing, showing defence collaboration in action.
• The Queen will meet survivors of sexual and gender-based violence, learning how they are supported and sharing her own insights from working in this area.
• The King will meet faith leaders from Mombasa’s diverse community, hearing how they are working together to promote harmony amongst the city’s population.

Nigerian music legend, entrepreneur and philanthropist D’Banj, and Angolan supermodel and fashion icon Maria Borges have been revealed as the hosts of the first Trace Awards in Rwanda.

Presented by Visit Rwanda and Martell, the Trace Awards will take place at the BK Arena, Kigali, Rwanda on 21 October 2023.

D’Banj and Maria Borges will preside over a star-studded lineup of 60+ performers and nominees at the Trace Awards including Davido (Nigeria), Nomcebo (South Africa), Yemi Alade (Nigeria), Mr Eazi (Nigeria), Blxckie (South Africa), Bruce Melodie (Rwanda), Bwiza (Rwanda), Chriss Eazy (Rwanda), Didi B (Ivory Coast), Dystinct (Morocco), Janet Otieno (Kenya), Josey (Ivory Coast), Lisandro Cuxi (Cape Verde), Locko (Cameroon), Mikl (Reunion), Perola (Angola), Plutonio (Mozambique), Princess Lover (Martinique), Ronisia (France), Rutshelle Guillaume (Haïti), Soraia Ramos (Cape Verde), Tayc (France), Terrell Elymoor (Mayotte), The Compozers (Ghana), Viviane Chidid (Senegal), Azawi (Uganda), BNXN (Nigeria), Camidoh (Ghana), Danni Gatto (Cape Verde), Donovan BTS (Mauritius), Emma’a (Gabon), Bamby (French Guiana), GAEI (Madagascar), Gerilson Insrael (Angola), Goulam (The Comores), Kader Japonais (Algeria), Krys M (Cameroon), K.O (South Africa), KS Bloom (Ivory Coast), Levixone (Uganda), Moses Bliss (Nigeria), Musa Keys (South Africa), Nadia Mukami (Kenya), Maureen (Martinique), Pabi Cooper (South Africa), Segael (Réunion), the Soweto Gospel Choir (South Africa).  

The latest additions to the lineup include Artmasta (Tunisia), Ko-c (Cameroon), Odumodublvck (Nigeria), Pheelz (Nigeria) and Roselyne Layo (Ivory Coast).

Also in town to attend the Awards and to appear at the Trace Festival are Benjamin Dube (South Africa), BNXN (Nigeria), DJ Illans (Reunion), Josey (Ivory Coast), Juls (Ghana), Moses Bliss (Nigeria) and Show dem Camp (Nigeria).

Known for his groundbreaking contributions to the African music industry, D’Banj is a towering figure in the world of African music and entertainment whose music career has spanned more than two decades.

His journey in the music industry began in the early 2000s when he burst onto the scene with his unique blend of Afrobeat, Afro-pop, and contemporary music genres.

His mesmerising stage presence, magnetic charisma, and captivating live performances quickly endeared him to fans both in Africa and across the world, helped by an extensive repertoire of chart-topping hits such as "Oliver Twist," "Fall in Love," "Scapegoat," and "Mr. Endowed."  "Oliver Twist" performed exceptionally well, reaching the top ten on the UK Singles Chart and peaking at Number Two.

 D'Banj's signing to Kanye West's G.O.O.D Music record label in June 2011 was a significant milestone for him and for African artists.  As the first African artist to achieve a global top ten with "Oliver Twist" in the UK, D’Banj contributed to the African music industry and pioneered the representation of African artists internationally.

D’Banj’s music has topped the African charts and found resonance on the international stage but he still finds time for many other activities, and has been recognized for his philanthropic efforts, particularly his commitment to empowering African youth through his Koko Foundation.

Another notable contribution to the music industry is his Cream Platform, an innovative talent discovery and support platform that aims to showcase and promote emerging African artists.

It provides a unique opportunity for young talents to gain exposure, access mentorship, and collaborate with established industry professionals. By nurturing and supporting aspiring musicians, D'Banj continues to contribute to the growth and development of the African music scene, supporting African talent with funds, videos and other industry access.

Stunning Angolan supermodel and catwalk star, Maria Borges first burst onto the fashion scene in 2010 when she signed with prestigious agency Supreme Management. Soon she was walking the runways for the world’s fashion elite including fashion designers from Balmain to Banana Republic, Diane von Fürstenberg to Dior, and from Emporio Armani to Erdem.

Her appearance on the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show runway in 2013 catapulted her into international stardom and she has subsequently appeared in campaigns for Givenchy, Tommy Hilfiger, H&M, Bobbi Brown, C&A, L'Oréal, Mac Cosmetics, and Forever 21.

In 2017, she featured on the cover of Elle magazine in the USA, making headlines and promoting diversity and natural beauty in the fashion world by becoming the first African woman to wear natural short hair on the cover of the magazine.  

Commented Olivier Laouchez, Co-founder & Chairman of Trace, “D’Banj and Maria Borges are the perfect hosts for the inaugural Trace Awards. As trailblazers in the music and fashion industries, respectively, they have inspired countless young people, pushed the boundaries of creativity, and had a major cultural impact in Africa and around the world. We look forward to welcoming them to Rwanda in October for an unforgettable night celebrating African and Afro-inspired music and culture.”

Added D’Banj, “It’s a great honour to co-host the first Trace Awards in Africa and lead this amazing celebration of African and Afro-origin music for music fans around the world. I can’t wait to get to Rwanda and connect with all the incredible artists nominated and performing at the Trace Awards

And from Maria, "I am deeply humbled and incredibly excited to host the inaugural Trace Awards. Doing this in Rwanda, this beautiful nation, with its rich history and resilient spirit, will make this occasion all the more special for me. Celebrating the best Afro-centric musical achievements in Rwanda, with D’Banj, and surrounded by such incredible warmth and culture, is truly an honour I will cherish."  

Targeted at lovers of African and Afro-inspired music and culture, the Trace Awards will broadcast live on 21 October 2023 on Trace TV, radio and digital channels and on global streaming platforms (YouTube), national terrestrial TV and satellite channels. The viewership and social interaction is expected to exceed 500 million fans in 190 countries.

You can buy your ticket from www.ticqet.rw priced from 20,000 RWF. To get close up and personal to your favourite stars, try the “Ubumwe” fan zone (30,000 RWF).  For a 25% discount on all tickets, sign up for the BK Arena Prepaid Card.

Rwandan creativity and excellence are represented by the involvement of BK Arena, RwandAir, RBA and Kiss FM as partners to the Trace Awards & Festival.

Visitors to the Trace Awards and Festival in Rwanda are eligible for a 15 percent discount on RwandAir flight prices to Kigali using the code TRACE23.