Is DNA dating Linda Muthama?

Unlike the States where celebrity couples are the norm, in Kenya two celebs seeing each other is still a big deal. Celeb couples Nameless and Wahu, Abbas and Baby Gangsta are now joined by Linda Muthama and DNA. The two have reportedly been seeing each other in secret for the past two months. A Word Is snitch spotted the couple in Mombasa about two weeks ago. When reached for comment however DNA refused to answer any questions about their relationship but revealed, “I was working in Mombasa that weekend.” Linda was unavailable for comment by the time we went to press.

Caroline Mutoko’s updates from Geneva

Kiss100 breakfast show presenter Caroline Mutoko is travelling back to Nairobi at the end of the two-day Geneva conference called by Kofi Annan and reports on her experience in the Swiss city.
“The experience in Geneva has been sobering but also enlightening. Sobering because it’s so clear that we have a coalition government that is resistant to reform simply because implementing the reforms laid out in the national accord means a change in the status quo.
“Enlightening because it’s clear that Kenyans must push the political class forward. In fact, a member of the government delegation said, ‘It’s important that we remember that the political class will find it hard to begin reform if those reforms mean editing themselves out of the picture.’ Kenyans must find a way to work towards pushing the political class into reform.”
On a lighter note Caroline met AC Milan’s Philip Senderos and his team who were also staying at the Intercontinental on Monday. “I met them only in passing on the corridor. They were in their red-track suits and all speaking French or German. I didn’t know footballers have a workshop!”
The Standard’s News Editor Ben Agina managed to get snapped with the bald headed football star.

Professor Were awarded by France

The French Ambassador to Kenya, Elisabeth Barbier, presented to Prof. Miriam Were the medal of Knight in the French National Order of the Légion d’Honneur.
The ceremony took place at the ambassador’s residence, in the presence notably of Aida Odinga, the wife of the Kenyan PM Raila Odinga.
Prof. Were is an emeritus professor of Community Health at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Nairobi. She is a proponent of a school of thought which has largely spread outside the frontiers of Kenya. This movement encouraged communities to take charge of the basic health needs, rather than waiting for the services of the hypothetically set up public health services in the village. For this school of thought, the basic services, notably those of prevention and hygiene, must be organised by the village community on a voluntary basis.
Prof. Were has worked at the World Health Organisation and at Unicef. She is actually chairs the international board of directors of the association AMREF (African Medical Research Foundation), which is active on five countries of East Africa and in Somalia and Burundi. She is also the director of the National Aids Control Council, a Kenyan organisation which intervenes in the fight against HIV and Aids. She is also the founder of the NGO Uzima (life in Swahili) which works to empower and improve the health of Kenyan youth, development of the economy and the promotion of justice.
In her speech, the French Ambassador praised the numerous actions in favour of the promotion of public health and the fight against HIV and aids, carried out by Prof. Miriam Were, throughout her career. She recalled that the fight against HIV and Aids is a priority of France. France is the second contributor to the Global Fund against Aids, Tuberculosis and Malaria. (Its contribution is around 300 million € each year) and the first contributor to UNITAID (160 million € each year) which finances anti retroviral treatment from taxes collected on air travel.

Blankets and Wine Final Call

STL to visit in Easter after firing Europe manager

Norwegian-based Kenyan rapper STL is expected over the Easter holidays for series of gigs. This move was announced recently by her Kenyan-based manager Charles Mwangi.
The announcement came a few weeks after STL- real name Stella Mwangi – gave her Europe Manager Vincente Modahl the sack.
“Yes she sacked him, remember when STL was last in the country in December, she was just from shooting a music video in UK and he was the one organising it and everything was going haywire,” Charles explained, “Well, a meeting was held and it was found out that he was not doing his job well. He is a good talent manager but not an overall logistics kind of manager.”
Charles Mwangi is currently holding down the fort after the dismissal. Apparently, Norwegian record company that STL is signed to, MTG MUSIC also had creative differences with Vincente.

Google launches Maps for Kenya

Nairobi 31st March 2009

As of today new detailed maps of many Kenyan towns including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru are accessible on Google Maps through any web browser or via Google Maps for mobile on data enabled handsets. The new service means that Google Maps users will now be able to search up to date online maps, look up businesses, advertise for free via Google Maps Local Business Centre, create their own maps and even check locations while they're on the move.

The map data includes a substantial amount of user generated content provided via Google Map Maker as well as thousands of business listings for the wider Nairobi area including more than 50 favorite spots of a number of Kenyan celebrities including Wangari Maathai (Nobel Peace Prize Winner), Julie Gichuru (TV Presenter), Churchill (Comedian) and Humphrey Kayange (Kenya Rugby 7’s Team Captain).

Google Maps in Kenya can be viewed in several ways. The “Map” button shows the traditional map view, ideal for finding an address or planning directions from A to B. To explore in more detail users can choose the “Satellite” button, which includes satellite and aerial photographs. The “Terrain” view shows the physical geography of a place (the hills and mountains). This button is a great choice if you’re heading out to the countryside.

Joe Mucheru, Google's East Africa Lead said:
'We're very excited about the launch today and we hope this is just the beginning for Google Maps in Kenya. Google Maps isn't just searchable digitized maps helping you to find a local place, service or product - our goal is to make information with a geographical dimension available to everyone and to allow users to update the maps and develop on top of them. We believe more accurate, representative local information can greatly improve the breadth of information available about a given area and in turn can help efforts to bolster tourism and business investment.'

Julie Gichuru, TV Presenter who created one of the first My Maps in Kenya showing her favorite places, commented:
'Google Maps in Kenya is a real leap ahead for us. It will open up the country by creating greater understanding of the socio economic situation in the different regions.'

KenyaBuzz is already making use of the Google Maps API on their website. Marta Anna Gloserova from Kenyabuzz said:
"KenyaBuzz provides an online resource for local event information and business listings in Kenya. Google Maps serves as a great platform helping us to provide accurate, comprehensive location-based information for our audience."

Mr. Kimosop from the Mid-Rift Tourism Forum added:
"The Mid-Rift Tourism Forum strives to promote tourism in Kenya and seeks to contribute to increased employment and incomes for host communities. Adding tourism locations on Google Maps creates a free marketing channel and will drive more people to our website and ultimately to the tourist locations"
Google Maps in your pocket:

Information on streets, addresses and local businesses and services will now be accessible via your mobile phone when you're on the road or in places you don't know. Google Maps for mobile can be downloaded for free at www.google.co.ke/gmm . With this tool, users will be able to access detailed maps of Kenya and the world on the go.

Advertising free online without the need for a website:

Google Maps is the perfect product for local businesses: information is available to users and customers who are currently seeking products or services in your area. Companies can now enter for free information about their business, including their address, hours of operation, phone number and photo, and they can also place ads on Google Maps even if they don't have their own website. Users have the option to make searches for companies with similar business in a neighborhood, both via PC or mobile phone - and then they can access provided links and contact details to the respective services.

Update the Map yourself:

A substantial amount of data in Kenya has been provided via our Map Maker product. Google Map Maker allows users to locate, draw, label and provide attributes for local map features, such as roads, parks, or rivers, turning local users into "citizen cartographers." You can join in and update the map yourself by visiting www.google.com/mapmaker.

Build and share your own My Maps:

Create personalized, annotated, customized maps using the My Maps feature on Google Maps. My maps can contain placemarks, lines, shapes, text, photos or videos enabling users to share diverse information with family and friends - from favorite campsites to photos and videos of a holiday or roadtrip. To construct the maps you can also use more sophisticated methods such as maps with advanced content (mapplet) using JavaScript or Google Maps.

Apprentice Africa contestants coming to Kenya

Former Apprentice Africa contestant Anthony Njagi will be saying ‘I do’ to long time fiancée June Komen on April 11 in Nairobi. Anthony, who is currently in Lagos, Nigeria working as an Investment Analyst in the East and Central Africa expansion department at Bank PHB with fellow Kenyan contestant Eddie Njeri Mbugua, will be in Kenya over Easter in time for the nuptials.
According to the groom, the wedding guest list might include most of the season one contestants. Unfortunately the CEO, Biodun Shobanjo won’t be able to attend, as his schedule is tight.
“So far, Ghanaian Isaac Kwabena (the Winner of The Apprentice Africa) is on board. I’m yet to yet to confirm how many more will be coming,” Anthony said, “Eddie is also going to be there and he is actually in my grooms party, as he’s like a brother to me.”
However, it turns out not only will they be coming for their friends wedding they will also be part of a campaign to remind viewers of the yet to be advertised second season of the reality show.

Matonya’s Mother in law: I feel cheated!

The Tanzanian singer, Matonya’ mother-in-law has sent out a bitter email to the press detailing her feeling of being left out in her only daughter’s wedding. Matonya and Miriam exchanged vows in the absence of Dorah Isinika late last year but her father, Zitto Amir was present.
In the email Dorah wrote: “I was a single mother, suffering, taking care of you while your father, a seaman travelled a lot and never sent a single cent. He came to Tanzania when you were 13, still no support, yet I was with you, taking care of you with the meagre salary of a clerk in a Bank. I was in Tanzania and you did not tell me the date of your wedding, till I was back in Europe. What have I done wrong Miriam? Is it now that you know you have a father? I don’t need anything from you except a little respect and love.”

Chingy for TZ as Bow Wow cancels

American rapper Chingy is set to perform at the Leader’s Club in Dar es Salaam this Friday. The Organisers of the said event have confirmed to Tanzanian press that indeed the ‘Right Thurr’ hit maker is Tanzanian bound. Meanwhile, Bow Wow’s much-publicised concert was cancelled because the rapper is currently touring the States promoting his new album “New Jack City II” that will be released today.

Mutinda launches him debut album

Here is presenting Matopeni...

An email from an irate Standard newspaper and KTN viewer

I recieved this email from a very irritated view of KTN and reader of Standard. read on and find out what they he/she is raving about.

The idea of helping the famine-striken families is good and we have no problem with that. What amuses us is how at the Standard Group, the project Mercy Train is a one man show.One man Paul Melly vice chairman. Just look at the Saturday Standard page 8 and 9. The man appears 7 times receiving donations. The other day he was on TV (KTN ofcourse) receiving a donations from some high school boys. One wonders whether Standard does not have other people to whom he can delegate the job. Does the Group have a Corporate Affairs head who cn do the job? That is how dictators are created or create themselves. They want to be the ones to do everything.
In the last few weeks we have seen him doing virtually everything on TV. He was the one presenting the Presenter, a show that he completely ruined. By the way what was Presenter. Didn't Melly hire all the three finalists, so what was it all about? Melly wanted it to look like The Apprentice but he has no drive for it, after all Standard Group is not his company.
There are stories going round Standard that the CEO Paul Wanyaga (who appears twice on page 8 and 9) has been pushed aside and is considering quitting. We saw it on the Presenter presentation evening when Wanyaga was called to give a speech only for Melly to take the mic and the man never spoke.
On the raid memorial day he was pushed to the back benches and never even invited to say a word. Imagine then that he is the Standard CEO.
No wonder we hear that the Group has decided to forcefully deduct 5% from every employees salary for the Melly Train. Ofcourse they will do it but that will be the last time their employees will trust them with their money. But that is Standard business. For now views and Standard readers are sick and tired of seing Melly's dental gap whenever they switch on their TVs or open the pages.

EVENTS UPDATE FOR THE NEXT QUARTER & SUBSCRIPTION TO MARKETING AFRICA MAGAZINE 2009 SERIES

It is our sincere believe that you are keeping afloat in the midst of the very challenging
and turbulent economic environment businesses are currently facing. We wish you the
very best as you steer your campaigns through the murky waters.

We wish to update you on the forthcoming events on the Marketing Africa calender for
your information. The next Nairobi Marketers Night Out will be held on Thursday 14th
May at the Intercontinental Hotel. The Kampala Marketers Nite Out is set for Friday 3rd
April at Kampala Serena Hotel while the Dar es Salaam one is scheduled for Friday 29th
May at Kilimanjaro Hotel Kempinski. The next Nairobi Quiznite will be held on Friday
12th June at The Carnivore Restaurant.

On Marketing Africa magazine mailing list please note that only paid up subscribers are
eligible to receive a copy. Incase you still wish to receive your personal copy you have to
pay up the subscription fee. The fee is Kshs.1,800/= + VAT, covering 6 - issues for 1 year
per person.

All you need to do to subscribe is draw a check in favour of 'Marketing Africa Limited',
and advise us to pick it. We will need your full address for delivery purposes - (postal
/physical/phone). Liase with Rachel or Benson on 020 - 315 276 in our office in case of
any queries on this. Kindly disregard this message if you have already paid up.

We wish you a wonderful weekend,

William A. Kalombo,

From Jars OF Clay, With Love

Christian Gospel act have thier newsletter out, here have a read....



My bandmates and I just returned from an incredible trip to Kenya- just in time to start the 40 Days of Water Challenge. We are making water our only beverage for 40 days, and giving the money we would have spent on coffee, soda, etc, to Blood:Water Mission to support clean water projects in Africa. We’re currently 20 days in, and it’s one of the more challenging things I’ve done in the last 5 years or so. If not for the solidarity of my close friends, I surely would have caved and ordered a venti latte a week ago (and every day since).

But it is a very sobering reminder that there are currently over 1 billion people in the world that don’t have access to clean water. And millions that walk hours a day are only bringing home dirty water- to drink, cook and “clean” with. It just doesn’t seem right, that with all our technology and goodwill, this injustice would still plague so many. I guess the way I am learning to respond is to see this as an opportunity to be engaged, instead of just another problem I can’t fix.

Our time in Africa with friends and partners is a stark reminder that water is the first building block of life. You really can’t do much without it. Kids are sick and can’t go to school. Parents are caring for sick kids and can’t earn an income. And the whole community suffers. The presence of clean water brings life and health and progress.

Today is World Water Day. As we are reminded that clean water is all around us at the twist of a handle, let us be thankful for that access. And let us be prayerful for those that engage daily in a struggle for life. If you are so moved, consider what opportunities you might have to enable someone else access to clean water. One dollar provides clean water for one African for one year. Water = life.

With hope,
Charlie Lowell
Jars of Clay

Nakaaya and M1 in secret wedding ceremony

While the rest of East Africa and the world speculates on whether Tanzanian songstress Nakaaya Sumari is engaged to American rapper M1, we will authoritatively inform you that the couple got hitched in a secret ceremony.
The visibly smitten Nakaaya spoke to us and revealed that they tied the knot in Zanzibar on March 10. “He is an artiste and so am I what option did we have?” she asked, “We will plan for another bigger ceremony which will include his people and my people.”
M1 who is also part of the Dead Prez rap group has relocated to Tanzanian to be close to his boo.
The couple’s relationship is under scrutiny now that the Mr. Politician star featured in CNN’s David McKenzie show- Inside Africa. Now you know what M1 meant when he responded in a past interview about his relationship with Nakaaya. He said: “Nakaaya is a beautiful woman and I will not allow any other man to be with her.” Roger that.

Kenyan acts appointed Malta Ambassadors

It is about that time again when corporate endorsements start flowing in. This time round, Malta Guinness has chosen three big names in the entertainment industry to endorse their brand. Gospel artiste Esther Wahome, disc jockey Adrian Washika (Dj Adrian) and Tanzanian bongo artiste Ambwene Yesaiah have become celebrity brand endorsers for the non-alcoholic energy drink manufactured by East African Breweries.
The three will be part of a new advertising campaign that seeks to reinforce the messaging on the natural, nutritious goodness of Malta Guinness, while educating consumers on the benefits of the beverage across different lifestyle demands.
According to Angela Mwirigi, EABL’s Marketing Manager, “The new campaign has taken the bold step of incorporating strong personalities who are known for their strong convictions and legacies. As Malta Guinness brand ambassadors they will not only stir up conversations, but also break down certain barriers and unveil a host of information that will enable consumers to understand the benefits of Malta Guinness.”
However, an inside source revealed that the deal edges on a seven figure price tag and the brand ambassadors will be given priority in Malta Guinness gigs line-up, at a separate fee.

Blu*3 join Angelina Jolie in fight against trafficking

Ugandan girl group Blu*3 have joined big American showbiz personalities Angelina Jolie and Ricky Martin as well as British actress Emma Thompson to fight Human trafficking. The campaign entails mobilising people against illegal immigration and human trafficking. The three pop divas, Lee, Jaqui and Mya are the first African music group to be named goodwill ambassadors for the International Organisation of Migration (IOM).
Blu*3 are set to perform at international music festivals in Sweden, the US, Dubai and the UK as part of their role. They will also go on an anti-illegal immigration and anti-slavery tour which will feature Kenya’s Nameless, Burundi's Kidumu and Tanzania's TID. To commemorate their achievement, Blu*3 have released Fly Away, a song about the evils of human trafficking. As the soundtrack of the upcoming IOM documentary, the song will be aired on radio and TV stations worldwide.

Akon launches anti-slavery song

R&B star Akon has launched a song to commemorate the victims of the slave trade, past and present. He debuted "Blood Into Gold" at the United Nations, New York, on Wednesday - the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery. "I will do my part to spread the word - a lot of my US friends are not aware of the history [of slavery]," he said. Akon, real name Aliaune Thiam, was born in St Louis, Missouri, but spent much of his youth living in Senegal.

Channel O GM gets a taste of matatu culture

The Channel O General Manager Yolisa Phahle was on a mission, one that would enlighten her on the Kenyan music culture and experience. She landed in the country on Tuesday night and by Wednesday her orientation was over. Yolisa had experienced Kenyan music first hand by riding in a matatu.
“The music gets you entertained,” she said, adding that she found it interesting the older passengers who rode in the matatu were okay with the loud music.
Her ride was in a No. 9 matatu to California, Eastleigh where she meet up with the producers from the Calif records stable and later made visits to Kijiji records and Homeboyz DJ academy.
During her visit, Yolisa managed to get three videos, which will be played on Channel O inthenext few weeks. The videos are those of rapper Madtraxx, Ukoo Flani and Kanjii Mbugua.
Yolisa revealed, eventually Kenya will have a full hour slot where strictly Kenyan tunes will be played back to back. She leaves the country today morning.

Nokia Long and Loud Bash

Nokia Invites you to the Nokia Long and Loud @ Backspin on Saturday March 28th at Carnivore restaurant. Catch the very latest in the world of digital entertainment.

For the lovers of Blankets and Wine

BLANKETS & WINE LIVE AT FORTY THIEVES DIANI
 
We hope you are well! If you would like to stay at the Diani Sea Lodge (Right Next to Forty thieves), we have worked it out to 2,500 per person sharing per night for B&B
This is a great deal. If you would like to take this offer, please email Erik at dianisea@africaonline.co.ke and copy Shyro Koinange (Head of Logistics B&W V) on shyrokoinange@gmail.com . Put in your email that you would like accommodation to attend Blankets &Wine V
 
Falcon Shuttle services provide direct buses from Nairobi-Ukunda at 1000 a ticket one way. Please note they only travel at night i.e. they leave at 9:30 pm from Nairobi and from Ukunda as well. (So if you need to be at work on tue morn) you may want to leave straight after the gig and not stay for the after party. For more info/book please contact Shyro Koinange on shyrokoinange@gmail.com and copy on Muthoni@muthonimusic.com.



Please let me know if you have a van/bus/jet that you and your friends are taking and that way maybe we can work something out together..

 
More on the artists performing at B&W V, “Kaz” “Muthoni” “Mutinda” “ Abbi” “Maia” http://www.muthonimusic.com/
 
About the venue:
http://www.flamboyantdiani.com/index.html
 
Pictures from B&W IV:
http://www.muthonimusic.com/

MUTHONI NDONGA

Redsan and Nameless are serious MTVbase contenders

We have it in good authority that a male musician is most likely to win the chance to be in this year’s MTVbase Making the Video Challenge with Shell project.
The two in close contention for the annual TV reality show, Nameless and Redsan are said to be enjoying high ratings as their music is said to be the most requested on MTVbase so far, our source said.
Last year, Mrs Nameless – or if you like Wahu - and Uganda’s Bobi Wine made a global TV debut on MTVbase with their song ‘Little Things You Do’ mentored by US director Melina Matsoukis. And the year before that, Nikki’s ‘Kipofu’ was directed by little know American director Taj Stansberry.
This year’s winner for the chance to make a video for a new song will be announced in May. MTVbase Making the Video with Shell is an initiative aiming to uplift the African music industry by sharing best practice and forging collaborations between local music video talent and top international video directors.

Redsan and Nameless are serious MTVbase contenders

We have it in good authority that a male musician is most likely to win the chance to be in this year’s MTVbase Making the Video Challenge with Shell project.
The two in close contention for the annual TV reality show, Nameless and Redsan are said to be enjoying high ratings as their music is said to be the most requested on MTVbase so far, our source said.
Last year, Mrs Nameless – or if you like Wahu - and Uganda’s Bobi Wine made a global TV debut on MTVbase with their song ‘Little Things You Do’ mentored by US director Melina Matsoukis. And the year before that, Nikki’s ‘Kipofu’ was directed by little know American director Taj Stansberry.
This year’s winner for the chance to make a video for a new song will be announced in May. MTVbase Making the Video with Shell is an initiative aiming to uplift the African music industry by sharing best practice and forging collaborations between local music video talent and top international video directors.

Harambee Star player grounded by Hey

A Harambee Stars player who plies his trade in Europe got a rude shock on Tuesday when National Coach Antoine Hey stopped him from spending a night outside their residential camp at Karasani Sports Complex. The player has a reputation of sneaking out of camp whenever the team is in training and returning the next morning after a night of partying at a popular club along Koinange Street. He was once said to be in a relationship with a KTN presenter.

Nakaaya engaged!

Nakaaya Sumari is engaged; at least if the Tanzanian media is to be believed. Last week we broke the story that the singer had been spotted in Dubai with MI of Dead Prezz before she flew in for The Patricia Show. Nakaaya is said to have made the announcement during a recent interview saying that she and MI were not only dating but engaged as well. MI features in her Mr. Politician video.
While he was in Tanzanian last year when asked about Nakaaya he reportedly said, “Nakaaya is a beautiful woman and I wouldn’t allow any other guy to be with her. If it did happen there would be big trouble.”

Emcee Africa search is back

The only reality TV show, that showcases the continent’s most extensive hip-hop talent search, is back. Emcee Africa is a 13-episode reality competition, which will feature hip hop emcees from five countries Kenya, Botswana, South Africa, Ghana and Nigeria. Last year Kenya was represented by Big Mike. The show which will air on Channel O in May will have the competitors fighting it out for the grand price of $10,000 (Sh790,000) and a chance to feature on a new track with three African hip-hop veterans. This original track will be accompanied by a music video, shot to commemorate the occasion.
They will be required to performance, freestyle and battling, after which, two emcees from each country will be nominated by their judging panel to go forward and compete in the Emcee Africa grand final, to be held in Botswana in July. Emcee Africa Kenyan audition will be on Saturday, 23 May at a yet to be announced venue.
This year, Mi phone will reward talented emcees for awesome performances with their stylish mobile handsets. As well as members of the public who attend the live events and as part of its own CSR initiative tens of thousands of free Mi-Choice condoms will be
distributed at the Emcee Africa events.

Former CID chief’s son back in hospital

Josh K Mwangi son to former director of CID Joseph Kamau was on Wednesday admitted into hospital. Mwangi’s son was admitted for a knee operation following complications from a car accident. He and Prime Minister’s Raila son, Raila Odinga Junior were involved in an accident last December. The said accident took place along Valley road. Police is still investigated it and the report is yet to be released.

Former CID chief’s son back in hospital

Josh K Mwangi son to former director of CID Joseph Kamau was on Wednesday admitted into hospital. Mwangi’s son was admitted for a knee operation following complications from a car accident. He and Prime Minister’s Raila son, Raila Odinga Junior were involved in an accident last December. The said accident took place along Valley road. Police is still investigated it and the report is yet to be released.

Lupita Nyongo gets full scholarship to Yale

Filmmaker and model Lupita Nyongo’s dreams of getting a degree in Theatre art was that much closer to being fulfilled on Monday when she finally made a decision and chose one from three prestigious American universities that had all accepted her application.
Lupita, the daughter of Medical Services minister Anyang Nyongo, applied in January for a three-year course. On Monday, she finally picked the Ivy League Yale from a choice of three including New York University (NYU) and University of California San Diego (UCSD).
Dorothy Nyongo, Lupita’s mum, said that her daughter, who is abroad, was ecstatic at the opportunity of being one of the 16 students that the university admits each year. Lupita also became the third African to be accepted into Yale and got a full scholarship.
Lupita was part of the Kenyan crew that shot Wahu and Bobi Wine’s video ‘Little Things You Do’ and emerged winners in the 2008 MTV Making The Video with Shell Contest.
Asked whom Lupita got the theatre gene from, Mrs Nyong’o said, “Her dad was in theatre but it’s her own thing.”

Hemedi for Mr Handsome

Reality show star and Usher look-a-like, Hemedi Suleiman has finally gotten a deal that suits him perfectly. This Saturday, he will be the showstopper at a Tanzanian talent search dubbed Mr Handsome. This deal was tailor-made for him after he released his latest single ‘Unachotaka ni Mapenzi’ translated, what you need is love.
Well, The TPF11 contestant is making inroads with his music and his looks. Methusela Magese the organiser seconds the opinion. He said that Hemedi is one of the few acts that are lucky to be part of the talent search that will take place in New Africa hotel, Dar es Salaam.
The judges for Mr Handsome include BBA’s Richard Bezuidenhout, Miss Tanzania 2008 Nasreen Kareem and actor Steven Kanumba.

Kenyans missing at the International Jazz festival

Unlike last year where Valerie Kimani represented Kenya at the annual Johannesburg International Jazz Festival, the upcoming (and more prestigious) Cape Town International Jazz festival next month will have no Kenyan acts appear. This year’s festival will feature 40 international and African acts gathering at the Cape Town Convention Center to celebrate what is now known as ” Africa’s grandest gathering”. This year’s line-up of artists include: Dianne Reeves, Mos Def, Zap Mama, Jonathan Butler, Hugh Masekela, Freshly Ground, Abigail Kubeka, Al Foster Quartet, Arturo Lledo, Dave Liebman Quartet, UK based band the Incognito, France based Magic Malik, Napalma and Ringo Madlingozi among others.

Morgan Heritage and DJ Blitz Mombasa dates clash

The Easter Holiday will see two foreign entertainers in the country for two different gigs on the same night. Reggae band Morgan Heritage and UK DJ Shorty Blitz will each be in the country courtesy of two different sponsors. However their Coast dates are set to clash with both performing on April 11 at venues that are within a kilometre of each other.
The Jamaican reggae group concert is organised by footballer Dennis Oliech’s event’s company, Fishbourne. They will be live on stage at the Mombasa beach hotel. While, The UK DJ will be spinning at the Smirnoff Uncompromised grande finale show on the same day at Tembo Disco.
Fishbourne’s Nixon Onywanda said the situation would not be a problem, at least not for the reggae lovers. “Everyone has their own market they are targeting,” adding that the gate charges will be Sh1,000 advance and Sh1500 at the gate.
Juliana Kagwa, the Smirnoff brand manager, said in her speech on Tuesday. “Please note that we go for quality and not huge numbers for uncompromised parties. To crown our efforts, we reach out to party lovers and all looking for a fun night out to come join us at the Tembo Disco for Kenya’s purest party.”
Tickets for the function will be priced at Sh300 each and with each purchase a reveller will get one Smirnoff Ice.

Is G-Money leaving Homeboyz?

The industry grapevine is rife with word that radio presenter, G-Money, is at loggerheads with the Homeboyz Entertainment directors and might leave the station.
For almost three weeks now, G-Money has been off air though he is said to be currently out of the country. A source close to G-Money said, “He suspended himself from the show until his demands are met. He wants to get part of the financial gains from the show as well as shares in the company.”
The Rabar brothers Alf, John and Mike own the station.
G Money single-handed started an unlicensed hobby broadcasting radio station called Bassline FM in London 1993. Bassline was highly influential on the pirate radio scene in London, because the people behind the station were in their teens. His show “The Bassment” was a key fixture on the station.
Meanwhile, Homeboyz’ contract with the former BBC 1Xtra presenter ends this year.
At the time of going to press, none of the Rabar’s could be reached for comment as they were said to be in meetings.

Collo of Klepto retires from music

Collo of the rap group Kleptomaniax has told Word Is that he is retiring from music and is leaving Kenya to relocate in the UK where he plans to venture into other businesses. This announcement comes in the wake plans to launch his second (and now final) album, Now is The Time this Friday.
“It is the last album we are doing as Kleptomaniax, we will be exploring other things,” adding, “I will be coming back to Kenya of course,” Collo,…age…, said.
The rest of the trio are Roba and Ulopa, who replaced Nyashinsky, who is currently in the US, will be on stage for the last time together at Divino’s for the Listening Party.
The final album features big names like M-Net Idols judge Scar, Bigpin and even Nyashinsky.

Kenyan filmmakers win MTV contest

The filmmakers behind Wahu and Bobi’s music video Little Things You do were awarded yesterday at The Stanley.
Ngethe Gitungo, Steve Kibunja and Roy Ogolla each received a state of the art Mac Book pro in recognition of their accomplishments after winning the MTV Making the Video with Shell 2008 contest.
Lupita Nyongo who was the producer of the video was absent as she was out of the country, but her older sister, Zawadi who recently survived a road accident, received the prize on her behalf.
The Kenyan team who were mentored by US director Melina Matsoukis trounced crews from South Africa, Ghana and Nigeria who also came up with concepts of making a video. The making of the Kenyan video was aired on MTVbase under the yearly project, MTV Making The Video Challenge with Shell last year October.
They won by popular votes from viewers across Africa who voted Wahu and Bobi Wine’s video as the most creative.

BBC newsreader heading to Citizen

For the umpteenth time, another member of the fourth estate makes a move to Royal media. BBC radio newscaster Kamau Kang’ethe is making the move. Kamau was the producer of the hourly news updates on the station. Kamau who had worked for BBC for the last three years reportedly resigned to take up a senior position on one of the Royal Media Services radios. Our source claims that he might wind up in the position of Programmes Controller.

Producer claims Sanaipei and Calif short changed him

RnB diva Sanaipei Thande and Big shot production house Calif Records are being accused of plagarism but have come out fighting.
Producer Ruff Enuff is accusing the two of using his original composition to come up with the song Najuta. Ruff claims he produced the song in 2007 before the election and gave the copy of the CD to the Sanaipei.
“I’m a bitter man, Sanaipei did not pay for the track and has not called me ever since,” he said adding that the Calif Records production that was released is a “a copy and paste of my original track. The only difference is that they changed the last part, where I had used live violins and I guess they couldn’t get one to do that for them.”
Ruff says the song he produced was also titled Najuta and all that he wants is for his track to be rightfully credited for his efforts.
In her defence however, Sanaipei says, “I wrote the song and he made the first track I wasn’t pleased with it the track. I re-recorded the song, I’m not saying he is not the original producer, but he recorded the track on dead air at Clemo’s. He has no rights to this song.”
On the issue of payment she says: “I did not pay for it because I did not use his track.”
A Calif Records rep also denies Ruff Enuff’s claims saying, “The track laying was done from scratch. If you listen to the beat it is a continuation to her hit song with Jua Cali, Kwaheri. Calif has a stock of tracks that we haven’t used yet. These claims are ridiculous. Also why is he making an issue now when the song is a hit?”

African Heritage festival coming

On Sunday, March 29, from 6 to 11 pm, at the Hotel Intercontinental, 400 invited guests will experience the continent’s most spectacular show – a living museum of Africa’s heritage in costumes, textiles, dance, shape and sound. The African Heritage Design Company will bring together the living treasures of over 16 of Africa’s richest cultures during a performance featuring Kenya’s finest musicians, dancers, acrobats, designers and models- - custodians of the legacy of culture. The show presents the richness of Africa’s 2lst Century society from a unique awareness of the past. The evening will feature Kenya’s African Heritage Festival, perfected over three decades of shows and tours by African Heritage promoting Kenya and Africa, while the second part of the show highlights the leading fashion designers of Kenya over the past forty years. The finale is a shimmering collection of beadwork by Kenyan women. Nyatiti master soloist Ayub Ogada (Job Seda), Kenya’s most famous international musician will perform before and during the show. The show ends with a stirring “Orutu” dance with traditional Luo musical instruments from Western Kenya. Plans are now underway to take the show on a tour of America in honour of the first African American President of the US, Barack Obama. This show is a preview of the proposed AH tour of the US.
The day will also be a celebration of African Heritage, and the legacy of two of its most famous collectors, who spent their lives preserving, promoting and protecting African culture, the late Joseph and Sheila Murumbi. Joseph Murumbi was Kenya’s first foreign Minister and the nation’s second Vice President.

Juliani to launch album

Gospel rapper Juliani will be launching his album in April 18 at the Mavuno Dome. The self-proclaimed urban poet lyricist was the first ever-Kenyan artist to be signed to a full-fledged UK-based record label, Gatwitch Records. His stint with the label gave rise to his Mtaa Mentality album.
Although the album is already out and in stores, Juliani will hold a launch where he will perform songs off his album. To back him up will be other artistes such as Eric Wainaina, Kanjii, Astar, Michelle, Danco, Brian King and Wenyeji.

Claws out for Tyra’s Africa’s Top Model

A free-to-air South African TV station, e.tv, has said that last Tuesday’s invitation for applicants for contestants on the first season of Tyra Bank’s Africa’s Next Top Model, is a scam.
The TV station made the accusation after South African businessman Tom Kelly said that Africa’s Next Top Model would be screened in mid-April by the station and that he and Tyra Banks the owner of the US franchise of the TV show, would search for models for the show.
Vasili Vass, e.tv’s spokesman, said: “The station is not associated with the show. We suspect that this whole thing is a scam, as they want people to pay R400 (Sh 3,350) into an account.”
Kelly later dismissed Vasili terming it as sour grapes because the channel had lost its rights to host the show. Young women from Nigeria, South Africa, Mozambique, Swaziland, Botswana, Zambia, Ivory Coast and Cape Verde Islands will compete for the prestigious title of Africa’s Next Top Model 2009. The first 100 contestants selected on March 29 will go through an elimination process, which will take place on April 10 in Johannesburg.
The winner will walk away with a $100,000 (Sh8 million) modelling contract with IMG Models, a six-month contract as the face of Louis Vuitton as well as the chance to co-present on The Tyra Banks Show.

Prezzo Is a daddy

King of bling Prezzo is officially a dad. Prezzo and wife Daisy Kiplagat, who got married in December, are parents to a baby girl. The couple welcomed their bundle of love on Wednesday. Keep it here for more details.

Nasty Thomas joins the daddy’s club

Another one for the baby daddy club is half of the Deux Vultures duo, Nasty Thomas. He is father to an American born baby boy. Nasty Thomas, whose real name is Thomas Konzanga now lives in Indiana. The baby came on Monday. A source close to the family says baby was named Ryan. That hasn’t stopped the now daddy and performer from booking gigs. He is scheduled to perform at a show in a restaurant called Cafe Ibex in Seattle, Washington.

Naught By Nature Show fails to launch

Last Saturday’s scheduled Kampala show by American celebrities Naught By Nature did not happen. The organisers behind it, Ugandan rapper Navio and KT Promotions failed to raise the down payment requested by the international stars. According to Ugandan reports, Navio – real name Daniel Kigozi - failed to raise his part of the contribution that was to go into the down payment fee. This was because his mother who was also part financier of the deal also balked at paying up.

Interactive Media Services to support Jethwa bid for the best job in the world…

Interactive Media Services (IMS) and Moota Telecom will use technology to support Kiran Jethwa bid for the best job in the world competition scheduled to take place in New Zealand.

IMS General Manager Kiran Dhadialla said her firm will deploy state of the art technology to create awareness and rally support for Jethwa.

‘‘Jethwa is the only African to reach the top 50 applicants from a pool of 34,000 applicants across the globe for the Best Job in the world’’ said Dhadialla.

Kiran said the objective of pushing the Kiran Jethwa campaign was to get the maximum number of people to vote for Kiran on the www.islandreefjob.com website.

‘‘’All outgoing news alerts and subscription messages will have a message showing mobile subscribers how to vote for Kiran using the www.islandreefjob.com site’’ said Dhadialla.

The IMS/Moota to support Jethwa will further enhance Kenya’s position in the global tourism map while raising awareness about Kenya’s superior tourism products.

‘’We are positive that Kiran Jethwa will open marketing doors for Kenya if he gets this job. The interest generated around this competition will translate to increased tourist arrivals in Kenya and exposure to new global markets’’ said Dhadialla.

Dhadialla said IMS will set up a service for Kiran Jethwa where mobile subscribers will be able to get updates on Kiran’s progress as well as other alerts like fitness and cooking tips.
If Kiran Jethwa gets the job, he will be the caretaker of the Islands of the Great Barrier Reef There are a few minor tasks that need to be taken care of, but the most important duty is to report back to Tourism Queensland (and the world) and let the world know what’s taking place on the Islands of the Great Barrier Reef.
Kiran Jethwa will be based in Hamilton Island, the largest inhabited island in the region which is located just off the coast of Queensland with a wide range of restaurants, activities, shops and tours.
The successful candidate will live above the Great Barrier Reef with a salary package of Kes 9 million for six months and all expenses paid.

DJ N-Ruff leaves Homeboyz

Two weeks after DJ N-Ruff famed for his stint in the new NTV music show, ReUp, left Homeboyz, he finally breaks the silence on why he left.
“I Left to concentrate on my Event/clothing line company as well as my studies,” N-Ruff stated. He is currently studying Political Science and Sociology at Catholic University. “I needed to grow and as such a move was what I had to do, there is no beef and none should be read into it,” the 23-year old said.

Rugby ‘judge’ spills the beans

The guest speaker at British council’s Leadership forum on Wednesday night hosted at The Stanley was the gently amusing Richard Omwela, the Managing Partner, Hamilton, Harrison & Matthews and long serving Kenya Rugby Football Union (KRFU) chairman.
He gave a talk about leadership, and of course during the talk, Omwela who is known as ‘Judge’ in the rugby circles spilt the beans on why he publicly turned down government appointment to be one, back in 2001. The audience was left in laughter as he described the whole incident in a comical manner and later termed the appointment as a chance to “balance the tribal equation.”
“I got a call. I rushed to the high court and I found them waiting for me. They pointed at a corner and said, ‘There is a gown there for you, you are going to be sworn in tomorrow at the high court.’ And I asked them ‘Who said?’ and they said ‘We the government have decided that you are becoming a judge,’ so I asked how much do judges earn? And they said, ‘Come in tomorrow you will find out after the swearing in.’ The more questions I asked, the more irritated and unobtrusive they became. I was given an hour to decide, after which they would send the names for the Gazette notice.”
Omwela turned down the offer citing an extremely short notice, lack of prior consultation, and lack of information or even a sense of clarity as to the terms and conditions of work.

African Icons show to starts soon

Late last year we let you in on a yet to be released documentary film series from M-Net called Great Africans. On that show visionaries from the continents past and present such as Wangari Maathai, Julius Nyerere, Nelson Mandela, Haile Selassie and Patrice Lumumba would be seen being interviewed.
The series is now in the can and ready to air and will be screened starting April 5.
Wanuri Kahiu’s one-hour documentary profile of Nobel Peace Prize winner Dr. Wangari Maathai will be the first of the seven films to be aired. “It’s intimidating, I was really scared because I really want more than anything to be able to tell a beautiful story about Wangari Maathai. Something that will inspire people the same way I was inspired when I read her book,” Wanuri told us.
The other documentaries will be aired every Sunday as follows, Patrice Lumumba (April 12), Julius Nyerere (April19), Wole Soyinka (April 26), Thomas Sankara (May 3), Emperor Haile Selassie (May 10) and Nelson Mandela (May 17).

Nakaaya flown into Kenya for the Patricia Show

As Kenyans and the rest of the world were watching Nakaaya Sumari’s interview on CNN’s Inside Africa on Wednesday morning, Nakaaya was on a plane to Kenya from Dubai. The bongo songstress was with ‘friend’ rapper M1 of Dead Prez in Dubai and they had been expected to travel together. However, the controversial American rapper couldn’t come to Kenya because he was booked show this weekend in Brooklyn.
Anyhow, our source claims that the makers of the Patricia Show paid for her flight to facilitate for her Wednesday morning appearance on the M-Net show. The new show, was shot on location at Film Studios, Nairobi. It will feature various artistes like Sauti Soul, Lam, Harry Kimani among others.
CNN’s David McKenzie in Dar es Salaam interviewed the Bongo songstress, who just recently got signed by Sony Music during a five-minute slot. The Mr Politician hit maker is currently shopping for possible collabo partners in the country.

Afro fusion acts get online deal

With the creation and launch of a new Kenyan website to help musicians derive financial gain from selling their music on the Internet, a number of afro fusion acts will now be receiving a cheque from the sale of their albums downloaded through the website.
Among the first entertainers who will have the go at KenTunes, which is modelled along Apple’s Itunes, are Kayamba Africa, Milele, Zannaziki, Joseph Kamaru, Bana Kadori, Maroon Commandos and K-South.
The website has over 100 Kenyan albums, courtesy of Kenyan record label and world music distributor Soundafrica who signed out its entire catalogue to be distributed digitally on the Kentunes site.
The site will provide local artists access to Kenyans living in the Diaspora in addition to promoting and marketing their albums overseas. “Our website allows artists to think global when it comes to selling their music,” said Kevin Muthuri, one of the founders. “Kenyan musicians can depend on us to deliver their locally available albums across geographical boundaries.”
The artistes can track the sale of their albums downloaded through the website and receive proceeds from their sales locally.