BAABA MAAL CALLS FOR FOCUS ON COMBATING POVERTY

World-renowned African music star Baaba Maal joins the BBC World Service Trust in call for renewed focus on creative use of the media and access to information in combating poverty.
Maal will give an exclusive performance and interview Tuesday, 28 September at Nairobi National Museum to highlight the role of media and communication in combating poverty.
Baaba Maal will speak in support of the work of the BBC World Service Trust, the BBC's international development agency, which uses media and communication to reduce poverty and promote human rights.
"In Africa, the first step to combat poverty is to actively enable people to access the information they need. Education is all about getting information out. We need people to be able to raise their voices and be heard on both local and international issues", he says.
The BBC World Service Trust in Africa works across ten countries - including Kenya - reaching millions of people across the continent with life-changing information on health, humanitarian, governance and livelihoods issues.
It produces TV and radio drama, interactive discussion programmes and provides journalism training and support materials to help tackle a range of development concerns.
This creative use of the media can get messages out and give access to vital information on a scale that conventional methods have simply missed.
"We are delighted to be bringing Baaba Maal to Nairobi", says Caroline Ford, Africa Regional Director. "His passionate call for open access to information, education and innovation, and recognition of the power of the media in facilitating lasting social change is echoed in the work and objectives of the BBC World Service Trust."
"Baaba's is a unique African voice, and we are honoured to be working with him" she adds.
Baaba Maal will perform in front of an audience of invited guests at the Nairobi National Museum, following an interview on his career to date, development interests, and plans for the future by the BBC's Tom Japanni.
"My aim is to reach a new generation of young Africans - Africans who have become connected and want to be a force for change", he says. "In Africa, we use music to learn about our history and social responsibilities and actions. I want to use my voice to make Africa (and African issues) more prominent and to show the rest of the world that Africa belongs at the forefront of the 21st century."

BAABA MAAL CALLS FOR FOCUS ON COMBATING POVERTY

World-renowned African music star Baaba Maal joins the BBC World Service Trust in call for renewed focus on creative use of the media and access to information in combating poverty.
Maal will give an exclusive performance and interview Tuesday, 28 September at Nairobi National Museum to highlight the role of media and communication in combating poverty.
Baaba Maal will speak in support of the work of the BBC World Service Trust, the BBC's international development agency, which uses media and communication to reduce poverty and promote human rights.
"In Africa, the first step to combat poverty is to actively enable people to access the information they need. Education is all about getting information out. We need people to be able to raise their voices and be heard on both local and international issues", he says.
The BBC World Service Trust in Africa works across ten countries - including Kenya - reaching millions of people across the continent with life-changing information on health, humanitarian, governance and livelihoods issues.
It produces TV and radio drama, interactive discussion programmes and provides journalism training and support materials to help tackle a range of development concerns.
This creative use of the media can get messages out and give access to vital information on a scale that conventional methods have simply missed.
"We are delighted to be bringing Baaba Maal to Nairobi", says Caroline Ford, Africa Regional Director. "His passionate call for open access to information, education and innovation, and recognition of the power of the media in facilitating lasting social change is echoed in the work and objectives of the BBC World Service Trust."
"Baaba's is a unique African voice, and we are honoured to be working with him" she adds.
Baaba Maal will perform in front of an audience of invited guests at the Nairobi National Museum, following an interview on his career to date, development interests, and plans for the future by the BBC's Tom Japanni.
"My aim is to reach a new generation of young Africans - Africans who have become connected and want to be a force for change", he says. "In Africa, we use music to learn about our history and social responsibilities and actions. I want to use my voice to make Africa (and African issues) more prominent and to show the rest of the world that Africa belongs at the forefront of the 21st century."

TPF IS BACK: HERE ARE ALL THE DETAILS

Phase one of the Tusker Project Fame 4 Auditions end on a high note talent, drama and humour displayed at auditions
Twenty five representatives from five countries- Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and new entrant Southern Sudan, have been shortlisted after the Tusker Project Fame Academy phase one auditions spanning five weeks. The countries are fighting it out to produce the fourth Tusker Project Fame edition winner.
“The talent witnessed during the auditions is beyond anything we have seen in recent years. Majority of the contestants had superb voices and their mastery of instruments was really good. The turnout this season was also the highest in all countries. We are looking forward to an exciting show, “says Tusker Regional Marketing Manager Mburu Karanja.
Audition judges like Ian Mbugua had a challenging time choosing the best among the throngs of music enthusiasts, who poured in to the audition centers for a chance to be famous and win the coveted Ksh5 million recording contract.



Due to the keen interest of music enthusiasts from across the region to participate, long queues were witnessed as hundreds waited for the start of the process.
While some could be seen belting various tunes as they rehearsed for the big moment, an expectant mood hang over the long queues with occasional jokes, flattering and imagery of the ultimate superstar life doing the rounds.
The top 25 finalists drawn from the five countries will audition in Nairobi on September 25 and 26 for a chance to compete on the show.
Out of the 25 finalists only 18 will get a chance to be shortlisted and unveiled during performances at the Gala show on October 10.



During the Gala show the 18 contestants will perform before the judges and an audience. Three other contestants will be eliminated during the gala show, paving way for the 15 participants, who will join the Tusker Project Fame Academy on the same day.
Karanja said while at the Academy, the finalists will be taken through rigorous voice, performance, and other training sessions for them to attain skills needed to be a music superstar.
Nomination shows are scheduled from 17 October with the first eviction show on the 23 October where the audience will have a chance to vote and save their favorite contestants from eviction.

TPF IS BACK: HERE ARE ALL THE DETAILS

Phase one of the Tusker Project Fame 4 Auditions end on a high note talent, drama and humour displayed at auditions
Twenty five representatives from five countries- Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and new entrant Southern Sudan, have been shortlisted after the Tusker Project Fame Academy phase one auditions spanning five weeks. The countries are fighting it out to produce the fourth Tusker Project Fame edition winner.
“The talent witnessed during the auditions is beyond anything we have seen in recent years. Majority of the contestants had superb voices and their mastery of instruments was really good. The turnout this season was also the highest in all countries. We are looking forward to an exciting show, “says Tusker Regional Marketing Manager Mburu Karanja.
Audition judges like Ian Mbugua had a challenging time choosing the best among the throngs of music enthusiasts, who poured in to the audition centers for a chance to be famous and win the coveted Ksh5 million recording contract.



Due to the keen interest of music enthusiasts from across the region to participate, long queues were witnessed as hundreds waited for the start of the process.
While some could be seen belting various tunes as they rehearsed for the big moment, an expectant mood hang over the long queues with occasional jokes, flattering and imagery of the ultimate superstar life doing the rounds.
The top 25 finalists drawn from the five countries will audition in Nairobi on September 25 and 26 for a chance to compete on the show.
Out of the 25 finalists only 18 will get a chance to be shortlisted and unveiled during performances at the Gala show on October 10.



During the Gala show the 18 contestants will perform before the judges and an audience. Three other contestants will be eliminated during the gala show, paving way for the 15 participants, who will join the Tusker Project Fame Academy on the same day.
Karanja said while at the Academy, the finalists will be taken through rigorous voice, performance, and other training sessions for them to attain skills needed to be a music superstar.
Nomination shows are scheduled from 17 October with the first eviction show on the 23 October where the audience will have a chance to vote and save their favorite contestants from eviction.

ALAINE CONFIRMED FOR KENYA IN NOVEMBER

It's official Jamaican siren and dancehall star Alaine Laughton will be headlining a show in Kenya.
Hot Secrets had talked to DJ John Rabar of Homeboyz earlier where he denied he had knowledge of Alaine performing at the November Sepetuka 3 gig. But i can confirm that she will be in the city for the same gig. The venue and date will be announced.
The dancehall hitmaker is famed for hits such as Rise in Love and Without You. She was born in New Jersey, but moved to Jamaica at the age of three.
Arif 'SupaCoop' Cooper is also said to be joining the Jamaican singer for the event.

ALAINE CONFIRMED FOR KENYA IN NOVEMBER

It's official Jamaican siren and dancehall star Alaine Laughton will be headlining a show in Kenya.
Hot Secrets had talked to DJ John Rabar of Homeboyz earlier where he denied he had knowledge of Alaine performing at the November Sepetuka 3 gig. But i can confirm that she will be in the city for the same gig. The venue and date will be announced.
The dancehall hitmaker is famed for hits such as Rise in Love and Without You. She was born in New Jersey, but moved to Jamaica at the age of three.
Arif 'SupaCoop' Cooper is also said to be joining the Jamaican singer for the event.

GUINNESS TAKES THE GAME TO KISUMU CITY

The second Guinness Football Challenge recruitment drive was hosted at the KBL grounds in Kisumu, where hundreds of Guinness lovers attended with people streaming into the venue from as early as 5 pm.
The first recruitment drive was held in Meru on 28 th August which saw the top fifteen teams short-listed to appear on the adrenalin-filled Guinness Football Challenge TV game show.
Set in an inviting and captivating ambience, the party featured a variety of music played by the most outstanding local DJs, hype men and a giant mobile screen airing the day’s English premier league matches live.



The party also showcased a dream collaboration between Nameless and Onyango Alemo continuing the tradition of great performances at Guinness parties.
The football challenge recruitment drive brought together hundreds of football lovers who took their perennial competition to the specially erected Guinness football field in the ultimate search for the best football duo in the city.
The teams were taken through various activities testing their knowledge of the game plus their football skills which included dribbling,tackling and goal scoring. Thirty teams were finally selected and will have a shot at taking part in the Guinness Football Challenge TV game show.




The Guinness Football Challenge game show is aired very Friday on KTN and is hosted by Kenya’s popular radio presenter and self proclaimed number one football fan, Maina Kageni.
In line with East African breweries Responsible drinking campaign there was plenty of water and food available for the lovers of the Greatness of Guinness. WE ID personnel were also on site to ensure that no underage person gained access to the venue.

GUINNESS TAKES THE GAME TO KISUMU CITY

The second Guinness Football Challenge recruitment drive was hosted at the KBL grounds in Kisumu, where hundreds of Guinness lovers attended with people streaming into the venue from as early as 5 pm.
The first recruitment drive was held in Meru on 28 th August which saw the top fifteen teams short-listed to appear on the adrenalin-filled Guinness Football Challenge TV game show.
Set in an inviting and captivating ambience, the party featured a variety of music played by the most outstanding local DJs, hype men and a giant mobile screen airing the day’s English premier league matches live.



The party also showcased a dream collaboration between Nameless and Onyango Alemo continuing the tradition of great performances at Guinness parties.
The football challenge recruitment drive brought together hundreds of football lovers who took their perennial competition to the specially erected Guinness football field in the ultimate search for the best football duo in the city.
The teams were taken through various activities testing their knowledge of the game plus their football skills which included dribbling,tackling and goal scoring. Thirty teams were finally selected and will have a shot at taking part in the Guinness Football Challenge TV game show.




The Guinness Football Challenge game show is aired very Friday on KTN and is hosted by Kenya’s popular radio presenter and self proclaimed number one football fan, Maina Kageni.
In line with East African breweries Responsible drinking campaign there was plenty of water and food available for the lovers of the Greatness of Guinness. WE ID personnel were also on site to ensure that no underage person gained access to the venue.

EX-NBA STAR STEVE SMITH IN KENYA

On Saturday, the finals for the Sprite Slam Basketball tournament will be graced by ex NBA star Steven Smith to identify young talent.
Steven will jet into the country on Thursday, September 23, afternoon in preparation for the finals at the Railway Club.
He will conduct training sessions together with Kenyan National Basketball Association in which he will identify the best 3 to fly to the USA and attend the NBA boot camp.



Steven, born March 31, 1969, in Highland Park, MI, attended Pershing High School. He went to college at Michigan State University where he was a star point guard.
Smith was selected fifth overall by the Miami Heat in the 1991 NBA Draft. His rookie season, Smith averaged 12.0 ppg and earned a spot on the 1992 NBA All-Rookie First Team.
He played in Miami for three seasons before he was traded to the Atlanta Hawks just as the 1994-95 season was getting underway. Smith played for the Hawks for five seasons, including the 1997-98 season when he averaged 20.1 ppg and was named to the 1998 NBA All-Star Team.
On August 7, 1999, Smith was traded to the Portland Trailblazers where he played for two seasons. From there, Smith went on to play for a number of other teams including San Antonio, where he won the 2003 NBA Championship, New Orleans, and Charlotte, ultimately returning to Miami where he retired after the 2004-05 season.
Since his retirement, Smith has stayed close to NBA action. In 2005-06 season, he began serving as a color-commentator for the Atlanta Hawks. He worked for the Hawks for three seasons before joining NBA TV in 2008. He lives in Atlanta with Millie. The couple has two sons, Brayden and Davis.

EX-NBA STAR STEVE SMITH IN KENYA

On Saturday, the finals for the Sprite Slam Basketball tournament will be graced by ex NBA star Steven Smith to identify young talent.
Steven will jet into the country on Thursday, September 23, afternoon in preparation for the finals at the Railway Club.
He will conduct training sessions together with Kenyan National Basketball Association in which he will identify the best 3 to fly to the USA and attend the NBA boot camp.



Steven, born March 31, 1969, in Highland Park, MI, attended Pershing High School. He went to college at Michigan State University where he was a star point guard.
Smith was selected fifth overall by the Miami Heat in the 1991 NBA Draft. His rookie season, Smith averaged 12.0 ppg and earned a spot on the 1992 NBA All-Rookie First Team.
He played in Miami for three seasons before he was traded to the Atlanta Hawks just as the 1994-95 season was getting underway. Smith played for the Hawks for five seasons, including the 1997-98 season when he averaged 20.1 ppg and was named to the 1998 NBA All-Star Team.
On August 7, 1999, Smith was traded to the Portland Trailblazers where he played for two seasons. From there, Smith went on to play for a number of other teams including San Antonio, where he won the 2003 NBA Championship, New Orleans, and Charlotte, ultimately returning to Miami where he retired after the 2004-05 season.
Since his retirement, Smith has stayed close to NBA action. In 2005-06 season, he began serving as a color-commentator for the Atlanta Hawks. He worked for the Hawks for three seasons before joining NBA TV in 2008. He lives in Atlanta with Millie. The couple has two sons, Brayden and Davis.

ERIC WAINAINA FEATURING BAABA MAAL LIVE AT THE DOME!

A live concert by Africa’s finest is scheduled on September 28 at the Sarakasi Dome and will feature Eric Wainaina and Senegalese star Baaba Maal.
Eric’s love for music started at a young age. Whilst growing up, he was influenced musically by international artists such as Papa Wemba, Youssou N’Dour, Lokua Kanza and Paul Simon. His career was launched with his debut album, Sawa Sawa, in 2001. Eric first stepped into the world of music with Five Alive, an a cappella group. His music is a blend of Kenyan Benga rhythm and East African guitars, with some modern harmony. His notable releases include Kenya Only, a song that instantly made him Kenya’s favourite modern musician.
After the 1998 terrorist bombing in Nairobi where over 200 Kenyans lost their lives and the botched 2007 presidential elections, Kenya Only was adopted as the unofficial song of mourning, receiving extensive radio and TV airplay nation-wide.
Other releases are Nchi ya Kitu Kidogo, his 21- song musical theatre piece, Lwanda, Man of Stone, his album Twende Twende and the musical Mo Faya.
Baaba Maal is a uniquely talented singer from Senegal. Baaba comes from humble beginnings but he has learned and travelled and now speaks and sings of empowerment, enlightenment and peace. Baaba Maal was born in Podor, a town with a population of 6,000, on the banks of the river Senegal that separates the country of the same name from Mauritania. Baaba's family is Hal Pulaar, known in the English speaking world as Fulani. He is not from a Griot family (the hereditary caste of artists and communicators). His father worked in the fields but was also given the honour and responsibility of using songs to call the worshippers to the mosque. Baaba's mother was a musician who sang and wrote her own songs educating her son in the musical forms of the area and encouraging the young Baaba to value intelligent and thoughtful lyrics. He currently is in the international spotlight as one of the world's hottest performers; most of the audiences here will remember him during the 2008 Sawa Sawa Festival edition where he gave an enthralling performance at Arboretum.

ERIC WAINAINA FEATURING BAABA MAAL LIVE AT THE DOME!

A live concert by Africa’s finest is scheduled on September 28 at the Sarakasi Dome and will feature Eric Wainaina and Senegalese star Baaba Maal.
Eric’s love for music started at a young age. Whilst growing up, he was influenced musically by international artists such as Papa Wemba, Youssou N’Dour, Lokua Kanza and Paul Simon. His career was launched with his debut album, Sawa Sawa, in 2001. Eric first stepped into the world of music with Five Alive, an a cappella group. His music is a blend of Kenyan Benga rhythm and East African guitars, with some modern harmony. His notable releases include Kenya Only, a song that instantly made him Kenya’s favourite modern musician.
After the 1998 terrorist bombing in Nairobi where over 200 Kenyans lost their lives and the botched 2007 presidential elections, Kenya Only was adopted as the unofficial song of mourning, receiving extensive radio and TV airplay nation-wide.
Other releases are Nchi ya Kitu Kidogo, his 21- song musical theatre piece, Lwanda, Man of Stone, his album Twende Twende and the musical Mo Faya.
Baaba Maal is a uniquely talented singer from Senegal. Baaba comes from humble beginnings but he has learned and travelled and now speaks and sings of empowerment, enlightenment and peace. Baaba Maal was born in Podor, a town with a population of 6,000, on the banks of the river Senegal that separates the country of the same name from Mauritania. Baaba's family is Hal Pulaar, known in the English speaking world as Fulani. He is not from a Griot family (the hereditary caste of artists and communicators). His father worked in the fields but was also given the honour and responsibility of using songs to call the worshippers to the mosque. Baaba's mother was a musician who sang and wrote her own songs educating her son in the musical forms of the area and encouraging the young Baaba to value intelligent and thoughtful lyrics. He currently is in the international spotlight as one of the world's hottest performers; most of the audiences here will remember him during the 2008 Sawa Sawa Festival edition where he gave an enthralling performance at Arboretum.

FLORIDA 2000’S INAUGURAL MIC AWARDS

Kenya’s oldest entertainment spot, Florida Group, will be hosting their first ever Golden Mic Awards to award the stars that started and built their career at the club’s Jam Session.
The jam sessions are hosted at the Florida 2000 club every Sunday afternoon and has seen the careers most of the Kenyan artistes flourishing after creating a fan base there. It is the place where stars have been born, a place when Kenyan and East African celebrities have their roots like Redsan, Shanky Radics, Kleptomaniacs among others. Even contoversial Ugandan star Chameleone honed his skill at the club.
Michael Katana told Hot Secrets, “Today there are many forums to showcase talent but this was not the case in earlier times. Florida is the only place where talent could be seen and we are very happy that we took part.”
The award ceremony will take place at the club on October 2 and the theme is Where It All Began.

FLORIDA 2000’S INAUGURAL MIC AWARDS

Kenya’s oldest entertainment spot, Florida Group, will be hosting their first ever Golden Mic Awards to award the stars that started and built their career at the club’s Jam Session.
The jam sessions are hosted at the Florida 2000 club every Sunday afternoon and has seen the careers most of the Kenyan artistes flourishing after creating a fan base there. It is the place where stars have been born, a place when Kenyan and East African celebrities have their roots like Redsan, Shanky Radics, Kleptomaniacs among others. Even contoversial Ugandan star Chameleone honed his skill at the club.
Michael Katana told Hot Secrets, “Today there are many forums to showcase talent but this was not the case in earlier times. Florida is the only place where talent could be seen and we are very happy that we took part.”
The award ceremony will take place at the club on October 2 and the theme is Where It All Began.

SUPER MODEL TO VISIT KENYA FOR CHARITY

Now, this is seriously hush hush but the grapevine is abuzz with news that Supermodel Veronica Varekova will be visiting Kenya for charity in November 11.
The Czech-born beauty that is the face for leading watch brand, Hublot also lends her powers to the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF), as a goodwill ambassador.
The AWF ensures that conservation doesn't work at cross-purposes with struggling local populations; the organization takes pains to find alternative solutions to the human-wildlife conflict.
The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue cover model is supported by the AWF’s initiative dubbed Big Bang Out of Africa, where a percentage of the sales from Hublot, go to the Foundation, which over the last 50 years has been pursuing initiatives to protect Africa's communities, wildlife, endangered species and landscapes.

SUPER MODEL TO VISIT KENYA FOR CHARITY

Now, this is seriously hush hush but the grapevine is abuzz with news that Supermodel Veronica Varekova will be visiting Kenya for charity in November 11.
The Czech-born beauty that is the face for leading watch brand, Hublot also lends her powers to the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF), as a goodwill ambassador.
The AWF ensures that conservation doesn't work at cross-purposes with struggling local populations; the organization takes pains to find alternative solutions to the human-wildlife conflict.
The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue cover model is supported by the AWF’s initiative dubbed Big Bang Out of Africa, where a percentage of the sales from Hublot, go to the Foundation, which over the last 50 years has been pursuing initiatives to protect Africa's communities, wildlife, endangered species and landscapes.

INTERNATIONAL STARS TO GRACE LITERARY FEST

International stars will be jetting into Nairobi for Kenya’s premier literary event, Story Moja Hay Festival that brings together writers, storytellers, environmentalists, poets, business leaders and education professionals to share stories and ideas.

The festival will also be the culmination of a city-wide storytelling competition for young people (the Kwani Short Story Competition), the Story Moja Hay Poetry Competition, and a chance to engage with the Right to Read campaign to get a book in the hand of every Kenyan.

It will be held from October 1 to 3 at Railways Club, Nairobi. The festival will have over 60 events in 3 days of brilliance.

Festival participants in 2010 include: Denise Gordon – American Soul Musician, Michela Wrong (UK) - political writer and journalist, Jaffar Al Amin - son of Idi Amin, Petina Gappah (Zimbabwe) - lawyer, writer, Benjamin Zephaniah - UK poet, performer, activist, Andy Middleton (Climate change consultant), Tiffany Murray (Welsh author), Dr. Julie Grigg (Founder - Medics4timbuktu project), Lars Rambe (Sweden) – crime novelist and lawyer and Sandra A.Mushi – Tanzanian poet, writer and designer.

Others include filmmaker Tom Twyker (German) and co-founder of One Fine Day and NGO whose pilot project “Soul Boy“ (2010) premiered at Gothenburg International Film festival in January 2010.



Jane Bussmann - (UK)- born Comedy Writer for over fifty shows in Britain and America including South Park, the Emmy-winning Smack The Pony and The Fast Show. While Kenyan legendary literary and filmmaking personalities include Francis Imbuga, John Kiriamiti – reformed criminal, author Oyunga Pala, Sunny Bindra, Doreen Baingana, Ngwatilo Mawiyoo, Sitawa Namwalie, Lucy Simiyu is a professional counselling psychologist with skills in organizational development and leadership training. Ruth Gasson, Olouch Madiang – Kenyan Storyteller, actor, director, playwright, writer and poet, and many more.

INTERNATIONAL STARS TO GRACE LITERARY FEST

International stars will be jetting into Nairobi for Kenya’s premier literary event, Story Moja Hay Festival that brings together writers, storytellers, environmentalists, poets, business leaders and education professionals to share stories and ideas.

The festival will also be the culmination of a city-wide storytelling competition for young people (the Kwani Short Story Competition), the Story Moja Hay Poetry Competition, and a chance to engage with the Right to Read campaign to get a book in the hand of every Kenyan.

It will be held from October 1 to 3 at Railways Club, Nairobi. The festival will have over 60 events in 3 days of brilliance.

Festival participants in 2010 include: Denise Gordon – American Soul Musician, Michela Wrong (UK) - political writer and journalist, Jaffar Al Amin - son of Idi Amin, Petina Gappah (Zimbabwe) - lawyer, writer, Benjamin Zephaniah - UK poet, performer, activist, Andy Middleton (Climate change consultant), Tiffany Murray (Welsh author), Dr. Julie Grigg (Founder - Medics4timbuktu project), Lars Rambe (Sweden) – crime novelist and lawyer and Sandra A.Mushi – Tanzanian poet, writer and designer.

Others include filmmaker Tom Twyker (German) and co-founder of One Fine Day and NGO whose pilot project “Soul Boy“ (2010) premiered at Gothenburg International Film festival in January 2010.



Jane Bussmann - (UK)- born Comedy Writer for over fifty shows in Britain and America including South Park, the Emmy-winning Smack The Pony and The Fast Show. While Kenyan legendary literary and filmmaking personalities include Francis Imbuga, John Kiriamiti – reformed criminal, author Oyunga Pala, Sunny Bindra, Doreen Baingana, Ngwatilo Mawiyoo, Sitawa Namwalie, Lucy Simiyu is a professional counselling psychologist with skills in organizational development and leadership training. Ruth Gasson, Olouch Madiang – Kenyan Storyteller, actor, director, playwright, writer and poet, and many more.

POET SITAWA’S FIGHT FOR THE GIRL CHILD

Poet and spoken word queen Sitawa Wafula is campaigning to change the prevalent one-off-philanthropy where well-wishers donate essentials once and that is it. Sitawa is working with a group of NGos’ who have come together to build a sanitary pads bank where school going teenage girls can get sanitary pads all year round.
“We have a database of deserving girls from various rural districts and our main aim is to ensure they do not drop out of school because of the embarrassment they may undergo during their periods if they don’t use the right sanitary protection,” she told Hot Secrets from her station at the Mall Westlands where she has set up camp on Monday.
“Do you know that in some rural communities the girls are told to go dig holes and sit there till their menstrual period is over? Some use old clothes blankets and mattresses and even drop out of school after they stain their clothes and their classmates laugh at them,” She explained, “It is for this reason we are asking well wishers to donate just 200 bob to ship in a care packet that contains ten packets of pads and four panties.”
Sitawa is also a BasicNeeds UK part Ambassadors for mental health.

POET SITAWA’S FIGHT FOR THE GIRL CHILD

Poet and spoken word queen Sitawa Wafula is campaigning to change the prevalent one-off-philanthropy where well-wishers donate essentials once and that is it. Sitawa is working with a group of NGos’ who have come together to build a sanitary pads bank where school going teenage girls can get sanitary pads all year round.
“We have a database of deserving girls from various rural districts and our main aim is to ensure they do not drop out of school because of the embarrassment they may undergo during their periods if they don’t use the right sanitary protection,” she told Hot Secrets from her station at the Mall Westlands where she has set up camp on Monday.
“Do you know that in some rural communities the girls are told to go dig holes and sit there till their menstrual period is over? Some use old clothes blankets and mattresses and even drop out of school after they stain their clothes and their classmates laugh at them,” She explained, “It is for this reason we are asking well wishers to donate just 200 bob to ship in a care packet that contains ten packets of pads and four panties.”
Sitawa is also a BasicNeeds UK part Ambassadors for mental health.

SOWETO STRING QUARTET READY FOR WEEKEND SHOWS

The two headliners for the Safaricom Classical Fusion series of events are already in the country for the shows.
Kenyan Born Rhoda Ondeng and South African Soweto String Quartet were present at a press briefing on Monday afternoon.



“It’s a pleasure to be here for the first time, though we have made a stop over four to six times at the airport on our way to countries and we would ask when we will ever actually leave the airport for a visit to Kenya,” SSQ’s Sandile Khemese said.



The quartet also includes siblings Reuben Khemese, Thami Khemese and Makhosini Mnguni.
Safaricom’s CEO Michael Joseph too was surprised that SSQ agreed to come for the classical fusion, “”I thought it was impossible,” he said directing it to the organisers of the function “They don’t have time to come to Kenya.”
But lauded the effort of the company in developing the Classical music fan base and in the process giving back to the community.

SOWETO STRING QUARTET READY FOR WEEKEND SHOWS

The two headliners for the Safaricom Classical Fusion series of events are already in the country for the shows.
Kenyan Born Rhoda Ondeng and South African Soweto String Quartet were present at a press briefing on Monday afternoon.



“It’s a pleasure to be here for the first time, though we have made a stop over four to six times at the airport on our way to countries and we would ask when we will ever actually leave the airport for a visit to Kenya,” SSQ’s Sandile Khemese said.



The quartet also includes siblings Reuben Khemese, Thami Khemese and Makhosini Mnguni.
Safaricom’s CEO Michael Joseph too was surprised that SSQ agreed to come for the classical fusion, “”I thought it was impossible,” he said directing it to the organisers of the function “They don’t have time to come to Kenya.”
But lauded the effort of the company in developing the Classical music fan base and in the process giving back to the community.

SOUNDAFRICA SIGNS DISTRIBUTION DEAL WITH US SOUL STAR

American soul singer and vocalist, Denise Gordon, who is set to headline this year’s Storymoja Hay Festival, signed a distribution deal with Kenya's premier music distributor - Sound Africa.
David Makali the CEO of the distribution company told Hot Secrets, “It was done last year for her first album Wangu We and we staged a concert for her with Kidum as well.”
Denise will perform at the launch dinner for the literary festival called Dine with Stars on September 30 at the Carnivore.
She is famed for her hit, We Need the Children, which received an Honorary Mention in the 2003 John Lennon and 2005 Great American Songwriting Contests.
She has collaborated with Kenya’s keyboard guru Aaron Rimbui in a joint dubbed My Ideal Man, a delightful, spoken word piece painted by the piano of the Kenyan musician. The album also features singles like Suddenly Sudan, which was written during her days in Darfur in support of those, affected by the war. The rap in the beginning is a former Sudanese child soldier named Lam, who is speaking in his native tongue of Nuer.
The heavy drums added by Executive Producer R Kay, represents the burden of war along with the chants of Kenyan singer Hellen Mtawali who make listeners feel the tears and suffering of the situation. Denise is delighted that this song has been selected to feature on the compilation Rwanda for Darfur.
She has performed before in Nairobi at the July 4 Blankets and Wine monthly music festival.

SOUNDAFRICA SIGNS DISTRIBUTION DEAL WITH US SOUL STAR

American soul singer and vocalist, Denise Gordon, who is set to headline this year’s Storymoja Hay Festival, signed a distribution deal with Kenya's premier music distributor - Sound Africa.
David Makali the CEO of the distribution company told Hot Secrets, “It was done last year for her first album Wangu We and we staged a concert for her with Kidum as well.”
Denise will perform at the launch dinner for the literary festival called Dine with Stars on September 30 at the Carnivore.
She is famed for her hit, We Need the Children, which received an Honorary Mention in the 2003 John Lennon and 2005 Great American Songwriting Contests.
She has collaborated with Kenya’s keyboard guru Aaron Rimbui in a joint dubbed My Ideal Man, a delightful, spoken word piece painted by the piano of the Kenyan musician. The album also features singles like Suddenly Sudan, which was written during her days in Darfur in support of those, affected by the war. The rap in the beginning is a former Sudanese child soldier named Lam, who is speaking in his native tongue of Nuer.
The heavy drums added by Executive Producer R Kay, represents the burden of war along with the chants of Kenyan singer Hellen Mtawali who make listeners feel the tears and suffering of the situation. Denise is delighted that this song has been selected to feature on the compilation Rwanda for Darfur.
She has performed before in Nairobi at the July 4 Blankets and Wine monthly music festival.

WHY HANNIGHTON IS PERSONA NON GRATA IN BIGGIE”S BARN

Big Brother All Stars is a reality television programme that is designed to contain 14 housemates in a house for 91 days under certain rules and regulations. In an incident late on Tuesday night (14 September) there was a breach of the Big Brother rules and M-Net and series producer Endemol have had to evaluate and consider the sanctions to be imposed for the breach of these rules.
In order to assist in providing these sanctions, M-Net and Endemol called in a psychologist to assess the situation and the individuals involved, to ensure fairness and that the best interests of the housemates were taken into consideration. The psychologist advised that an assessment of the housemates was required and a series of interviews was conducted in order to determine their mental and emotional state before Big Brother made public his decision on this matter.



Further to this intervention, M-Net and Endemol have decided on the following course of action: Hannington Kuteesa will be evicted for contravening the Big Brother rules in relation to violence and Lerato Sengadi will remain in the house but will also be sanctioned. Hannington will be offered support and treatment on exiting the house. The details of this treatment will be revealed once Hannington has completed the process and we ask for his privacy to be respected in this matter.



Big Brother also wishes to note that this was an incident that could have been avoided, through discussion and a mature approach to conflict. For this reason Big Brother deems it necessary to continue the anger management and conflict resolution process that has begun in the house to ensure that all housemates understand their roles in creating conflict and in contributing to explosive situations.

WHY HANNIGHTON IS PERSONA NON GRATA IN BIGGIE”S BARN

Big Brother All Stars is a reality television programme that is designed to contain 14 housemates in a house for 91 days under certain rules and regulations. In an incident late on Tuesday night (14 September) there was a breach of the Big Brother rules and M-Net and series producer Endemol have had to evaluate and consider the sanctions to be imposed for the breach of these rules.
In order to assist in providing these sanctions, M-Net and Endemol called in a psychologist to assess the situation and the individuals involved, to ensure fairness and that the best interests of the housemates were taken into consideration. The psychologist advised that an assessment of the housemates was required and a series of interviews was conducted in order to determine their mental and emotional state before Big Brother made public his decision on this matter.



Further to this intervention, M-Net and Endemol have decided on the following course of action: Hannington Kuteesa will be evicted for contravening the Big Brother rules in relation to violence and Lerato Sengadi will remain in the house but will also be sanctioned. Hannington will be offered support and treatment on exiting the house. The details of this treatment will be revealed once Hannington has completed the process and we ask for his privacy to be respected in this matter.



Big Brother also wishes to note that this was an incident that could have been avoided, through discussion and a mature approach to conflict. For this reason Big Brother deems it necessary to continue the anger management and conflict resolution process that has begun in the house to ensure that all housemates understand their roles in creating conflict and in contributing to explosive situations.

ENTERTAINMENT GALORE AT CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE

There will be fun and entertainment galore at this year’s AccessKenya Africa Concours d’Elegance scheduled for Sunday September 26.
The Sarakasi dancers are among the renowned artists who will perform at the Nairobi Racecourse which is the place to be for the classiest motoring and social event in the Kenya Motor Sport calendar.
Sarakasi has built a solid platform for developing East Africa's natural theatrical talents into a world-class school for the performing arts. From its base at Sarakasi Dome in Nairobi, the trust runs daily training programs for over 50 dancers, covering a range of disciplines that include traditional dance, cabaret, salsa, hip hop, street dance and other contemporary dance forms.
Gates open for the Concours from 9.00 a.m. for a festival of classic and vintage car and motorcycle judging, displays of almost all the new cars, pick-ups, SUVs and 4 x 4s in Kenya and a host of added attractions. These include the free Minute Maid Children’s Centre, live bands, fly pasts and a parachute drop.
Deacons will be rewarding elegantly clothed spectators. The colours of the day will be yellow and blue and the best dressed woman and man stand a chance to win vouchers valued at 20,000 shillings each. The most outstanding couple will receive a voucher of Ksh40,000 provided by Deacons.
This year’s vehicle beauty contest will be a landmark event celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Alfa Romeo Owners Club and the centenary of Alfa, a legendary Italian car manufacturer.
The day will end with a parade of all the Concours cars and motorcycles and a highly entertaining Grand Finale with the Sarakasi dancers, a star entertainer and a fashion show by Deacons.

ENTERTAINMENT GALORE AT CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE

There will be fun and entertainment galore at this year’s AccessKenya Africa Concours d’Elegance scheduled for Sunday September 26.
The Sarakasi dancers are among the renowned artists who will perform at the Nairobi Racecourse which is the place to be for the classiest motoring and social event in the Kenya Motor Sport calendar.
Sarakasi has built a solid platform for developing East Africa's natural theatrical talents into a world-class school for the performing arts. From its base at Sarakasi Dome in Nairobi, the trust runs daily training programs for over 50 dancers, covering a range of disciplines that include traditional dance, cabaret, salsa, hip hop, street dance and other contemporary dance forms.
Gates open for the Concours from 9.00 a.m. for a festival of classic and vintage car and motorcycle judging, displays of almost all the new cars, pick-ups, SUVs and 4 x 4s in Kenya and a host of added attractions. These include the free Minute Maid Children’s Centre, live bands, fly pasts and a parachute drop.
Deacons will be rewarding elegantly clothed spectators. The colours of the day will be yellow and blue and the best dressed woman and man stand a chance to win vouchers valued at 20,000 shillings each. The most outstanding couple will receive a voucher of Ksh40,000 provided by Deacons.
This year’s vehicle beauty contest will be a landmark event celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Alfa Romeo Owners Club and the centenary of Alfa, a legendary Italian car manufacturer.
The day will end with a parade of all the Concours cars and motorcycles and a highly entertaining Grand Finale with the Sarakasi dancers, a star entertainer and a fashion show by Deacons.

BAABA MAAL CONFIRMED FOR BBC SHOW IN NAIROBI

Senegalese singer Baaba Maal will be in Nairobi for an exclusive recording and live performance for the BBC-World Service Trust on September 28.
Maal will also be in conversation with the BBC's Tom Japanni on the power of media and communication in development in Africa. The function shall be hosted at the Louis Leakey Auditorium from 7:30pm – 9:30pm.
According to the invitation cards sent, the star believes, “In Africa, the first step in combating poverty is to provide information. The ability to make the most basic – and the most profound – decisions about one’s life and future is the bedrock for development in the 21st century.”
This is a follow up after missing out on the help launch the findings of Africa Talks Climate to which he is the official ambassador, held at the same venue in March this year.

BAABA MAAL CONFIRMED FOR BBC SHOW IN NAIROBI

Senegalese singer Baaba Maal will be in Nairobi for an exclusive recording and live performance for the BBC-World Service Trust on September 28.
Maal will also be in conversation with the BBC's Tom Japanni on the power of media and communication in development in Africa. The function shall be hosted at the Louis Leakey Auditorium from 7:30pm – 9:30pm.
According to the invitation cards sent, the star believes, “In Africa, the first step in combating poverty is to provide information. The ability to make the most basic – and the most profound – decisions about one’s life and future is the bedrock for development in the 21st century.”
This is a follow up after missing out on the help launch the findings of Africa Talks Climate to which he is the official ambassador, held at the same venue in March this year.