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THIS WEEK IN HISTORY!

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Time travel feels like an ancient tradition rooted in old mythologies, old as gods and dragons. It isn’t. It is the ability to go back in time and feel history, see it, and revel in it. Dare I even say, you can almost taste it. So, this week, we look at the key moments that shaped the nation and changed the course of our country’s history. This is a week in history.

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On January 15, 2019, an attack occurred at the Dusit D2 Complex in Westlands, Chiromo, resulting in the loss of 22 civilian lives. Five armed terrorists gained entry to the premises and carried out activities that added another tragic event to Kenya’s history of terror attacks. However, the Kenya Defense Forces and the National Police Service were well-prepared to handle such situations, having gained experience from previous incidents like the Westgate Attack in 2013 and the Garissa University Attack in 2015. They swiftly responded, working together to rescue hostages, eliminate all five militants, and finally bring an end to the siege by the following day, January 16, at 10:00 am.

On January 17, 2008, Koffi Annan, the former UN Secretary-General, arrived in Kenya to mediate the conflict that had arisen between former President Kibaki and former Prime Minister Odinga, as well as their respective supporters. The December 2007 elections had been marred by allegations of electoral manipulation, leading to disputes over the victory of Mr. Kibaki. Following Mr. Kibaki’s inauguration on December 30th, Mr. Odinga called for mass protests across the country, which ultimately sparked widespread violence and crimes committed by Kenyans against each other. Today, we solemnly remember all those who tragically lost their lives and extend our heartfelt prayers to those who suffered losses in terms of loved ones and property.

Courtesy of the Washington Post.

On January 18, 1967, the Kenya African National Union was announced by Former President Jomo Kenyatta. This announcement held significant importance as the country was in its early stages and required a symbol of unity. It called for leaders from diverse backgrounds and ethnicities to come together and advocate for the Kenyan flag. The original members, including Jomo Kenyatta, Tom Mboya, Daniel Moi, Jaramogi Oginga, and others, aimed to unify the nation and prevent tribalism. However, they were idealists Je wangekuwa mambo yangekuwa sawa?.

After the passing of Mzee Kenyatta, Moi took the oath of office as Kenya’s second president on January 20th, 1978. This was a significant moment as it facilitated a peaceful and lawful transfer of power from one administration to another. It also marked the transition from Kikuyu-dominated ethnic politics to Kalenjin-led ethnic politics, potentially indicating a shift in the allocation of government and natural resources. In a time of mourning and uncertainty for the Kenyan people, Moi pledged to combat tribalism and corruption and to carry on in the footsteps of Mzee Kenyatta hence, the ‘tufuate nyayo’slogan. Wewe unajua kama alitimiza. Mine is to facilitate the time travel. What you do with it, is up to you.

On January 21, 1969, Thomas Mboya, a well-known politician and the Minister of Economic Planning and Development at the time, was murdered by Nahashon Isaac Njenga Njoroge, who was a trade unionist. This event led to widespread demonstrations and unrest, fueling ethnic divisions between the Kikuyu and Luo communities in the country.

With that, the journey of looking back in time comes to an end. Join me next week. Same place, same time. Until then, Auf Wiedersehen.

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Sauti Sol Gears Up For Sol Fest 2024 In December

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Sauti Sol has officially announced the return of Sol Fest, scheduled for December 2024, with two shows: the VIP experience on December 19 and the Fan Show on December 21.

The festival, which celebrates the band’s music and legacy, will see all four members—Bien, Polycarp, Savara, and Chimano—reunite on stage despite their current solo ventures.

Joining them will be longtime collaborators Nyashinski, Khaligraph Jones, comedian Crazy Kennar, and several unnamed female artists.

Last year’s Sol Fest 2023, dubbed “The Last Dance,” drew over 15,000 attendees to Uhuru Gardens, celebrating the band’s 17-year journey. The 2024 edition is set to continue the tradition with a VIP show at a luxury venue and an affordable, open-air fan event.

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Walker Town Presents A Star-Studded Lineup Featuring Lauryn Hill, Nyashinski And Rema

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Nairobi is gearing up for an epic music event as Walker Town returns on September 28th at Laureate Gardens.

Presented by Johnnie Walker, this year’s concert promises a star-studded lineup, featuring a mix of international and local talent that will light up the city.

Day 1 of the event will see performances from Nigerian Afrobeat sensation Rema, Kenya’s Bien (of Sauti Sol), and British rapper Arrdee. Rema, known for his chart-topping hits like “Calm Down,” will bring his infectious Afrobeat energy to the stage. Bien, a celebrated Kenyan vocalist, will thrill fans with his soulful sounds and captivating stage presence. Arrdee, the rising British rapper behind hits like “Oliver Twist,” will add his unique flair, making Day 1 a mix of Afrobeat, soulful ballads, and dynamic rap.

Day 2 will be headlined by the legendary Lauryn Hill, whose groundbreaking music has influenced generations, and Kenya’s own Nyashinski, who will close out the event with his signature blend of rap, Afrobeat, and soul.

With performances across both days, Walker Town Nairobi will offer fans an unforgettable experience of world-class entertainment, backed by the iconic Johnnie Walker brand.

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Yemi Alade Named As The Spotify Equal Artist For September 2024

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Spotify has named Afropop star Yemi Alade as the EQUAL Artist for September 2024.

Often called “Mama Africa” by her fans, Yemi Alade has earned widespread acclaim for her dedication to promoting African heritage through her vibrant sound and magnetic performances.

Over the years, Yemi Alade’s powerful voice and captivating stage presence have propelled her to global recognition. Her talent has led to high-profile collaborations with internationally renowned artists like Beyoncé, Angélique Kidjo, and Awilo Longomba, further solidifying her status as an ambassador of African music. Through extensive world tours, she has consistently showcased the richness of African rhythms, connecting with diverse audiences around the globe.

Speaking on the EQUAL Africa initiative, Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighted the platform’s commitment to promoting female artists across the continent. “Yemi Alade embodies the extraordinary talent that EQUAL Africa seeks to uplift. We’re honored to support her and other women in music, providing a platform for their voices to be heard and their stories to reach a global audience,” she said.

With a career spanning more than ten years, Yemi Alade has become a force to be reckoned with, not only in Nigeria but internationally as well.

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