Ommy Dallah
Coca Cola Share A Coke' Campaign Welcomes Madaraka In Style
As Kenyans prepare to mark the historical Madaraka day celebration, coca-cola company's 'Share a Coke'Campaign is spark joy and memorable experiences to travellers heading to different parts of the country and in Uganda.
In the activations,over 1000 passengers boarding Easy Coach buses to western Kenya and Kampala will receive two personalized coke cans-one for themselves and one to share with family.
he company Senior Manager, Communications Coca-Cola East and Central Africa Franchise Paul Oloo says the Compaign is a way to turn ordinary trips to memorable journeys filles with smiles, stories and shared experiences.
At Jambo jet check in counters ,the company is also surprising passengers flying to Mombasa,Ukunda,Malindi and Kisumu with personalized cans of Coke sparking joy from take off to touch down.
"This Madaraka day,Coca-cola is taking the experience even further bringing joy directly to travellers on the move,"reads a statement shared with our news desk on Friday.
The surprise gesture is expected to bring a memorable excitement and cheer to the bus and airport terminals, turning ordinary journeys into memorable experiences
Coca-Cola Kenya continues to bring its 'Share a Coke' campaign to different parts of the coast region reminding Kenyans that sometimes, a simple bottle of soda with a familiar name is all it takes to make someone’s day.
Coca-Cola relaunched its global “Share a Coke” campaign in Kenya in April this year, bringing back personalized Coke bottles and cans featuring individual names.
The campaign, first introduced in 2011, replaces the brand’s logo with popular first names and encourages consumers to connect through shared experiences.
The initiative targets a new generation of consumers, particularly Gen Z, who are increasingly drawn to authentic, personalized experiences both online and offline.
Countrwide activations are also planned at malls, colleges, eateries, and other public spaces, where consumers can find personalized bottles and take part in various campaign activities.
In addition to in-person events, the campaign has also entered in digital presence on TikTok, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter), with users encouraged to share their experiences using the hashtag #ShareaCoke.
The company says the campaign aims to highlight real-life social interactions at a time when traditional communal spaces are becoming less common.
Personalized Coke bottles and cans are now available in stores, supermarkets, and entertainment venues countrywide.
The “Share a Coke” campaign will run in all parts of the country as Kenya celebrated the Madaraka day celebration.
Mombasa Activists Call For Extension Of Planned Meter Gauge Railway Station
A section of activists in Mombasa have besieged private investors who’s leases on Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) lands have expired to vacate the said lands to pave way for the extension of the Meter gauge railway.
The activists claim influential business tycoons have overstayed their durations on lands which some apparently are public utilities hence curtailing development projects, the most significant yet being the soon to be commissioned meter gauge railway.
Human rights activist Evans Momanyi said the meter gauge railway is a critical piece of infrastructure that will ease the movement of people within the CBD to the SGR Station in Miritini but risks losing its efficiency and usefulness if private developers do not move from KRC lands.
Momanyi added that action against the lease defaulters should be prompt to allow KRC to prioritize the extension of the railway to the Likoni crossing channel.
Port user Micheal Nato echoed Momanyi’s sentiments saying that public land in the hands of private individuals should be reverted.
Nato called on the relevant authorities to action the eviction of any private entity operating on public lands unlawfully.
He noted that it was a trend that had plagued the National government , and it was timely for amends to give the public the much-needed development in the Country.
Connected Africa Summit 2025 Opens in Diani
The Connected Africa Summit 2025 officially opened on Monday in Diani, bringing together over 1200 delegates from 24 countries in a powerful show of global commitment to advancing Africa’s digital transformation. The four-day summit, running until Thursday, has drawn top government officials, private sector leaders, innovators, and policymakers to explore the next frontier of the continent’s digital future.
The high-level gathering began with a strong emphasis on follow-through and implementation, particularly of the Nairobi Declaration, which emerged from last year’s summit. In his opening remarks, Stanley Kamanguya, CEO, ICT Authority of Kenya, underscored the significance of the summit’s return and the weight of the conversations ahead.
“This is the second time we are converging at a continental level. The Connected Africa Summit has kicked off in a big way,” said Kamanguya. “When you look at the attendance, it tells you that we are attracting a lot of attention from around the world. This year, we are following up on the Nairobi Declaration to assess progress, challenges, and opportunities for implementation.”
Key areas of focus during the summit include youth empowerment, given that 70 per cent of Africa’s population is under 30 years old, scaling local innovations, harmonizing ICT policies across African nations, and promoting digital inclusivity by addressing the internet access gap. Kamanguya highlighted that the summit is not only expected to produce actionable policy recommendations but also explore alternative financing strategies to drive digital infrastructure development across the continent.
On her part, Cynthia Kropac - Safaricom’s Chief Enterprise Business Officer, reiterated the company’s focus on delivering seamless, intelligent, and inclusive digital experiences for people across Africa,
“At Safaricom Business, we remain firmly committed to driving Africa’s digital future—through bold investments in connectivity, strategic partnerships, and the transformative power of artificial intelligence. By fostering innovation and enabling access to digital solutions, the Business continues to play a central role in unlocking socio-economic growth and empowering communities across the continent.”
Another key highlight of the opening day was a keynote presentation by Eng. John Tanui, CBS Principal Secretary, State Department for ICT and Digital Economy. His address, themed “Positioning Kenya as Africa’s Next Hub for Outsourcing IT-Enabled Services (ITES),” explored Kenya’s ambition to become a regional leader in digital services.
The first day also featured robust discussions on the future of work, artificial intelligence, the gig economy, 5G and connectivity, climate tech solutions, and the critical need for digital public infrastructure. These conversations are laying the groundwork for cross-sector collaborations that could redefine Africa’s digital agenda.
Beyond the plenary sessions, the summit is showcasing African innovation through an Innovation Village, where local startups and developers are displaying tech-driven solutions for real-world challenges. A Smart Government Zone is also featured, highlighting digital transformation projects from public sector institutions across Africa.
The summit is further amplifying inclusion efforts through a special Women in Tech session, aimed at empowering African women to actively participate and lead in the digital economy.
With more than 2,000 participants expected by the end of the week, the Connected Africa Summit 2025 is positioned to be a milestone event in the continent’s pursuit of a digitally inclusive, innovative, and interconnected future.
Jay’s Pyrotechnics To Stage Kenya’s First Drone Light Show
Nairobi is on Wednesday set to witness the first ever public drone light show powered by Jay Pyrotechnics.
The dazzling drone shows to light up Nairobi night sky will, according to organizers,bring residents and visitors a new experience, a combination of modernity, realistic art show and light show with laser mapping technology.
The first drone light show in the capital city will be a high impact artistic infusion of innovation and tradition in a digital age.
The groundbreaking event will be spearheaded by Jay Pyrotechnics, a leading brand in fireworks and visual experiences across the African continent.
A drone light show involves multiple aerial vehicles equipped with LED lights flying in synchronized formations to create patterns and images in the sky.
The company, a leader in drone light shows in the country, is working overdrive to deliver the first ever drone show in Kenya that will not only be visually satisfying but environmentally friendly.
Industry stakeholders contend that drone lights are the perfect substitutes for fireworks display as they are noiseless and less pollutant.
They are a more friendly and more interactive display without pollution with Jay Pyrotechnics promising a spectacle that will ‘illuminate the skyline and the hearts of the people’.
Jay Pyrotechnics Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jayshree Suchak says Nairobi will be set blaze with light music and wonder and expressed optimism that city dwellers will embrace the show wholeheartedly.
The CEO says the nighttime display will take place during the inauguration of a newly completed green-certified tower along Mombasa Road where hundreds of drones fitted with lights will create moving formations in the sky.
The Purple Tower, a 14-storey building located along Mombasa Road will be unveiled on Wednesday with rare spectacle.
"We are set to execute a groundbreaking 300 drone light show for the official launch of Purple Dot Tower in Nairobi,” she said.
She added that it will be Nairobi’s first ever drone show of its kind marking a significant milestone in the city’s entertainment and even production landscape.
Jay Pyrotechnics, formed in 1993 is a globally-renowned creative events company in the field of fireworks, special effects and visual experience and has presence in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Mauritius, Seychelles, Nigeria, Ghana and Egypt.
Suchak says drone light shows and aerial performances are redefining the future of entertainment on a large scale in Kenya and across Africa.
She says Nairobi’s inaugural 300-drone display promises to be a night of enchantment and splendor as her company showcases Kenya’s growing drone industry.
“We will illuminate Nairobi’s skyline with its first ever drone light show and it would be a memorable and experiential occasion,” said Suchak in an interview.
She went further ‘Kenyans will witness an unprecedented aerial spectacle as drones take to the sky’s’.
Suchak says the record setting show represents the future of live entertainment that combines technology, artistry and innovation in a way that has never been seen before in Kenya.
She said the company is leaving ‘no stone unturned’ to ensure an unforgettable experience and grand celebration with the main feature being a laser show and multimedia projections.
Suchak says drone light shows are becoming increasingly popular for events, festivals and celebrations.
She says the highlight will be a light show as 300 hundred drones take off in the night sky that promises a spectacle of dancing lights in the night sky, synchronized to music, leaving people in awe and wonder.
Drone light shows are a combination of drones programmed to fly in 3D space to make identifiable visual forms and create a stunning visual spectacle for events.
Suchak says the innovative aerial performance with the combination of movement and colour will redefine celebrations on the local scene seemingly blending artistry and cutting-edge technologies.
"We look forward to creating more awe-inspiring experiences in the near future, a paradigm shift in celebrations, as drone shows visually appeal to diverse audiences,” she said.
Kenya's Top MMA Fighters Set For Historic Bout
Two of Kenya’s top mixed martial arts (MMA) athletes, Ouhsummer Ali Abad, known as “Ninja Turtle” and George “The Maverick” Itumo — have officially signed with AFRICAN KNOCKOUT (AKO).
The duo will make their highly anticipated debut on June 13, 2025, at 6 PM at the Pistis Conference Center in Lagos, Nigeria.
AKO, Africa’s leading mixed martial arts promotion co-owned by Nigerian UFC legend Kamaru Usman, stands as the continent’s premier MMA platform, captivating audiences across Africa and beyond.
The upcoming debut of Ouhsummer Ali Abad and George Itumo marks a major milestone for Kenyan and East African combat sports.
With all formalities now complete, both fighters are currently in intensive training camp in Nairobi, preparing for their highly anticipated AKO debut.
Ouhsummer Ali Abad says, “Signing with AKO is a great opportunity to show Africa and the world the level east african MMA reached in the past few years.”
George Itumo adds on their aspiration, “The plan is to dominate the African MMA scene before moving into the biggest world leagues like PFL and UFC.”
This highly anticipated event will showcase 18 fighters from across Africa, also representing countries such as Nigeria, Angola, Benin, Cameroon, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Togo and Egypt — all eager to assert their dominance in the competitive AKO arena.
"AKO9 is more than just an event; it's a bold declaration of the future of African MMA. With unparalleled energy, elite athletes, and top-tier production, we’re not merely putting on a show — we’re igniting a movement,” stated Rayan Fayad, COO of AKO.
Historically, no East African fighter has claimed victory inside the AKO cage — that narrative is about to change. George and Ouhsummer are not just entering the arena to compete; they are poised to make history, representing Kenya and East Africa with pride and aiming to dominate on one of the most prestigious platforms in African MMA.
Kenya’s martial arts scene has seen a remarkable rise in 2025, driven by a dedicated team of fighters from Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy and One Tribe BJJ.
The team has delivered standout performances across Uganda, Egypt, and Qatar. At the AJP Tour Africa Continental Jiu-Jitsu Championship held in Cairo in February, Team Kenya emerged as the top-ranked African team, securing an impressive 13 medals — including six golds.
Leading the charge was Ouhsummer Ali Abad, who delivered a dominant performance with double gold.
He continued his winning streak at the AJP World Tour in Qatar in April, clinching back-to-back double victories.
These achievements have propelled him to #7 in the AJP global professional rankings — the highest ever for a Kenyan athlete in the sport.
Blankets & Wine Unveils Artist Line Up
Blankets & Wine, a production of GoodTimes Africa, has announced a spectacular artist lineup for their first edition of 2025, set to take place June 29th at Laureate Gardens, Moi International Sports Center.
The upcoming event, touted to be an unforgettable experience, will also be a celebration of the festival’s 16th anniversary of showcasing emerging and established artists from Kenya, across the continent and beyond.
Blankets & Wine June edition will feature two stages that will present a diverse lineup of artists and African sounds. Get your tickets to B&W June Edition via Mookh
Performers on the live main stage will include world acclaimed South African soulful house music icons Mi Casa best known for hit songs including “Jica” and “Tulale Fofofo” with Sauti Sol.
A Kenyan cocktail of stars will include Matata and Ssaru, who will deliver an infectious blend of Gengetone, Afrobeats and captivating choreography, Serro – the power vocalist who gives a contemporary twist of Kenyan Folk music, alongside rising stars: Shad Mziki who will deliver a soulful pop experience and We are Nubia, afropop R&B sweethearts.
Tanzanian living legend Saida Karoli will present a mix of Taarab and Bongo Flava rhythms infused with captivating traditional Tanzanian sounds while Uganda's coolest kid, Joshua Baraka, is expected to bring the show down with his beloved dancehall basement party.
On the Onja Onja Stage, fans should expect a captivating day into night of edgy, electronic African music including live performances by Akoth Jumadi & Mr Lu delivering a soulful blend of Afro-fusion and contemporary folk, a seamless blend of hip-hop, electronic, and Afro influences from Coco Kahi, infectious amapiano and afro house beats from DJ IV and Bune, an electrifying b3b set from Ghedi x Hiribae x Paps and a journey to alternative afro house music scene with DJ Ite.
Ahead of the anticipated event, Founder of Blankets & Wine, Muthoni Drummer Queen says, " Our focus is to curate an experience that truly delivers exceptional value for money with two stages presenting thrilling performances from 17 top notch African artists."
“This year, we are focusing on bringing Africa to Kenya. And taking Kenya to the world.”
Blankets and Wine curates a holistic festival experience that caters to every attendee, regardless of age.
The Family Zone at the festival offers a safe and engaging space for children with activities and minders, allowing parents to enjoy the event.
The renowned Onja Onja Market elevates the festival's cultural immersion, transforming it into a bustling marketplace where local artisans, vendors and culinary talents converge.
The market is a foodie paradise with tons of different eats and cool, handmade Kenyan goods and crafts.
Blankets & Wine will this year also be hosting its first-ever show in Bradford City, UK, on September 6th 2025 at Lister Park, marking a significant milestone in its 16-year journey in partnership with the British Council for the UK/Kenya Season 2025.
Car & General, Vihiga Boda SACCO launch Digital Platform
The Vihiga County Boda Boda SACCO (Vicbosa) has launched its digital platform that will streamline financial processes, improve service delivery and empower members through technology.
Developed by Car & General, it includes digital banking features, automated savings, loan management and real-time payment tracking.
The launch event took place on Saturday, May 24 with the Hon Wyycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya, the Cabinet Secretary for Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Development as guest of honour.
Vicbosa SACCO represents motorcycle taxi operators in Vihiga County, Western Kenya region. It organizes riders through skill training and upgrading which enhances safety and professionalism in the boda boda sector as well as promoting financial inclusion.
Speaking during the launch at the SACCO offices, Manyatta/Chango in Vihiga, Vicbosa SACCO Chairman Frankline Muchile said, “Our SACCO has been instrumental in leading initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of the boda boda operators in Vihiga County. This digital transformation program is going to streamline our SACCO’s performance through superior service delivery to our members”.
The project is also as a result of the collaboration spearheaded by the County Government of Vihiga with the SACCO.
The occasion was also used to launch the SACCO’s five year strategic plan and the planned development of their land.
Car & General’s Chief Information Officer, Gilbert Mutai said, “The initiative, apart from enhancing operational efficiency, financial management and member services, will also provide members with secure, transparent and automated financial systems, ensuring accountability and leverage digital tools for enhanced financial inclusion.”
George Rubiri, the General Manager of Car & General (Trading) Limited said, “C&G played a pivotal role in this digital transformation that will ensure SACCO members access digital banking, automated savings, loan management, real time payment tracking and financial literacy programs. We are committed to the empowerment of boda boda and tuk tuk SACCO by streamlining financial processes for enhanced financial inclusion.”
SACCOS are crucial for motorcycle taxi industry in Kenya as they offer financial inclusion by providing services members may not access through traditional banking.
The services include regular saving and access to affordable credit.
They also provide a good collective bargaining platform, social welfare that creates a sense of community and generally develops the boda boda sector.
The boda boda industry is a critical mode of transportation that offers affordability and convenience.
The sector employs many young Kenyans and is a source of livelihood for many, contributing over 1 billion Kenya Shillings to the economy daily.
The event was also used to introduce the SACCO’s e-mobility initiative. Last year, C&G launched its e-three wheelers in Kenya and is working on an appropriate two wheeler product.
E-mobility will cut down emissions and thus alleviate challenges of climate change.
Car & General is a diversified distributor of motorcycles, three wheelers, tractors, forklifts, generators, earthmovers among other equipment in East Africa.
Distributors of TVS motorcycles and Piaggio three-wheelers, Car & General was the pioneer of the two and three wheelers as taxis in Kenya over two decades ago.
KPA MD Captain Ruto Hailed For Performance
A section of Mombasa residents has hailed Kenya Ports Authority Captain William Ruto for his performance.
The group, expressed their unwavering support and confidence in the entire KPA management, saying they have done a marvelous job of streamlining the port operations and ensuring efficient service delivery to all port users and the community through the Corporate Social Initiative (CSI).
KPA has achieved performance beyond expectations by global standards. This good work must not be endangered through malicious propaganda, innuendoes and personal grudges,” said one of the residents, Micheal Magak.
The group took issue with an article published recently by one of the local newspapers terming it as sensational.
"This is purely malice, it is the work of those who are not comfortable with the changes that the MD has made in the Authority." Said Micheal Nato.
Adding" The MD is doing a tremendous and it is expected that it will make some people uncomfortable, we are encouraging him to continue with the good job, we are behind him"
TEKNO Kicks Off 2025 With Infectious New Single 'Al Haji'
Afropop superstar Tekno, popularly known by the moniker Alhaji Tekno, kicks off 2025 in blazing style with “Alhaji,” a high-energy love anthem that’s already causing a stir online.
Produced by rising talent Ranson Beatz, Alhaji finds Tekno in top form, delivering heartfelt lyrics about a woman who has him completely captivated and singing “she holds me for work”.
The track is a celebration of irresistible passion and connection, wrapped in the feel-good energy that has made Tekno one of Africa’s most beloved hitmakers.
The video reinforces the single’s high-energy, feel-good vibe. It’s a fast-paced visual that follows Tekno as he visits lively locations, dancing alongside a lively group of performers and sharing playful, romantic moments with his leading lady.
Even before its official release, a snippet of Alhaji has gone viral, racking up over 8,000 users on TikTok as fans across the world create videos, dances and moments inspired by the song’s infectious vibe.
With a career boasting global smashes like “Pana,” “Duro,” and “Skeletun,” multi-platinum certifications, international collaborations and writing credits for stars like Drake and Ciara, Tekno has consistently proven himself as a leader in Afrobeats and a driving force in pushing African music onto the global stage.
Alhaji marks his first release of 2025, setting the tone for a year full of music, surprises and big moments.
'Let Him Cook' By King Kaka Premiers With Exclusive Watch Party and Drop
It’s official -Let Him Cook is now live!
Kenya’s celebrated artist and entrepreneur, King Kaka, in partnership with Bio Food Products Ltd, Highlands Drinks Ltd, and Ma Cuisine Ltd, brought together fans, friends, and industry partners for a vibrant evening at the “Let Him Cook” Red Carpet Watch Party held on Monday, 19th May 2025 at Replay NBO, Broadwalk Mall.
This also marked the release of Episode 1 of the highly anticipated cooking show.
The exclusive invite-only event kicked off with a red-carpet experience, where guests were welcomed with flashing lights, high fashion, and media interviews by top mainstream stations and digital content creators.
The evening set the tone for an unforgettable night of entertainment, creativity, and celebration.
Guests were treated to a live cooking show where King Kaka, known for his lyrical genius, stepped into an entirely new role-chef for the night.
In a captivating mix of humor, storytelling, and skill, Kaka prepared a full meal live on stage, sharing a few laughs and taste tests with lucky audience members.
The immersive show blended food, personality, and performance in a way only King Kaka could deliver.
"This partnership with King Kaka speaks to more than just brand alignment — it’s about authenticity, purpose, and celebrating local excellence,” said Waithera Ng’ang’a, Group Director, Corporate Affairs.
“King Kaka’s values, influence, and ability to connect with real people make him the perfect voice for a show that champions bold, honest conversations around food and identity.”
In his closing remarks, King Kaka expressed heartfelt gratitude to his fans, celebrity friends, and partners who showed up in support of the new project.
"This is a new side of me, and I’m humbled by the love. Thank you for believing in the vision,” he shared.
Let Him Cook episodes will air every Monday at 8:00 PM on King Kaka’s official YouTube channel.
