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November 2018 | What’s Hot
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What’sHOT in THE BEARD FESTIVAL 2018 NAIROBI ARBORETUM NOVEMBER 19
Happening in the month of #NoShaveNovember, this is a fun event meant to create awareness of cancer in Kenya. Performances by DJ Andre, DJ Creme and DJ Kace.
BLANKETS & WINE X 10 YEARS, NGONG RACECOURSE, NOVEMBER 4
PIC: TEDDY MURAYA
Join in on Blankets & Wine’s 10-year anniversary party with performances by some of Kenya’s best musicians including: Blinky Bill, Nyashinski, Muthoni Drummer Queen and Sauti Sol.
SAFARI SEVENS RUGBY 2018, RFUEA GROUNDS, NOVEMBER 9-11
Africa’s premier seven-a-side tournament will give rugby enthusiasts two days of high adrenaline competition and entertainment.
LAMU CULTURAL FESTIVAL 2018, LAMU ISLAND, NOVEMBER 22-25
Come celebrate the beauty, history and traditions of this old island with dhow races, donkey races, henna painting, traditional dances and cultural displays.
BIZARRE BAZAAR CHRISTMAS CRAFT FESTIVAL 2018, KARURA FOREST NOVEMBER 10-11
This awesome open air market brings you over 80 stalls exhibiting traditional and contemporary crafts and handmade products from across Africa. You’ll be spoilt for choice.
BRAEBURN PANTOMIME - BEAUTY & THE BEAST BRAEBURN THEATRE NOVEMBER 23-25 KAKAMEGA FOREST MARATHON 2018, NOVEMBER 19
From Braeburn Players and Charlotte Everest of the renowned UK drama school Mountview, comes a magical pantomime.
The marathon seeks to create awareness and raise funds to restore and conserve the only remaining Guinea Congolian rainforest in Kenya.
KENYABUZZ A NATION MEDIA GROUP PUBLICATION 25 PARKLANDS ROAD NAIROBI
MANAGING EDITOR: TIM MWORIA EDITORS: JACQUELINE KENDI | FLORA M’MBONE CREATIVE DESIGNER: LINUS OMBETTE COVER DESIGNER: BRIAN MUNENE
CONTENT CONTRIBUTORS: LENA ANYUOLO I MAUREEN KASUKU | TEDDY MURAYA | BRIAN KASAINE ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: CAROLINE MULU | RODRICKS OIDI
CONTACT US: PHONE (SALES): +254 727 288 036 EMAIL (FEEDBACK): INFO@KENYABUZZ.COM TWITTER: @KENYABUZZ
XMASBOX 2018, MARULA MANOR NOVEMBER 23-25
Looking to do some Christmas shopping and enjoy a family day out? Xmas box exhibits the very best of East Africa’s designers for three days.
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COURSES, LECTURES & WORKSHOPS
Alchemist Talks Careers with Brave Ventures: The Alchemist Bar, November 1st, 6pm. A series of career talks with a variety of Kenya’s best recruiting services and career platforms. 0778 917708. Business Mums, Business Women Network: Pride Inn Suite Hotel, November 2nd, 8am, advance; Ksh 3,000, gate; Ksh 3,500. Business network meeting for women in Kenya. Guest speaker: Wandia Gichuru. 0708 115132. Advance Permaculture Certification Course: Distant Relatives Kilifi Lodge, November 5th – 17th, 9am. Here is a great opportunity for regenerative skill building, learning food security tools and general self-reliance in a beautiful setting on a super budget. 0702 232323. Customer Service Training with Dr. Derrick Samuels: Hotel Intercontinental, November 5th – 7th, 8am, Ksh 49,500. Learn of the elusive factors that can take a customer care unit from mediocre to exceptional. 0711 951598, cmilanoi@wabcomventures.com The Talk on Creativity: The Nairobi Art Centre, November 9th, 5pm. Talk by Rodney Omeokachie, a creative consultant and photographer based in Abuja, Nigeria. 0727 415678.
dance with one of Persia’s best belly dancers, Azin. 0726 148780, thedancefactoryke@gmail.com Afrobeat & Dancehall Group Classes: Lavington Mall, every Wednesday, 7pm – 8pm, Ksh 1,000 per class. Where dancehall meets Afrobeat. Be part of the fun as you keep fit and dance your stress away with dance instructor Chiluba. 0723 325680, dancefactoryke@gmail.com Get Fit the Funky Way Dance Sessions: Two Rivers, every Wednesday, 10am, free. Don’t know a move? Shake it till you make it. 0726 148780, thedancefactoryke@gmail.com Salsa Classes: Tribe Hotel, every Wednesday, 5pm, from Ksh 2000. Learn how to salsa with the teachers; John Paul Owino, Marion Munga, Michael Muriithi and Mark Onyango. 020 720365, marketing@tribehotel-kenya.com Salsa Fridays: Art Caffé-The Oval, every Friday, Salsa is gripping the floor from 7pm. So whether it’s dinner or drinks tonight, put your best foot forward and get ready for some salsa. 0709 202020, customercare@artcaffe.co.ke Kizomba Group Classes: Lavington Mall, every Friday, 7pm – 8pm, Ksh 1200 per session. The Dance Factory invites you to our Kizomba group classes. 0723 325680, thedancefactoryke@gmail.com
FESTIVALS & CRAFT FAIRS Asenka Community Market: Kileleshwa Primary School, November 3rd, 9am. Wide variety of vendors ranging from crafts, fashion, jewellery, home decor, cloths, gadgets, handmade, food & drinks, treats etc.0707844008, asenkacommunity@gmail.com
4th African Summit on Entrepreneurship and Innovation (ASENTI): USIUAfrica, November 15th – 17th, 7am. A forum that brings SMEs, startups, entrepreneurs, investors, innovators and different stakeholders for an intensive interaction, networking and training on entrepreneurship and innovation from across Africa. 0720 729592. JiraOps, OpsGenie and Trello - Drivers of Change: iHub, November 17th, 5pm-8pm, Join the Nairobi Atlassian User Group as they explore go-to market strategy through Atlassian newest product JiraOps and OpsGenie with an eye on Drivers of Change and implementing agile at Home through Trello.
DANCE
Group Classes: West Wood Hotel, every Tuesday, 7pm, Ksh 1000 per class or Ksh 6,000 for 8 classes. Join us for a fun night of dancing, everyone can dance so come relax, unwind and have fun with great salsa. 0723 325680, thedancefactoryke@gmail.com Belly Dancing Group Class: Lavington Mall, every Tuesday and Friday, 7pm – 8pm, Ksh 1000 per class. Learn how to belly
November 2018 | Events
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Naivasha Farmers’ Market: Longonot Farm, November 3rd, 11am. Come and join us for a late Octoberfest. 0712 119849, naivashafarmersmarket@gmail. com Bizarre Bazaar Christmas Craft Festival: Karura Forest, November 10th-11th, 9am. This awesome open air market brings you over 80 vendors and charity stalls exhibiting traditional and contemporary crafts and mostly handmade products from across Africa and the world. You will be spoilt for choice. 0701 395902. Xmas Box 2018: Marula Manor, November 23rd – 25th, 9am. Come shop with us and get to own pieces from our new Sundae collection and pieces from our previous collections. They make for great gifts as well. 0712 267196. Lamu Cultural Festival: Lamu, November 23rd – 25th, 8am. A chance to experience Lamu life at its most exuberant and joyous. Karen Organic Farmers Market: Karen Village, every Wednesdays, 9am-7pm. Visit and shop for local produce and local goods. 0743 719863. The Junction Maasai Market: Junction Mall Ngong Road, every Thursday, 10:00am, free. The premier market for African artefacts and curios in Nairobi. 0715 225835.
Thursday’s Maasai Market: Garden City Mall, every Thursday, 10:00am, free. If you love authentic and creative African pieces, then Garden City is where you need to be this and every Thursday at our Masaai Market. 0780 966032, 0725 734823. Village Market Massai Market: Village Market, every Friday, 10:00am, free. Home for all colorful kikoys, curios, baskets, bead works, abstract art African figures and many other interesting African handicrafts. 0715 225835. High Court Grounds Maasai Market: High Court Grounds, every Saturday, 8:00am, free. A place to get beautiful sculptures, shoes, jewelry, clothes and a huge selection of other Kenyan crafts. 020 2713360, 020 2713361. K1 Flea Market: K1 Klub, every Sunday, 10am. Brunch, shop and chill. Entertainment by DJ Hypnotiq, CNG and the Untamed Band. 0717 969500. Zinduka Festival: Nairobi, Kenya, November 24th-30th. This arts and social justice festival brings together members of the six East African countries aimed at intergration at the grassroots. www.zindukafestival.org.
FILM
Science Film Festival: The Discovery Centre, November 5th, 10am. Explores issues around nutrition and meeting the demands of a fast growing global population as one of the key challenges of this century internationally. Out of Africa International Film Festival 4th Edition: Michael Joseph Centre, November 27th, 8am. Screening high-calibre features, documentaries and short films from all over Africa and outside Africa. Movie Night Monday: K1 Klub House, every Monday, 7pm. Enjoy your favorite films: classics, local, Hollywood & Bollywood films. 0717 969 500. Kenyan Film Night - The Cut: The Alchemist, November 6th, 6pm. We will be screening The Cut, an award winning feature film by Peter Gitau and host a panel discussion with the cast. 0778 917708. Film Screening: A Plastic Ocean: The Alchemist, November 13th, 8pm. Craig Leeson discovers a startling amount of plastic pollution in the world’s oceans, the focus of this documentary. info@ alchemist254.com
FOOD & WINE
Unlimited Ribs: Nyama Mama Delta Towers, every Tuesday, 7pm, Ksh 1,800. Each and every Tuesday get as much as you can eat ribs. 020 7602067. BBQ Wednesday: Baluba, every Wednesday, 6pm, Ksh 3,800. Fire up your midweek evenings at Baluba restaurant with their vast BBQ themed buffet spread complete with live cooking and carving stations, because no great story started with someone eating salad. 0709 548180.
Dim Sum and Beer: Pan Asia Yao, every Thursday, 4pm, Ksh 2,000. Every Thursday they’re introducing their Happy Hour because you’re all that and Dim Sum. 0710 886688. Happy Hour: The Jockey Club, every Friday, 6pm. ‘Why get stuck in traffic when you could get stuck in a bar’. Enjoy happy hour as you listen to tunes from the Hashtag Band this and every Friday! 0732 120000. All Day Happy Hour: The Grove, every Friday, 12pm. Enjoy all day happy hour this and every Friday. 0727 407167. Cafe American Weekend Combo: Hilton Hotel, Saturdays and Sundays, 11am, Ksh 650. Grab a deluxe beef sandwich and get a free cup of your favourite tea or coffee absolutely free! 0732 120000. The Weekend Wok: Pan Asian Yao, every Sunday, 12pm, Ksh 2,500. This brunch will be with unlimited cocktails and wine (at the wine & cocktail station) + unlimited food. 0710 886688.
for one deal on cocktails, house wines and beer. 0709 548183. Nairobi Stew - Where Nairobians Create Change: Nairobi Garage, November 7th, 5pm, Ksh 500. A community dinner that offers a vibrant and inspiring space where people convene, share a bowl of stew, build new connections and reacquaint with older ones. info@ thekijiji.co.ke Monday Burger: Persia Lounge, every Monday, 12pm. Get two tasty burgers with fries and a soft drink for only Ksh 1000. 0787 788888, info@persia.co.ke Wine Wednesdays: Persia Lounge, every Wednesday, 5pm. Date night plans and happy hour are set for you to enjoy. 0787 788888, info@ persia.co.ke Cocktail Daily: Persia Lounge, daily, 5pm. Get a happy hour on all cocktails every single day. 0787 788888, info@persia.co.ke
EXPOSITIONS
Handcrafted in Kenya Trade Fair: The Hub Karen, November 2nd – 4th, 8am. Showcasing amazing talent in the world of arts and craft, jewellery, shoes, bags and apparel. All made in Kenya, ready for export. 0701 623297 3rd Beauty Kenya 2018 International Trade Exhibition: MedHeath, November 23rd – 25th, 10am. A prime event in Kenya attracting visitors from 17 African countries. Getaway Tourism Fair: Sarit Centre, November 2nd, 9am. Hosting 65 exhibitors and major tourism players. Come get package offers for the Christmas holidays and the subsequent seasons to follow. info@saritcentre. com 5th KPSA Expo: Citam Schools Woodley, November 28thDecember 1st, 8am-5pm. Stop by the Kenya Private Schools Association’s annual expo and learn about admission processes for 2019 and different financing options. 0727 593129.
Sunday Brunch: Ankole Grill, every Sunday, 10am. Enjoy an ala carte Brunch at Ankole Grill every Sunday from 10.00am to 4.00pm, and happy hour from 4.00pm to 7.00pm. 0710 202020. Happy Hour: La Mesa, daily, 5pm. How can you miss happy hour at La Mesa? Along with the amazing night time city views. Enjoy a two
Retreat: Biblica Guest House, November 24th, 8am. Enjoy a weekend in a peaceful location in which you will rest and relax, and improve your physical health. 0721963156, info@ almasihealthcare.org
HEALTH & FITNESS
Christian Woman Wellness
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November 2018 | Events TRAVEL
November Hillcrest Community Walking Club: Ndiuni Hills, November 3rd, 7am, adults; Ksh 1000, kids; Ksh 500. This is a monthly walking club that will explore the Rift Valley Hills. marketing@hillcrest.ac.ke
FASHION & BEAUTY
Luxury Pop-up Market: 910 James Gichuru, November 3rd, 12pm. Art, fashion and cosmetics, real estate and financial products and food and drinks.0700 081324, m.wangari@pl-luxe.co.ke
SPORTS
Off-Road Challenge Kenya: Lukenya Hills, November 4th, 8am, adults; Ksh 800, kids; Ksh 500. The challenges are an exciting spectacle that capture the competitive spirit of off-road motorsport. 0701 395902. Kajiado XC 2018: Kajiado, November 10th, 9am. 82 kms of endurance challenge for both male and female hardcore athletes looking for an off-road experience. Kakamega Forest Marathon: Kakamega Forest National Reserve, November 24th, 7am, Ksh 1000. The marathon seeks to create awareness and raise funds to restore and conserve the only remaining Guinea Congolean rainforest in Kenya. 0728 991343. Champagne 4X4 November Challenge: Champagne Park, November 24th, 2pm. Get ready for a new 4x4 course. We can guarantee more entertainment for spectators and a grueling weekend for competitors. 0727 961300. Diani Triathlon and Duathlon: Diani Reef Beach, November 25th, 8am. The event is open to individuals of all fitness levels as well as kids from the age of 11 years. 0722 637155. Round House: K1 Klub House, daily, 6pm. We invite you to watch all your football, GP karting, golf, rugby. All day, every day. Your one stop sports center. 0717 969500.
The JW Show 2018: Thika Road Mall, November 10th, 7pm, advance; Ksh 1500, VIP; Ksh 3000. Bringing together designers, models and fashion enthusiasts in a one-of-a-kind experience. 0724748796.
MUSIC
Blankets & Wine X 10 Years: Ngong Racecourse, November 4th, 12pm, Ksh 3,000. Join in on an epic anniversary celebration with performances by Blinky Bill, Sauti Sol, MDQ and more. Anto Live 2.0: The Alchemist, November 10th, 6pm. Go on a journey of smooth soul, reggae and African music to once again remind you why Anto Neosoul is considered Kenya’s finest singer. 0727 591116, info@alchemist254. com Jazz Night: K1 Klub House, every Tuesday, 7pm. With The Jazzique Band. Jazz It Up at The K1 Klub
www. House. 0717 969500. Fifi Moto & Band: Club Zodiak, every Tuesday, 6pm, free. Fifi Moto is a belly dancer with her band dancing and singing rumba throughout the night, amazing offers on dinner and drinks. 0726 41014, jayluci2001@gmail.com Mama’s Jamhuri Jam Sessions: Nyama Mama - Delta Towers, every Wednesday, 7pm, free. An eclectic night of live music by new, fresh and young talent. Mama’s providing a platform for these talented local musicians and giving you a chance to come and experience their music first hand. 0704 567567, yaya@nyamamama. com Karaoke Thursdays: The Airbus Lounge, every Thursday, 7pm, free. Don’t hesitate to go crazy and sing. In fact, we encourage it. 0724 589457 Jazz on the Waterfront: Two Rivers, every Friday, 6pm, free. Catch the renowned Kenyan jazz bands performing each Friday. 0799 847695 The Sunday Jazz Brunch at Lord Erroll: The Lord Erroll Restaurant, every Sunday, 12pm, free. It is the ideal day, environment and plan for family and friends to get together. 0721 920820, reservations@lord-erroll.com Thursday Nite Live Featuring Stan: J’s Fresh Bar & Kitchen, November 1st, 8pm-11pm, free. Come vibe to the acoustic soul and latin flow of Stan. 0707 612585. Mashabiki Concert: Deep West, Nairobi West, November 2nd, 6pm, Ksh 300. Live music concert that celebrates and promotes the diverse music of Africa, focusing on authentic musical genres like Benga, Rumba and Ohangla.
Thursday Nite Live Featuring Lavosti & Roots Connection Band: J’s Fresh Bar & Kitchen, November 8th, 8pm-11pm, free. This week we feature the reggae of Lavosti & Roots Connection Band. 0707 612585. Christina Shusho - Relax Album Launch: Parklands Baptist Church, November 11th, 3pm-6pm, Ksh 500. Join other fans of Tanzanian Gospel star Christina Shusho as she debuts her brand new album. Thursday Nite Live Featuring Aaron Rimbui: J’s Fresh Bar & Kitchen, November 15th, 8pm11pm, free. This week we welcome back to Nairobi, jazz pianist Aaron Rimbui from his extended sojourn in New York City’s jazz scene. 0707 612585. Legions: The Blues, Barclays Plaza, November 17th, 7pm-10pm, advance; Ksh 600, gate: Ksh 800. Come celebrate five years of rockin’ and kickin’ ass with one of the most kick-ass punk rock band RASH. 0736 011679. Thursday Nite Live Featuring Chris Adwar: J’s Fresh Bar & Kitchen, November 22nd, 8pm-11pm, free. This week we feature vocalist, keyboardist and band leader Chris Adwar and The Villagers Band. 0707 612585. Thursday Nite Live Featuring Murfy’s Flaw: J’s Fresh Bar & Kitchen, November 29th, 8pm11pm, free. This week we feature the alternative rock of Murfy’s Flaw. 0707 612585. Alice Kimanzi Live in Concert: International Christian Centre, November 18th, 3pm-6pm, Ksh 1,200. A worship concert hosted by Alice Kimanzi and graced by HPB Band, Eve Bahati, Laura Karwirwa and Daniel Chikwaza. Acoustic Wednesdays with Brian
Sigu: Dagoz Artist’s Bar & Venue, every Wednesday, 8pm. Come vibe to the acoustic tunes of Brian Sigu. 0721 847392. Karaoke Tuesday: Persia Lounge, every Tuesday, 5pm. Happy hour is set with a twist, prepare your vocals for a fun filled karaoke night. 0787 788888, info@persia. co.ke
SPECIAL EVENTS
Basic Obedience Training: Rosslyn Lone Tree Estate, November 4th, 9am. This class is for dogs fully vaccinated and over 5 months of age. 0733 255406, AmyLRapp@ aol.com The Beard Festival: The Nairobi Arboretum, November 19th, 11am, advance; Ksh 1,000, gate; Ksh 1,500. A day to create awareness of cancer in Kenya to ride on the worldwide concept of #NoShaveNovember.
Afro-Futurism: 2063: Goethe Institut, November 1st, 6pm. Join Tony Mochama, the author of the novel ‘2063 – Last Mile Bet’ in a discussion on the book’s legal themes. country.info@nairobi. goethe.org
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Family Festival 5 - Forces Unite: Arboretum, November 25th, 10am-6pm, A day of family fun and entertainment featuring music and comedy performances, family games, barbecue and art displays. 0717 632005. APA Awards 2018: University of Nairobi Towers, November 30th, 5pm-10pm. An annual event that brings together industry players and celebrates Kenyan creativity and excellence in advertising. 0737 869426.
THEATRE & STAGE
Jesus Christ Superstar: Braeburn Theatre, November 2nd, 7pm, adults; Ksh 800, kids; Ksh 500. This contemporary rock opera is a modern re-telling of the last two weeks of Jesus’s life, from the perspective of Judas. 0721499951. Braeburn Pantomime – Beauty and the Beats: Braeburn Theatre, November 23rd – December 2nd, 4pm. Braeburn Players is delighted to announce the Pantomime for this year is Beauty & the Beast, directed by Charlotte Everest from Mountview Drama School - UK. 020 5018000. Cyrus’s Recital “Ripples”: Michael Joseph Center, November 20th, 4pm-7pm, Ksh 500. A recital by Cyris Maina. Also performing: Enoque Wambua, Chikhwaza and Libby Ndambo. Brikicho - Seek The Hidden: Kenya National Theatre, November 10th, 5pm, advance; Ksh 200, gate; Ksh 300. Brikicho, Swahili for the ‘hide and seek’, is an investigative showcase by Mizizi Afriqa based on concealed activities and networks within Nairobi and how innocently they escape the public eye. 0704 464397.
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ART
Kuona Artist Collective: Kuona Trust, November 3rd, 10am, Ksh 300. Art featuring various artists from different collectives. Art in the Park: Uhuru Gardens, November 10th, 1pm, Ksh 2,500. This edition will be about Benga. 0721 348258. Paint & Sip: Kenya National Theatre, November 2nd, 5.30pm9pm, Ksh 2,500. Join us for the third edition where we’ll paint and enjoy fine wine. Doesn’t matter if you’ve never held a paint brush in your life. There will be stepby-step instructions given, and at the end of the evening take home your very own masterpiece. 0735 537001. Urban Culture 2018: Ivor Mead, Karen, November 24th, 2pm, Ksh 1,000. An annual fun event for art and urban mixed media scenes. It offers a place for creating art and finding innovative ways to blend cultures, movements, materials and techniques.
YOGA & MEDITATION
Two Day Silent Retreat: Manyika House, November 16th – 18th, 7am. Two days of silence, reflection, nature, great healthy food, a few hours of meditation each day (only if you want to!) and plenty of time to rest, relax and just be. 0727 388809, mindfullivingkenya@ gmail.com
November 2018 | Events
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Aerial & Yoga Retreat: Fatuma’s Tower, November 21st to 25th. A 4-night retreat on Lamu Island, coinciding with the Lamu Culture Festival. More aerial, more delicious food, more time on the beach and more local activities. Full Moon Weekend: Watamu Tree House, November 23rd, 6pm. Oriane will lead workshops and talks on aligned and balanced living, as well as providing health consultations. All this while experiencing the full moon rise over the sea. 0712 810055. Bikram Yoga Sessions: Bikram Yoga Nairobi, daily, 6am, 8am, 10am, 5pm, 7pm. A 90-minute series of 26 Hatha yoga postures and two breathing exercises, carried out in a room heated to 40 degrees celcius and 40 percent humidity. Yoga with Monika and Kelly: Banana House & Wellness Centre, daily, 9am-10am & 5pm-6pm. Yoga in a peaceful and green oasis on Lamu island. Both teachers adapt to the students who come to class, either a beginner’s class or a more vigorous vinyasa flow class. 0721 275538.
Vinyasa Flow with Christy: Acacia Studios, every Wednesday, 7:15pm-8:15pm. Get rid of the sleepy fog, commit to developing new healthier habits and set the intention for the rest of your day as Christy Lazicky takes through an energizing flow that awakens the body in a way that coffee can’t. 0721 111141. Yin Yoga with Joanne: Acacia Studios, every Tuesday, 5:30pm6:30pm. A unique style of yoga that targets deep connective tissues of the body. Yin yoga is a wonderful way to maintain flexibility. 0721 111141.
Shine Center Yoga Studio. info@ africayogaproject.org Drum n Yoga: The Arboretum, every Sunday, 11:00am, free. An amazing community yoga class energized by African drums. Come join us and be part of the community. 0707 907379, drumnyoga@gmail.com
KIDS EVENTS
Little Miss & Mr Kenya 2018: Michael Joseph Center, November 25th, 10am, child; Ksh 500, adult; Ksh 1,000. A festival for
Beginners’ Class with Sally: Acacia Studios, every Thursday at 5:30pm-6.30pm & every Saturday at 1:30pm- 3:00pm. This drop-in class will have a workshop feel to introduce you slowly and safely to the foundational yoga poses and transitions. 0721 111141. Yoga in the Arboretum: The Arboretum, every first Saturday of the month, 10am-11am, park entry: Ksh 50. Acacia Studios will bring a variety of their popular yoga classes to the Arboretum once a month. Come with your mat, drinking water and something warm to wear. 0721 111141. AYP Community Class: The Shine Center, Diamond Plaza, Saturdays, 10am-12pm. Africa Yoga Project’s 2-hour community class brings together over 300 people from all walks of life to share, struggle, sweat and shine at the
children age 3-17 years. Come let’s celebrate our culture and children’s creativity. 0703 735160. BootCamp Holiday Classes: Talanta Institute, November 12th23rd. Training in media, music and performing arts. Open to ages 7-19. 0734 777778. Kids Holiday Camp: Kids Fun Factory, November 5th – 9th, 10am, per day; Ksh 2500, weekly; Ksh 9000. It’s a whole week of fun for the young ones. 0706 511784.
African Kids Fashion Week 2018: Michael Joseph Centre, November 17th, 12pm. Come watch, shop and get advice on kid’s fashion. 0722 005890. Tots’ Training: Strong Start: Child Development Training, every Monday & Wednesday, 10am, from Ksh 23,200. This 10week intermediate level training offers nannies tools and skills on engaging your growing tot. 0717 911583, info@strongstart.co.ke Early Learners (12 - 24 Months): Strong Start: Child Development Training, every Tuesday & Thursday, 10am, Ksh 23,200. This 10-week training offers nannies and caregivers with a deep dive into early childhood development. 0717 911583, info@strongstart.co.ke Kingdom Kids Club Launch: Lukenya Gateaway, daily, 12pm. The launch of Lukenya Kingdom Kids Club. Fun, engaging activities plus meals.0780 880488 / 0736 880488 / 0727 880488 / 0724 987190, info@lukenyagetaway.com
NIGHTLIFE
EA Wave Presents High Tide: The Alchemist, November 10th, 7pm. From being featured at the first ever Boiler Room in Nairobi to playing international sets at Reunion Island and South Africa. Catch them live. info@alchemist254.com Urban Thursdays: Persia Lounge, every Thursday, 6pm. Music by DJ
Sejo backed by DJ Charm. 0787 788888, info@persia.co.ke Fancy Fridays: Persia Lounge, every Friday, 12pm. Dress snazzy and come get your happy hour on early. 0787 788888, info@persia. co.ke The Drip: Persia Lounge, every Saturday, 6pm. DJ Sanju will be bringing the music and the hype each and every weekend. 0787 788888, info@persia.co.ke One Love: K1 Klub House, every Thursday, 7pm. Every Thursday, all night! Weekly Jamaican inspired special offers. 0717 969500. Cool Running Thursday: Tribeka, every Thursday, 6pm, free, 0726 641014, jayluci2001@gmail.com. Experience the best nights ever. Back to the 80s Party: Jockey Pub, Hilton Hotel, every Friday, 6pm, free, 0732 120000 / 0719 026000. Travel back in time with us every first Friday of the month as we sample all the great hits of the 80’s magical era. Reggae With Chini Ya Mti: Club Zodiak, every Sunday, 6pm, free, 0726 641014, jayluci2001@gmail. com. Good music to the fullest, offers on shisha, dinner and drinks all through the night until morning. Upscale Dohty Family: Natives Sports Bar N Grill, every Sunday, 6pm, free, 0726 641014, jayluci2001@gmail.com. Reggae in the house with the dopiest DJ Chris on the decks.
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November 2018 | Lifestyle
s u r u G c ffi a r T e h T : e t Ma3Rou s o a h C f o t u O e s n e Creating S BY MAUREEN KASUKU
W
e all know how unpredictably infuriating Nairobi traffic can get; smooth and rosy on one turn, and then – bam! – a nightmare gridlock on the next. A 2017 report ranked Nairobi second, behind Mumbai, amongst global cities with the worst traffic jams. It’s in this painfully slow Kenyan reality that Ma3Route, a crowdsourced platform providing real time road updates, has grown to become a daily part of every Kenyan commuter’s life. Ma3Route’s disruptive technology, explosive growth, and solid social media presence makes it one of the most fascinating tech companies of its kind to emerge in Kenya since the turn of the decade. KENYABUZZ: What’s the story behind Ma3Route? How’d it all start? Ma3Route: With our founder Laban Okune. Soon after graduating university, he did what we all do – pounded the pavement, job hunting around Nairobi. He got lost severally and wished there was an easier way to know which matatu route to take to different areas of the city. The seed for Ma3Route was sown. KENYABUZZ: I just landed from Mars and need a quick Ma3Route beginner’s guide for dummies. Ma3Route: Get a phone with internet connection, get on to twitter, and search for the Ma3Route community. Or, download the Ma3Route app on Play Store and get all the information you need. KENYABUZZ: Where do you get most of your traffic from? (No pun intended) Ma3Route: Motorized & non-motorized road users. KENYABUZZ: Which platform is the most interactive for Ma3Route? Ma3Route: Twitter.
KENYABUZZ: Ma3route has grown in leaps since 2012. How different is it now from when you started? Ma3Route: In the beginning a lot of the hard work went into proving ourselves, but now the brand is very easily identifiable. It speaks for itself. KENYABUZZ: How does the company make its money? Ma3Route: We make our revenues from online advertising, API model & traffic SMS alerts. KENYABUZZ: What’s it like working at Ma3 Route? Ma3Route: It’s very chill, very Kenyan.
LABAN OKUNE, MA3ROUTE CEO/FOUNDER, RECEIVES PIVOT EAST AWARD IN 2013
KENYABUZZ: In 2014, Ma3Route won the Kenya Vision 2030 ICT Innovation award. Tell us about that. Ma3Route: Crowd sourcing was largely uncharted territory in the country and Ma3Route proved this possible. Our platform uses ICT to collect and share information. KENYABUZZ: Here’s an idea, how about a matatu ride sharing feature. If anyone can do it, it’s you guys. We want royalties, LOL. Ma3Route: That would be interesting... KENYABUZZ: What can we expect from Ma3 Route in 2019? Ma3Route: More focus on growing the reach in other major counties.
n o ti a v o n In h c e T ’s a y n e K g 5 Cool Spaces Drivin BY BRIAN KASAINE
“T
he factory of the future will have only two employees: a man, and a dog. The man will be there to feed the dog. The dog will be there to keep the man from touching the equipment.” This waggish, ticklish remark was made by Warren G. Bennis about where the world is headed in tech. And though we may worry about our jobs being replaced by machines, Kenya can’t afford to lag behind in technological advancements because whether we are on board or not, the train is coming. Well, we are fiercely convinced that Kenyans can and should be not just on board, but drive the train. And we are happy to see that the government and private sector are doing what they can to nurture the necessary talent through tech spaces and incubators that provide opportunity for fledgling techpreneurs. These spaces offer shared workspace, networking opportunities, investor connections, and mentorships that are helping our talent get their big ideas off the ground. Here are a few of our favourites:
FabLab: Set up in 2009 as part of the international FabLab network which started at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the lab located within the University of Nairobi’s School of Engineering is an incubator with a focus on engineering, computing and robotics. The lab takes a novel approach to innovation; provide a space for self-taught innovators, who will in turn teach other budding innovators. Some of the innovations to come out of the lab include; a 3-D printer, an ergonomic laptop stand, an electromechanical delivery bed, among other cool techy creations. Location: University of Nairobi - Main Campus, Harry Thuku Road
iHub: For almost 8 years now, this globally recognized space has successfully incubated and supported tech-focused businesses, fulfilling their mandate to be deeply steeped in the local tech innovation culture. A haven for web and mobile phone programmers and designers, iHub is just the place for you if you’re an early stage entrepreneur who would like to build your idea in a dynamic space, among other creative and progressive minds, while still saving money on offices. Location: Senteu Plaza (6th Floor), Galana/Lenana Road Junction
November 2018 | Lifestyle
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QUICK FIRE: The most chaotic traffic: Jogoo road or Mombasa road? Definitely Mombasa Road. Chock-a-block traffic: Monday morning or Friday evening? Monday morning, the pressure is off on Friday. Who has the most lit ma3’s: Rongai or Buru Buru? Rongai nganyas!
BitHub Africa: This is an accelerator where blockchain, cryptocurrency and Internet of Things (IoT) innovators can collaborate and learn from one another in a free environment. Blockchain technology is arguably the next big thing in Kenya as seen earlier this year when President Kenyatta directed the ICT minister Joe Mucheru to scramble a taskforce to leverage on blockchain and IoT technologies. That driven home, BitHub is the oven where the best pool of expertise is created in this area, across the African continent. Location: Timau Plaza (2nd Floor), Argwings Kodhek Road
Nairobi AI: This space hosts a lively community of artificial intelligence researchers, developers, educators, data scientists and enthusiasts. Every Saturday, they gather at the IBM Innovation Center in Kilimani to network, learn, discuss emerging trends in AI, and have fun. It brings together cool energy from AI startups, tech companies and academia, to bake AI solutions for the government’s Big 4 Agenda as well as some of Africa’s greatest challenges.
Mettā Nairobi: This global entrepreneurs’ club started off in Hong Kong before opening up its Nairobi space in 2016. Mettā connects people, ideas and resources, bringing the global startup ecosystem closer together. They believe that innovation doesn’t happen in isolation, rather via collaboration. By working with Kenyan entrepreneurs and investors, Mettā puts itself at the forefront of financial technology (FinTech) innovation in Nairobi.
Location: Atrium Building (4th Floor), Chaka Road/Lenana Road
Location: Belgravia Business Center (Suite 6A), 14 Riverside Drive
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Kenyan Tech Heroes
Do you know anyone using technology to make a positive difference in their corner of the world? Shout them out on twitter using #KBTechHero
BY LENA ANYUOLO Did you know that technology is creating more billionaires than any other field in the 21st century? uperstar techpreneurs like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg forever changed the way we live, and for their troubles, found fame and fortune. But not all tech heroes wear capes. Away from the flash and glamour, visionary young Kenyans are using tech for social good within their communities. Here are a few of our favourites.
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Smart E-Con Wheelchair: Peter Maina pioneered this prototype wheelchair back in 2014 when he was still an electronics student in university. The wheelchair is built to make a world of difference in the daily lives of disabled persons. Not only does it deliver extreme mobility including being able to climb staircases, it also monitors the health of its user and helps them stand upright – all features which surpass any powered wheelchair available.
iCut: When a prestigious Google award called for competitiors to identify a problem in their community and create a mobile app solution, five teenage girls from Kisumu came up with the winning anti-FGM app, iCut. The app is built to tackle female genital mutilation by connecting affected girls to legal and medical assistance. Girls who are also forced into FGM can press a panic button on the app that alerts authorities who will then rescue the girls.
Usalama: This app is Edwin Iganji’s alternative to the defunct 999 emergency police line. Usalama is your plug to emergency help. It allows you to send messages to emergency service providers and three predefined contacts of close family and friends. In case of an emergency, users can shake their phone or long press the volume button which then sends the distress signal. Users also have access to a database of rapid response emergency services and can get security updates from around the country.
Ndovu Care: Inspired to resolve the human-wildlife conflict in Sagalla Hills near Tsavo, three high school mates, Joyce Mutoto, Nancy Wairimu and Macrina Antonia invented Ndovu Care, a solar powered device which uses motion sensors to detect the presence of jumbos. When the sensor gets triggered, it sets off an LED light and siren that scares away the elephants. An SMS alert is simultaneously sent to the Kenya Wildlife Service and surrounding community members that elephants have strayed in the area.
ABOVE IMAGE: “TEAM RESTORERS” WHO CREATED ICUT. LEFT TO RIGHT: IVY AKINYI, SYNTHIA OTIENO, DORCAS ADHIAMBO OWINO (MENTOR), PURITY ACHIENG, STACY OWINO AND MACRINE ATIENO
Let’s Talk About Sex…Tech BY LENA ANYUOLO Sex technology is growing exponentially; long gone are the days when sex toys were limited to a simple battery-operated dildo. Now, we are harnessing the best of our resources, from AI to augmented and virtual reality, to create customised sex tech that is sensitive to our pleasures. Most recently, a life-size sex robot called Samantha created a worldwide buzz. Sex dolls aren’t new to the sex industry, so what was so special about Samantha? According to its Barcelona-based engineer Sergi Santos, the robot’s ‘genomes’ are programmed to give her a unique personality and libido. Samantha is equipped with the latest artificial intelligence technology, and just like a human being, responds differently according to how she is treated; for instance, she has to be seduced in order to ‘get in the mood’. Earlier in the year, the Samantha craze caught on locally too – in its own different way. Demand for the robot was high in Kenya, but while the rest of the world shared their fears on the ethics of sexual relations with a robot that couldn’t
consent, we were occupied with the doll’s threat to our ‘moral fibre’. Eventually, customs officials ended up destroying consignments of Samantha robots as soon as they landed on our docks. According to Beverly Munga, a lawyer-turned-sextechpreneur who runs the online sex toy shop G-Spot Kenya, the Samantha robots that made it inland before the whole furore fetched upwards of $1,000 (Ksh 100,000) each. Asked about the future prospects of Kenya’s sex tech industry, Beverley takes a less-than-optimistic outlook, “Customs officials are closing up the market for us. They sometimes berate you when they inspect your container and find a bunch of sex toys. And they accuse you of plotting to destroy homes and erode African culture. I’m not very hopeful on the future of our sex tech industry, if customs remain uptight.” As sex technology continues to grow in leaps and bounds, and the debate around the ethics of sex with robots heats up, it will be interesting to see if Kenya will catch up with digi-sexuality.
ABOVE: THANDIE NEWTON AND ANGELA SARAFYAN BOTH PLAY SEX ROBOTS ON HIT TV SERIES WESTWORLD. RIGHT: SEX ROBOT SAMANTHA WITH INVENTOR SERGI SANTOS.
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November 2018 | Lifestyle
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The Game of Drones
BY BRIAN KASAINE
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hat would you do if someone told you that a flying taxi is going to carry you across town, or, that a drone is going to deliver your pizza order to your doorstep? You’ll probably tell them to quit watching too many movies, right? But, it’s true that we’re edging ever closer to the high-tech future that sci-fi movies dream up. Kenya opening up the use of drones for recreational, commercial, and private activities, could
come with it a wealth of possibilities and opportunities. These are just some of the awesome applications that drones will have in the near future. Medical supplies: Rwanda is a good benchmark owing to the fact that it has made over 1,000 successful blood deliveries to its blood transfusion centers. Kenya can now also pounce on this opportunity and get set to deliver medical supplies and vaccines to the most remote of locations using drones. E-commerce: Shipping and
delivery of goods and products ordered online can be more efficient, cheaper and quicker if this opportunity is explored. Disaster management: When disaster strikes, the extent of the damage can be assessed using camera-bearing drones. Agriculture: Multi-spectral sensors mounted on drones not only cut a clear picture of how crops perform through thermal imaging, but also give real-time insight to farmers which is then used to apply water and fertilizer to only
the affected areas of the farm. Spraying drones are more efficient and quicker, designed to avoid overspray risk. Moreover, drones can be used in planting more seeds in less time. Geographic mapping: Through drones, footage of areas with inaccessible terrain is acquired and it goes a long way in geographic mapping. Pollination: As bee populations declines across the world, scientists have been copying nature to develop pollination drones that replicate
bees’ role in pollination, assisting both the real bees and human farmers. Drones have the potential to improve our daily lives, but the current regulations governing drone operations as proposed in the Civilian Aviation Act (Remote Piloted Aircraft Systems Regulations, 2017), are still complex and unfriendly. Are you a private drone operator in Kenya? Tell us what you use your drone for on twitter using #DronesKe
www.thrill.co.ke
BUNGEE JUMPING 9th
December 2018
SAGANA KSHS/=8,000 COST COVERS:
#Transfers(Nairobi and Back) #BBQ Lunch #Bungee Jumping Experience #Two Shark Energy drinks #and LOTS of FUN MPESA TILL: 234937 (Thrill Excursions) Call: 0722 621 677 fred@thrill.co.ke
IMAX Film Festival
October 22 - November 16, 2018 11 Movies for only 990/Passes available on www.kenyabuzz.com/movies
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November 2018 | Movies
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S A M E IN C O T G IN COM
THE NUTCRACKER AND THE FOUR REALMS
NOBODY’S FOOL
THUGS OF HINDOSTAN
THE GIRL IN THE SPIDER’S WEB
A young girl is transported into a magical, strange and mysterious world of gingerbread soldiers and an army of mice. Release Date: 2nd November 2018 Genre: Adventure, Family, Fantasy Cast: Mackenzie Foy, Keira Knightley, Helen Mirren
A woman released from prison reunites with her sister but soon discovers that her picture-perfect life and boyfriend may not be what they seem. Release Date: 2nd November 2018 Genre: Comedy, Drama Cast: Tiffany Haddish, Whoopi Goldberg, Tika Sumpter
A thug and his gang’s nefarious ways pose a serious challenge to the British Empire in India between 1790 and 1805. Release Date: 8th November 2018 Genre: Action, Adventure Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan, Katrina Kaif
A young computer hacker and a journalist find themselves caught in a web of spies, cybercriminals and corrupt government officials. Release Date: 9th November 2018 Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller Cast: Claire Foy, Sylvia Hoeks, Lakeith Stanfield
FANTASTIC BEASTS: THE CRIMES OF GRINDELWALD In an effort to thwart Grindelwald’s plans of raising pure-blood wizards to rule over all non-magical beings, Albus Dumbledore enlists his former student Newt Scamander. Release Date: 16th November 2018 Genre: Adventure, Family, Fantasy Cast: Eddie Redmayne, Katherine Waterston, Johnny Depp
RALPH BREAKS THE INTERNET
SEARCHING
CREED II
Six years after the events of “Wreck-It Ralph”, Ralph and Vanellope, now friends, discover a wi-fi router in their arcade, leading them into a new adventure. Release Date: 23rd Novenber 2018 Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy Cast: Kristen Bell, Gal Gadot, Mandy Moore
After his 16-year-old daughter goes missing, a desperate father breaks into her laptop to look for clues to find her. Release Date: 30th Novenber 2018 Genre: Drama, Mystery, Thriller Cast: John Cho, Debra Messing, Joseph Lee
Under the tutelage of Rocky newly crowned light heavyweight champion Adonis faces off against Viktor Drago, the son of Ivan Drago. Release Date: 30th Novenber 2018 Genre: Drama, Sport Cast: Michael B. Jordan, Tessa Thompson, Sylvester Stallone
November 2018 | Movies
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Fantastic Beasts 2: It’s Gonna Be Magic! BY TIM MWORIA
F
an of the Harry Potter franchise? It’s time to get excited about this month’s most-anticipated movie release: Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. The long-awaited follow up to the 2016 Harry Potter spinoff, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, sees the return of Oscar-winner Eddie Redmayne as wizard Newt Scamander. In this one, he is called upon by Professor Dumbledore (Jude Law) to track down evil wizard Gellert Grindelwald who was unmasked at the end of the first movie, to surprisingly reveal Johnny Depp. Mostly happening away from the Prohibition-era New York we gawked at in the original, this magical sequel plunges us into yet another wistful early 20th century metropolis, 1920s Paris. Newt must stop Grindelwald who is intent on exposing the wizarding community to the non-magical world. If you’re a Potterhead, you’ll have a blast stumbling across lots of people, places and things that you will recognize from the books – including Nagini, Lord Voldemort’s terrifying snake who is a great source of mystery in the Harry Potter books. If you’re coming into this one as a novice of J. K. Rowling’s famous wizarding world, don’t fuss, because you won’t need to be a guru of the franchise to enjoy watching The Crimes of Grindelwald. While magical adventure was the hallmark of the first Fantastic Beasts movie, this one will be all about dazzling visuals and high stake thrills which lend themselves perfectly to the big screen. Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald will be released in Kenyan cinemas on November 16, 2018.
kets on Book your advance tic/m ovies om z.c uz ab www.keny
BLACK
M T W T F S S
NOVEMBER
Movie Night Live Jazz
Speaker Box ONE LOVE REGGAE The House Party The Saturday Social K1 Flea Market
@ The
K1 Klub House
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November 2018