Free Copy
March 2016
Art Workshops Expositions Festivals/Craft Fairs Film Food/Wine Kids Events Music Nature Nightlife Photography Special Events Sport Theatre Dance Travel Yoga
Salsa Fiesta: Caramel Restaurant & Lounge, March 5th, 7pm, Ksh 1000, 0723 325680, thedancefactory@gmail.com. There will be a salsa class will be from 7pm-8pm, for both beginner and intermediate dancers.
Tinga Tinga Tales The Musical: The Elephant, March 24th, 6pm - 12am, Ksh1000, 0724 894106, Sheba.hirst@gmail.com. A Tiger Tinga & Rainmaker Production: Tinga Tinga Tales The Musical.
Food & Wine
Sports
11th Koroga Festival: Nairobi Arboretum, March 13th, 12pm, Ksh1500, koroga@ capitalfm.co.ke. It’s official, Le Grand Mopao Koffi Olomide will be live in Nairobi for the 11th edition of the Koroga Festival.
March Fest Kenya (B.Y.O.B): Nairobi Arboretum, March 5th, 2pm - 12am, advance: Ksh 1000, at the gate: Ksh 1500, VIP: Ksh 2000, 0724 542452. March Fest provides the backdrop for the music industry’s hottest upcoming Djs, emerging talent and local favorites to create unforgettable live music experiences in a world-class festival setting.
Music
Rhino Charge Fundraiser: Braeburn’s Car 49: Braeburn Schools Gitanga Road, March 20th, 7am, Ksh20000, 0715 157142, Chrischilds88@gmail.com. Please help the team raise money for our environment and wildlife by supporting the Astro Hockey Tournament on Sunday 20 March.
2016 Shompole Wildlife Marathon: Loisiijo Lodge Shompole, March 20th, 7am, Ksh3000, 0771 342145, info@shompolewildlifemarathon.com. The 2016 Shompole Wildlife Marathon will return to you to the soul of the sport and leave you with a lifetime of memories.
Kid’s Events
Art
The First Lady’s Half Marathon 2016: Nyayo National Stadium, March 6th, 8am, Ksh1500, 020 2715144, 020 2711261. Run with the First Lady to save lives of women and children.
Fundraiser
First Ever Movie Expo | #Mx2016: Sarit Centre, March 19th, 10am, free, info@ moviejabber.co.ke, 0726 821899. The event will offer those in attendance a thrilling and engaging look at this year’s mammoth releases such as Batman v Superman: Dawn Of Justice, Captain America: Civil War, X-Men: Apocalypse, Warcraft, Suicide Squad and many more!
Festivals/ Craft Fairs
Nyama Choma Extravaganza - Nairobi Edition: Impala Rugby Grounds, March 5th, 12pm - 12am, Ksh 500, 0720572938, choma254@mamadukaventures.com. A regional event happening in Kigali (Rwanda), Kinshasa (Congo) and now Nairobi (Kenya).
Dance
Poetry Slam Africa: Alliance Française, Nairobi, March 13th, 2pm, Free, cre8ivespills@ gmail.com. 2016 brings with it a three part series of poetry slams culminating in a Grand Finale at the end of the year.
Film
Must Attend Events in March
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Art Poetry Slam Africa: Alliance Française, Nairobi, March 13th, 2pm, Free, cre8ivespills@gmail. com. 2016 brings with it a three part series of poetry slams culminating in a Grand Finale at the end of the year. Wine & Canvas: Tribal Gallery, March 5th, 3pm, Ksh3500, 0722836569, lisa@thisisconfetti.co.ke. Hang on to your paintbrush for a night of artsy fun. Our talented local artist will instruct the featured artwork step-by-step while you relax, sip and paint along. The Bremen Town Musicians: The Nairobi Art Centre, until March 4th, 9am - 3pm, Ksh 3500, 0727 415678. Our intensive themed workshops are especially designed to educate children and youth in Arts and Crafts to encourage individual growth and creativity. Who I Am Who We Are: National Museums of Kenya, until March 27th 2016, 8am - 5pm, Ksh250, 0724 255299, info@ kenyamuseumsociety.org. Join us for a guided tour of the exhibition Who I Am Who We Are, a project on Kenyan identity by Wambui Kamiru and Xavier Verhoest. Souad Abdel Rassoul & Salah Elmur Exhibition: Red Hill Art Gallery, until March 27th, 11am - 5pm, Free, 0700 108989, 0700 108626, info@redhillartgallery.com. Red Hill Art Gallery is pleased to invite you for the opening of the exhibition of Souad Abdel Rassoul / Egypt & Salah Elmur / Sudan.
Theatre & Stage
A Man Like You: Multiple Venues, March 1st, 7pm - 12am, Ksh 2000, 0792 745927/ 0723 353645. An original play by Silvia Cassini A tense confrontation of two world views set in a windowless concrete room in modernday Somalia. Girl in My Soup: Alliance Française, Nairobi, March 4th, 6pm 12am, Ksh599, 0722 / 0737 74 55 41. Heartstrings Entertainment will go to show the surprise that will be met by the mice as they wait for the cats to leave. A Man Like You: Muthaiga Country Club, March 4th, 7pm - 12am, Ksh3500, 0723 433747. An original play by Silvia Cassini. Love & Light: PAWA254, March 5th, 5pm, Ksh500, 0723 303 709. All we need from you is to mark that date down and prepare for an amazing time! A Man Like You: The Purdy Arms, March 8th, 7pm - 12am, Ksh3500, 0792 745927. An original play by Silvia Cassini. Kenya Kona Thursday Night Showdown: Jockey Pub, Hilton Hotel, Thursdays, 6pm, Ksh 500, 020 2055954. Kenya Kona has lined up a riveting experience for your mind and ribs.
March 2016 I KENYA BUZZ Monthly
Kid’s Events
Kidz Cooking Corner: Tinga Tinga Tales The Musical: The Elephant, March 24th, 6pm - 12am, Ksh1000, 0724 894106, Sheba. hirst@gmail.com. A Tiger Tinga & Rainmaker Production: Tinga Tinga Tales The Musical. Kidz Cooking Corner: Fourways Junction, Wednesdays & Saturdays, 2pm, Ksh 1,200, 0708 571548. Learn how to: Bake desserts that are yummy and good for you among other stuff. Blow Out: The Carnivore Restaurant, daily, 12pm, 0722 204647, 0733 611608, reservations.carnivore@tamarind.co.ke. Free cake and a free meal for the birthday kid for a party for over 15 kids. It’s Swim Time: Sankara, daily, 10am - 2pm, Ksh 1500, 020 4208000, 0703 028000, connect@nairobi.sankara.com. Bring your friends and splash around during our family swim. Week days from 10am-2pm and weekends from 9am-4pm. Bumblebee Soccer Academy: Public Service Club, Weekends, 9am, Ksh7000, 0725 795305, 0734 488066, bumblebeesports@ gmail.com. Bumblebee Sports and Fitness is a sports organization that seeks to empower children through sports and developing their sporting abilities.
Film
Spaghetti Western: Italian Institute of Culture, March 3rd, 6pm, Ksh1000, 0736 202071, iicnairobi@esteri.it. Spaghetti Western: Film in English with Italian subtitles and Spaghetti of course + cash bar. Spice Talks 2016: Kenyatta International Conference Centre, March 8th, 11am, free, 0736 830 639, info@spicetalks.com. We bring you ideas from the backyard of society through our annual conference and other activities, including SpiceTalks Cafe, blog platforms and other conversations. First Ever Movie Expo | #Mx2016: Sarit Centre, March 19th, 10am, free, info@moviejabber.co.ke, 0726 821899. The event will offer those in attendance a thrilling and engaging look at this year’s mammoth releases such as Batman v Superman: Dawn Of Justice, Captain America: Civil War, X-Men: Apocalypse, Warcraft, Suicide Squad and many more! Sarabi Movie Nights: Sarabi Pool And Supper Club, Sunday, free, 7pm - 12am, 020 4208000, 0703 028000, connect@nairobi. sankara.com. Sankara Nairobi presents Sarabi Movie Nights every Sunday evening. Village Market’s Movie Night: The Village Market, Sundays, free, 7pm - 12am, 020 7122488, pr@villagemarket-kenya.com. VM welcomes you to our food-court cinema every Sunday night.
Dance
Salsa Fiesta: Caramel Restaurant & Lounge, March 5th, 7pm, Ksh 1000, 0723 325680, thedancefactory@gmail.com. There will be a salsa class will be from 7pm-8pm, for both beginner and intermediate dancers. Playing with Music: A Collage of Dance Styles with Musical Expressions: GEMS Cambridge International School, March 11th, 7pm - 8pm, Ksh 500, 0705 725 369, info@dancecentre.co.ke. This incredible performance will feature new dance styles never seen on the DCK along with familiar styles to different music. Afro-Dance Workshops: Kenya Cultural Centre, Thursdays, 6pm 7pm, Ksh 1,000, afrodancekenya@gmail.com. Come learn African and Afro-diasporic movement and rhythms. Kudunda - Dance Fitness Classes: Shani Active Gym & Studios, ABC Place, Friday & Saturday, 7pm - 4pm, Ksh1,000, 0721 612817. If you like to dance, then move into fitness with Kudunda. African Dance Classes: Private Property, every Wednesday, 6pm - 7pm, Ksh1000, afrodancekenya@gmail.com. African Dance Classes: Come learn movement & rhythms from Ghana, Brazil, Haiti and more! Hip Hop Dance Classes: ABC Place, every Wednesday, 7pm, Ksh800, clinelliott@gmail.com. Come learn the latest moves from your favorite music videos from an instructor who used to dance with a professional hip hop dance crew in Los Angeles and Chicago. Viva Espana Salsa Night: Artcaffe Restaurant - The Oval, every Friday, 9pm, free, 0717 193895. Artcaffe Oval invites you to enjoy an evening of Spanish music, cocktails and dancing. Zumba with Magic Mike:The Oshwal Sports Complex, every Wednesday & Friday, 10am, Ksh600, 0732 339858, 0721 339858, magicmikesalsa@gmail.com. Join Magic Mike for the most exhilarating workout of your life! Capoeira Angola Classes: Y.M.C.A Kenya - Central Branch, every Monday & Wednesday, 7pm - 9pm, Ksh500, 0710 551721, salimrollins@gmail.com. A martial art, dance and a cultural weapon. It’s a beautiful game played to the rhythm of percussion instruments and call response songs and a philosophy.
Fundraisers Rhino Charge Fundraiser: Braeburn’s Car 49: Braeburn Schools Gitanga Road, March 20th, 7am, Ksh20000, 0715 157142, Chrischilds88@gmail.com. Please help the team raise money for our environment and wildlife by supporting the Astro Hockey Tournament on Sunday 20 March.
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Festivals/ Craft Fairs Tie & Dye Festival: 11th Koroga Festival: Nairobi Arboretum, March 13th, 12pm, Ksh1500, koroga@capitalfm.co.ke. It’s official, Le Grand Mopao Koffi Olomide will be live in Nairobi for the 11th edition of the Koroga Festival. Sawa Sawa Festival 2016: Sarakasi Trust, March 16th, 10am - 12am, free, 020 2694026, info@sarakasi.co.ke. We are really looking forward to this year’s Sawa sawa festival at the Sarakasi Dome from the 16th to 19th of March. Yaya Centre Maasai Market: Yaya Centre, Every Sunday, 10am 6pm, free, 020 2713360, 020 2713361. The place to get beautiful sculptures, shoes, jewellery, clothes and a huge selection of other Kenyan crafts. Friday Maasai Market: The Village Market, Fridays, 10am - 6pm, free, 020 7122488. With 350 art and craft vendors in East Africa’s largest and longest running Maasai Market. Thursday Maasai Market: Garden City Mall, Thursdays, 10am, free, 0731 445244. Join us at the Garden City Mall for the most authentic East African Maasai Market each Thursday. The Junction Musical Maasai Market: The Junction Mall, Thursdays, 10am, free, 020 3872881. For a wonderful selection of arts and crafts, wooden carvings and beadwork, you can’t go wrong at the Junction Musical Masai Market only at The Junction Roof Top Parking. High Court Grounds Maasai Market: High Court Grounds, Saturdays, 10am, free, 020 2713360, 020 2713361. A vibrant place to get beautiful sculptures, shoes, jewellery, clothes and a huge selection of other Kenyan crafts. Nairobi African Market: Lavington Mall, Sundays, 9am - 6pm, free, 0706 578609, info@nairobiafricanmarket.com. An open market selling Kenyan products at affordable prices, every Sunday at Lavington Mall.
Music March Fest Kenya (B.Y.O.B): Nairobi Arboretum, March 5th, 2pm - 12am, advance: Ksh 1000, at the gate: Ksh 1500, VIP: Ksh 2000, 0724 542452. March Fest provides the backdrop for the music industry’s hottest upcoming Djs, emerging talent and local favorites to create unforgettable live music experiences in a world-class festival setting. Thursday Nite Live Featuring Kato Change: Choices Pub and Restaurant, March 10th, free, 8pm, arjibril@gmail.com. Kato Change is one of the premiere guitarists in Kenya and a champion of global cultural exchange. A charismatic performer with inimitable improv chops, Kato Change flirts with virtuosity. Thursday Nite Live Featuring Cece Sagini: Choices Pub and Restaurant, March 17th, 8pm, free, arjibril@gmail.com. Cecilia Sagini better known as Cece Sagini is a singer/ songwriter. She first appeared in the music scenes in 2012 featuring in Jimmy Gait’s popular local gospel track ‘Appointment’ which held first place on local TV stations as well as scooped song of the year in the 2013 Groove awards. Thursday Nite Live Featuring Warriors from the East Band: Choices Pub and Restaurant, March 24th, 8pm, free, arjibril@ gmail.com. Direct from Arusha Warriors from the East Band, Winners of Tanzanian Kilimajaro Music awards 2012,2013 and 2015 best reggae band of the year are an Afro Fusion band based in Arusha Thursday Nite Live Featuring Daniel Onyango & Afrika Jambo Beats: Choices Pub and Restaurant, March 31st, 8pm, free, arjibril@gmail.com. Established in 2010, Afrika Jambo beats is a 6 member band started by Daniel Onyango.
February 2016 I KENYA BUZZ Monthly Heritage Nights: San Valencia Restaurant - Nairobi Museum, Fridays, 6pm, free, 020 3874621. The Valencia museum presents heritage nights every Friday. Live Band Music: The Ark: Garden City Mall, Wednesday, free, 6pm, 0722815508, thearkmusicband@gmail.com. Enjoy the unique ambiance, listening to some good music as you look out over the central park. Saxobeat & Mojitos: Caramel Restaurant & Lounge, every Thursday, 8pm, Ksh500, free, 0716 663463. Easy like a mojito live jazz band. Sugar and spice, mojito specials.
Bottoms Up Party: Tortilas I.Q, Saturdays, 7pm, 0724 852314. Bottoms Up Party every Saturday night by Bugika entertainment. Bugika Saturdays: Persia Resto Pub-Sheesha Lounge, Saturdays, 9pm, 0724 852314. Bugika entertainment presents Bugika Saturdays. Music by DjRillance every Saturday. Party Night Saturday: Persia Resto Pub-Sheesha Lounge, Saturdays, 7pm, 0787 788888. Party with Bugika Entertainment this Saturday may 30th at Persia Lounge, TRM from 9pm till late. On the decks will be DjRillance. Get ready to boogie all night long. Saturday Nights Live: Sheba Lounge (City Mall), Saturdays, 4pm, shebaloungemombasa@gmail.com. Every Saturday join us for the Saturday Nights Live with the hottest in house deejays in Mombasa VjMaps and DjMess at Sheba Lounge Mombasa.
Nightlife Industry Nite Presents: 2nd Anniversary: Ebony Lounge, March 3rd, 6pm, Ksh 1000, 0721906875 March event theme will be celebrating the lives and music from K-Rupt and E-Sir – legendary artistes who are always remembered as Kenya’s pioneers of urban pop music. Party In The Wild 2016: Storms Resort & Campsite, March 25th, 12pm - 6pm, Ksh1500, 0713 452269, info@greenlantern.co.ke. For PITW 2016, our only focus will be to give you an experience like never before. You just have to be there to believe it. Kroak-Ville: Sheebeen The Bar, until March 24th, 7pm, 0202713412. Tonight we croak, sing and have loads of fun.
Bobs Karaoke Nite: Bobs Bar, Mondays, 9pm, free, 0787 914448. Bobs bar presents Karaoke nite on each and every Monday. Karaoke Monday: Club Zodiak, Mondays, 6pm, free, 0721 000111. Join us for Karaoke Monday with host Kendi this and every Monday only at Club Zodiak. Karaoke Mondays: Tribeka, Mondays, 7pm, free, 0724 294683. Come sing your lungs out in a nice environment this and every Monday.
3-4-2: Level 8-Ciroc Bar, daily, 4pm - 7pm, 0722 292700. Best Western invites you to a happy hour like no other. Buy 2 and get 1 drink for free. 7 days a week. Disco Every Night: Forty Thieves Beach Bar & Bistro, daily, 8pm, 0712 294873. Disco every night. Shooters Bar on Friday and Saturday nights. Quiz Night - Colobus: Forty Thieves Beach Bar & Bistro, every 1st Tuesday of the month, 8pm, 0712 294873, 40s@alibarbours.co. Get a few friends together and join in the fun every 1st Tuesday of the Month. Xclusive Fridays: Gallileo Lounge, Fridays, 9am, free, 0710 679869, mmuzondo30@gmail.com. Each and every Friday with Kiss TV’s DJ Xclusive. Dangers Crew with Bulleit Bourbon: Tamambo Village Market, Fridays, 8pm, free 0722 385089. Kick start your weekend in style at #Tamambo, Village market in conjunction with Bulleit Bourbon México. Overtime Fridays: Sheebeen The Bar, Fridays, free, 6pm, 020 2713413, info@sheebeen.co.ke. Ladies and Gents there’s a new Friday night plan. Away with the nightmare that is every Friday evening traffic. One Man Guitar By Man Ndung’u: Club Lambada International Mombasa, Fridays & Saturdays, 6pm, free. Avanti Happy Hour: Avanti Restaurant, Fridays, 5pm - 8pm, 0717 669263. Add some flavour to your Fridays with 4 beers or 2 doubles and 1 plate chicken wings.
Photography “Women in Kenyan Culture” Photography Exhibition: Michael Joseph Centre, until March 9th, 8am - 4pm, Free, wannyangerer@ hotmail.com. Cultural stopovers Kenya Wanny Angerer in Moving Cultures initiative presents an exhibition by Ng’ash Sage.
Travel
Madaraka Day Safari: Nairobi City Heritage Walking Tour: Pointzero Coffee, January 27th - March 7th, 9am - 12am, Ksh 1000, 0716 104812, wannyangerer@hotmail.com. Cultural stopovers and Abkleopard tours invites you: Nairobi city heritage walking tours. Easter Overlander: Kakamega Forest National Reserve, March 25th, 7am - 12am, Ksh26500, 0733 884854, info@beyondwilderness.com. Jump aboard and experience trekking through one of Kenya’s rarest and oldest indigenous forests, with integration of cultures along the way and hikes up the towering escarpment Tigoni Tea and Cheese Cycle: Baiskeli Adventures, March 12th, 7am, price to be announced, 0717 681649, 0738 681649, ask@ baiskeliadventures.com. From crisscrossing the tea farm trails to sampling cheese at the Brown’s Cheese Farm, you are in for a true treat!
Nature
Mash Up Fridays: Club Fahrenheit, Fridays, 6pm, 0722 487242. Club Fahrenheit with DjDenz from 6pm till late. Drazen& Friends: Budhaa Bar & Lounge, Fridays, 7pm, 0736 604121. Remember No cover charge for this night, the dress code is smart casual. Sundowners: dusitD2 Nairobi, Fridays to Sundays, 7pm, 020 4233000, info.nairobi@dusit.com. Feel welcomed every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening and try out our heavenly cocktails, signature shisha, great selection of champagnes and the most delicious bites served around our red pool. Disco Diva Night: The Tree House, Saturday, free, 10pm. Ain’t no mountain high enough! Our girls just want to have fun and Tree House is ready to bring you a blast from the past.
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Wednesday Morning Birdwalks: Nairobi National Museum, Wednesdays, 8am, Ksh200, 0739 200216, 020 3535768, 0771 343138, 0750 149200, 0751 624312, office@ naturekenya.org, http://www.naturekenya.org/. Join Fleur and the rest of the team for yet another fun filled informative bird walk. Sunday Birdwatch: Nairobi National Museum, Sundays, 9am, 0739 200216, 020 3535768, 0771 343138, office@naturekenya. org. Organized by Nature Kenya, Sunday Birdwatch meets the third Sunday of each month at at the National Museum, Nairobi, near Fisheries Dept.
BOTTLES NIGHT 25% Off on Jameson & Jameson Select Reserveby the bottle 15% Off on all spirits by the bottle (Incl. of mixers)
This sunday, do something daringly different. More than just great value, Sunday brunch at dusitD2 nairobi is a feast for the senses. There’s a carving station, a pasta station, an egg station, a desert station, a wok station and a chocolate fountain. As well as a live jazz quintet to keep you entertained. You will even receive a free pool pass to the Rouge Deck* included in the price. Adults: KSHS. 4,000, Children below 12 yrs KSHS. 2,000. Served every Sunday from 12.30 – 4.30pm.
Tel: +254 20 4233000 | Email: info.nairobi@dusit.com | Web: dusit.com/dusitd2/nairobi * Valid same day only
Food & Wine Wine Tasting with Marie Pierre and Jacaranda Hotels: Jacaranda Hotel, March 5th, 7pm, Ksh2500, 0711 089000. Taste amazing wines perfectly paired with canapés and cheese. Lavington Beer Festival: The Elephant, March 5th, 12pm, Ksh1000, 0722 523457. Come and Let’s get Pissed. Nyama Choma Extravaganza - Nairobi Edition: Impala Rugby Grounds, March 5th, 12pm - 12am, Ksh 500, 0720572938, choma254@mamadukaventures.com. A regional event happening in Kigali (Rwanda), Kinshasa (Congo) and now Nairobi (Kenya). The DStv Chill N Grill 4th Edition: Wanderjoy Gardens, March 6th, 11am, free, africankaya@gmail.com. The 4th edition will be bigger and better. Calling All Meat Eaters: The Carnivore Restaurant, daily, 12pm, 0733 611608, 0722 204647, reservations.carnivore@tamarind. co.ke. Enjoy Carnivore’s legendary Nyama Choma “Beast of a Feast” and get either a dawa, house wine or fruit mocktail on the house every day. Steak Friday: Sarova Panafric Hotel, Fridays, 12pm, 0709 111000, panafric@sarovahotels.com. Whether you like it well done, medium rare or devilishly rare...come enjoy the best steaks in town with the finest wine selection every Friday at the Flame Tree Restaurant. All You Can Eat Choma Fest: Tamarind Dhow, Every Friday, 12pm, Ksh2950, 0722 205160. All You Can Eat Choma Fest at the Tamarind Dhow. Click through to view the menu. Pizza and Peroni Saturdays: Villa Rosa Kempinski, Saturdays, 6pm - 10pm, Ksh1600, 020 3603000, reservations.nairobi@kempinski. com. Get this; it’s not a one pizza, two pizza go home kind of thing. This is an all you can eat pizza affair. Sunday Dive and Dine:SarovaWhitesands Beach Resort & Spa, Sundays, 7am, Ksh1250, 0719 022000, donald.shipenzi@ sarovahotels.com. Enjoy authentic Swahili breakfast and BBQ lunch every Sunday at Pavilions Restaurant. Bend & Brunch: Tribe Hotel, Sundays, 10am, Ksh1,500, 020 7200601. Join us for Bend & Brunch every Sunday at Tribe.
Tribe’s Famous Brunch: Tribe Hotel, Sundays, 11am - 3pm, Ksh2,000, 020 7200601, jiko@tribehotel-kenya.com. Tribe’s Famous Brunch Just Got Even Sweeter! The Sunday Crab Fest: Tamarind Mombasa, Every Sunday, 12pm, 0719 346349, 0733 603065. The Tamarind Group brings to you a feast like no other, the Crab lunch special. Bring Your Own Wine Tuesdays: Brew Bistro and Lounge, Tuesdays, 5pm, Ksh1000, 0731 006068, 0719 648138. Introducing “Bring Your Own Wine” Tuesdays a partnership between Brew Bistro and Lounge and The Wine Shop. Africa Cuisine Themed Night: Eka Hotel, Wednesdays, 7am, Ksh 2,800, 0732 105000, 0719 045000, reservations@ekahotel.com. Savor the finest African cuisine every Wednesday, at Eka Hotel’s Galaxy restaurant, the only one. Fiery Thursday: Best Western Premier Nairobi, Every Thursday, 6pm, 0732 292700, 0722 292700, info@bestwestern.co.ke. Come and tease your senses every Thursday with our steak of the day!
Yoga, Meditation & Fitness Hatha Yoga Classes- Weekday Yoga: Event Haven Ltd, Weekdays, 9am - 10am, Weekends, 3pm - 4pm, Ksh 700, 0792 649994, ngethe@event-haven.com. Be alive. Be strong. Be relaxed. Tyre & Sledgehammer Bootcamp: Wellness Solutions, every Saturday, 9am - 12am, Ksh1000, 0713 462963. Tyre & Sledgehammer Bootcamp at Sigiria Fitness Experience this and every Saturday. Yoga Retreat: Watamu Tree House, Your Home for Wellness, February 20th- 28th, 10am, 0712 810055, www.treehouse.co.ke. Yoga, white-sand beach, health, adventure, moon, delicious healing food, massage, stars, sunset kayak, celebration, family fun, pool, sun and nature. Boot Camp Training: The Grassy Knoll Bar & Restaurant, Saturdays, 9am - 11am, Ksh700, 0722 860975. Boot camp Saturday is an outdoor workout program for everyone who doesn’t enjoy working out in a gym set up.
Acro Yoga Workshop: Acacia Studios, monthly, 12pm - 2pm, Ksh 1,600, 0721 111141, 0735 111141, info@acacia-studios.com. On the first Sunday of every month, we will hold an Acro Yoga Workshop. Power Yoga and Fitness Boot Camps: Event Haven Ltd, Weekly, 5pm - 6pm, Ksh 500, 0723 650803, ngethe@event-haven.com. Weekly sessions in Karen for all who are interested. Yoga Wednesdays: Creatives Garage, Wednesdays, 6pm - 7pm, Ksh 500, 0708 752575, awesome@creativesgarage.org, https:// creativesgarage.wordpress.com/. Your body and mind complex can be totally tensed, but after doing yoga, something magical happens.
KENYABUZZ: Is it a single cup of coffee that wins you the competition? MARTIN: No. You do three drinks. An espresso, a cappuccino and one drink of your own creation that has espresso in it. This is the drink that sets you apart. KENYABUZZ: What was yours? MARTIN: I had been working with one since 2014, just tasting it out and improving the way I serve it. I called it Goodnight Kenya.
An Interview With Africa’s Best Barista, Martin Shabaya Interview by Timothy Mworia
The name may not ring a bell but if you’ve recently been served a delectable blend of coffee in any Artcaffe outlet in Nairobi, then Martin Shabaya has probably had a hand in its magic. He has been a barista there for five years and is now the Group Head Barista. He is also the reigning two-time Kenya National Barista Champion and just this February crowned the 2016 Africa Barista Challenge Champion in Tanzania. Martin graciously agreed to be interviewed by KenyaBuzz in what is his first interview since winning the coveted continental title. KENYABUZZ: What is a barista? MARTIN: An Italian term to define a person who operates an espresso machine and serves coffee. KENYABUZZ: No one ever says as a kid, “I want to grow up to be a barista”. How did you find yourself in this field? MARTIN: I was looking for something to do right after high school. I happened into Artcaffe with nothing precise I wanted to do. And the first position I was granted was a barista. KENYABUZZ: Straight out of high school? You must be young. MARTIN: *Laughs* I suppose. I’m 25. KENYABUZZ: That’s impressive for a man with your achievements. MARTIN: Thank you. KENYABUZZ: Kenya is known as a coffee producing country, but not so much for its coffee drinking culture. How would you explain this disparity? MARTIN: The culture is something that I think is really growing. And you can bear witness from the many coffee shops coming up all over town. KENYABUZZ: Yes, but going out for your coffee is one thing and brewing it at home is another. Do you see coffee upending tea as the beverage of choice in Kenyan homes? MARTIN: Home brewing isn’t popular. Kenyans prefer coffee shops.
KENYABUZZ: In your 5 years of working in this industry, are there any advances you’ve noted? MARTIN: Yes, really big… We’ve grown so many coffee outlets in such a short span of time, our barista levels have benefitted from improved allround training. KENYABUZZ: Tell us about the Africa Barista Challenge and how you ended up being part of it? MARTIN: It’s one of the occasions developed to enhance coffee culture and this one was the 14th edition. How I got to be involved is that Kenya was hosting The African Fine Coffee Conference & Exhibition last year and within it, is a barista championship. I managed to be part of it after winning the Kenya National Barista Championship 2015. After representing Kenya abroad I came back with a few things that I had polished which helped me grab the Kenyan championship again this year. KENYABUZZ: What specific things did you develop? MARTIN: Professionalism, how you explain and serve your coffee. How to use the machines and also knowing the taste profiles and appreciating the type of coffee that Kenya produces which is one of the best. KENYABUZZ: You’ve been runner up at a couple of Barista Championships. You’ve won even more. You are already the Head Barista of the Artcaffe Group [at 25]. It seems to me that you have nothing more to prove. Why do you then keep competing? MARTIN: No, no I don’t keep competing. Uhm, it’s something that I hadn’t thought of doing this year. Maybe in my mind, I would want to prove to the world that I learnt from the previous year. But I wasn’t so much into that because I have other barista’s that I am training for that… KENYABUZZ: So is it for the others to see that if you can achieve this, then they also can? MARTIN: Yeah, yeah, this is what I’m trying to do. I think this will be my last time competing and I want to at least lay a foundation for the rest. KENYABUZZ: How many trainees do you have? MARTIN: More than 120 in Nairobi. KENYABUZZ: What’s the mark of a trainee with potential? MARTIN: One of the things I look out for is the swiftness and efficiency; because speed is one of the things demanded of in the hospitality industry. I also look for discipline and creativity.
KENYABUZZ: A good choice of name (the irony is not lost) MARTIN: *Laughs* KENYABUZZ: What was your first reaction after being announced the winner? MARTIN: I couldn’t believe it. South Africa has always produced the best baristas in the past… KENYABUZZ: Are you the first Kenyan to win it in the African stage? MARTIN: Yes. KENYABUZZ: What next after this win? The World Championships, I presume. MARTIN: Yes. KENYABUZZ: What does a Head Barista do? MARTIN: A lot! Most importantly, taste the espresso every morning and make sure that the coffee is right before authorizing it. I also train baristas and track their discipline and grooming, note on where the mistakes and challenges are and what we can improve on. Basically I handle quality assurance for all Artcaffe Nairobi outlets. KENYABUZZ: How much does a Head Barista earn? MARTIN: *Laughing* It’s a viable career. KENYABUZZ: How often do you drink coffee? MARTIN: Every day! Mostly in the morning when tasting the espresso. KENYABUZZ: Is there showmanship in coffee making as there is in cocktail mixing? MARTIN: There is, but uh, not so shouted out like the bartenders. The way one operates the machines in itself is showmanship. KENYABUZZ: Does a barista get as many flirty admirers as a bartender does? MARTIN: *Laughs* Not so much, especially because at houses like Artcaffe the clients do not order directly from the bar. KENYABUZZ: Are there any movies, songs or quotes about coffee that you like? MARTIN: So many quotes but my favourite is: “Baristas have too much blood in their coffee streams.” KENYABUZZ: I don’t know the first thing about drinking coffee, and I’m not sure I care for it at all. How would you sell me into loving coffee? MARTIN: I would serve you a cup that demonstrates the flavours of origin of Kenyan coffee so you can understand why it’s renowned internationally and considered one of the best.
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March 2016 I KENYA BUZZ Monthly
Belgium Week Launch at Nairobi Serena Hotel
Expositions 18th Nairobi International Education Fair (NIEF): Sarit Centre, March 11th, 10am - 12am, free, 0732 213536, winnie@expressmediakenya. com. The event has been taking place every year in March to take advantage of the recently released Secondary School Examination Results thus we are able to obtain a large number of high school graduates. Maridady Auto Bazaar: Thika Road Mall, monthly, 10am - 6pm, free, 0700 876876, 0733 876876, marketing@trm.co.ke. The Bazaar brings together car dealers, individual sellers, enthusiasts and buyers on a common ground where sellers to showcase and sell their cars to interested buyers every second Sunday.
Sports The First Lady’s Half Marathon 2016: Nyayo National Stadium, March 6th, 8am, Ksh1500, 020 2715144, 020 2711261. Run with the First Lady to save lives of women and children. Naivasha Trail Run: Bilashaka Lodge, March 6th, 7am, Ksh3000, 0703 524823, extremewildernesschallenges@gmail.com. The Naivasha Trail Run is a 10km and 21km trail run around the hills and forests on the western edge of Lake Naivasha on Sunday 6th March 2016. 2016 Shompole Wildlife Marathon: Loisiijo Lodge Shompole, March 20th, 7am, Ksh3000, 0771 342145, info@ shompolewildlifemarathon.com. The 2016 Shompole Wildlife Marathon will return to you to the soul of the sport and leave you with a lifetime of memories. The Uphill Task 1 Murang’a County: Baiskeli Adventures, March 27th, 9am, Ksh3450, 0717 681649, 0738 681649. It is the first of a series of Uphill Tasks - road cycling adventures specifically aimed at conquering hills and testing cyclists’ attitude for altitude. The Divas Soccer Club Football Training: The Arena Futsal, Wednesdays & Thursdays, 7pm - 8pm, Ksh 2500, 0712 766839, 0716 140630. Are Mombasa ladies ready? Let us take fun to the next level.
The Kenya Polo Association Calendar: Various Venues, until December 14th, 12pm, 0725051012, vishsoms@live.com. The Kenya Polo Association Calendar is the one of the longest in the world with only a few months of quiet between February and April when the ponies get a well earned break and the players suffer withdrawal symptoms. Detour Golf Classes: Royal Golf Course, Saturdays, 10am, Ksh2500, 0706 540220, info@detour.co.ke. Learn how to play golf in a fun interactive environment. Junior Stars Football Training: The Arena Futsal, Weekends, 2pm 6pm, Ksh 4000, 0712 766839, 0716 140630. For all the young kids who love football, here is a chance to play an artificial turf.
Special Events
International Women Day Celebration: Michael Joseph Centre, March 8th, 8am, Ksh1500, 0716 104812, wannyangerer@hotmail.com. Women of the World Talk & Act Nairobi,Kenya , Wanny Angerer in Moving Cultures, Cultural stopovers Kenya present : International Women day Celebration “Women of the World Sufi Dance Meditation for World Peace” Inspirational Young Mothers Event: Nairobi School, March 12th, 12pm, free, amiraafrica@gmail.com. The event is for young mothers to get together to motivate and encourage one another by sharing experiences and advice. Open Qorner: March Edition: dusitD2 Nairobi, March 16th, 6pm, Ksh2000, 0714 434574, noel.auma@dusit.com. Come and join us at this unique gathering of ‘different minds’ to discuss a randomly and spontaneously selected topic that gets picked as the evening begins. Africa Rising: The Role of the Youth in Security, Governance & Development: United Nations Gigiri, March 21st, 9am - 12am, Ksh2000, info@afromun.org, 0713 231361. The Africa Model United Nations International Conference is a platform presented by Africa Model United Nations for young aspiring diplomats and university students globally to interact and debate on various issues.
Misfits’ Trivia Night: Forty Thieves Beach Bar & Bistro, 1st Tuesday of every month, 8pm, free, info@alibarbours.co. Join the Fun! Invite friends, spray the word, come many the more the merrier! Guided Tours at the UN Gigiri Complex: United Nations Gigiri, daily, 9am, Ksh200, 020 7622034, un.tours@unon.org. Have you taken a tour of the United Nations complex in Nairobi yet? Book one now! It’s educational, informative and also fun. Kenya Coffee Tour: Fairview Coffee Estate, daily, 2pm, Ksh1,000, 020 4442481 This beautiful coffee farm with nearly 100 acres under coffee. The farm is irrigated by the Riara River that is in turn fed by streams from the Kenyan Highlands. Social, Cocktails & Corporate Meetings: Best Western Premier Nairobi, daily, 10am, 0722 292700. Great deals on social, cocktails and corporate events on a daily basis. #CGchillout: Creatives Garage, Fridays, 5pm - 10pm, free, 0708 752575, fiona@creativesgarage.org. After a long week of creating and bringing your ideas to life, you certainly need a break from it all.
Coures / Lectures/ Workshops Certified Mobile Developer: iLabAfrica, until April 29th, 9am - 2pm, 0729876680, sanyanga@strathmore.edu. Cerified Mobile Developer involves learning from a set of qualified android lecturers from Strathmore University and build an application that you are proud to share with the world. Nairobi Home Tuition: Preswin Nairobi Home Tuition, until April 30th, 7am - 6pm, Ksh600 per hour, 0723419853, preswinhometuition@gmail.com. Our teachers are professional and experienced from the best universities in Kenya. We use one on one approach to address and work on students weak subjects. Spiritual Quest Evenings: Backpackers Nirvana, monthly, 7pm, Ksh200, 0738 130386. If you’re interested in deepening your spiritual interests, broadening in your practices, psychic development & intuition, and/or in meeting like-minded people, join our spiritual “workshop” every 2nd Thursday monthly.
Get your copy of the KENYA BUZZ MONTHLY at these fine establishments EMBASSIES/INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS: US Embassy British Council British High Commission Embassy of Italy SHOPPING MALLS/SUPERMARKETS Muthaiga Mobil Plaza Chandarana Nakumatt Village Market Nakumatt Prestige Nakumatt Junction Chandarana High Ridge Nakumatt Karen Crossroads Nakumatt Galleria ABC Chandarana Chandarana Lavington Green Chandarana Karen The Junction Mall Watamu Supermarket Village Market HOTELS & RESORTS Sankara Hotel Fairmont, The Norfolk Sarova Panafric Hotel Southern Sun Mayfair Kenya Comfort Hotel Isinya Resorts Limited – Nyali Crowne Plaza Hotel MOVIE THEATRES/THEATRES IMAX Theatres Planet media (Kisumu) Planet Media (Westgate)
Stanley Hotel Nairobi Serena Hotel Fairview Hotel Boma Hotel Best Western Premier Nairobi Nomad Suite(Kisii) Palacina Apartments Century Cinemax (Junction) Planet Media (Prestige)
RESTAURANTS/CAFES LE RUSTIQUE RESTAURANT Le Rustique Restaurant (Nanyuki) Bobo’s Restaurant The Grassy Knoll Pub & Restaurant Que Pasa Bar & Bistro Brew Bistro & Lounge Dormans Karen Potterhouse (Town) Euro Grill Restaurant-Enterprise Road, Industrial Area Subzone Restaurant Dari Restaurant Four Café / Bistro (Warwick Centre) Cafelatta (Town) Mughals Restaurant (Adams Arcade) K1 Klub House Kahama Hotel, Mombasa Rib I Grills (Prestige Plaza Food Court) SHOPS Spinners Web Bookstop Yaya Centre ARTS AND CULTURAL CENTRES National Museums of Kenya Alliance Francaise Tazama Art Gallery Sarakasi Dome
Monty’s Wines and Spirits Limited
Goethe-Institute GoDown Arts Centre Stedmak Gardens & Recreation Centre PAWA 254 (at Africa alliance building)
UNIVERSITIES/ SCHOOLS Kenya School of Law Strathmore University Braeburn School- Nairobi Pembroke House Aga Khan University Graduate School of Media and Communications MEDICAL CENTRES/OUTLETS Center for Tropical Nairobi Hospital Gertrudes G Hospital
Aga Khan University Hospital Yaya Center Upper Hill Medical Centre
OTHERS: Fly 540 airlines Safaricom House Wunderman Trichem Pharmacy Multichoice Kenya Capital Fm The Hub East Africa BlueSky, Diamond Plaza, 6th floor, Parklands Consumer Insight Africa Yoga Project (Diamond Plaza) Opanga Building - Kisumu Lily Pond Business Park –Nanyuki For the most comprehensive and up to date event and movie listings please visit our website: www.kenyabuzz.com Have an event or business you would like listed on Kenyabuzz? Send your information NOW to editor@kenyabuzz.com Want to advertise on Kenyabuzz? Contact info@kenyabuzz.com