pulser APRIL 2019
LIVE IT UP!
LIVE IT UP!
NOT FOR SALE
Rue Baby
Akothee’s daughter on her dad and life with mum
Adventure wish list
Hottest luxury beach places to visit this Easter
STEAL THAT LOOK
Vanessa mdee so trendy
15 Hacks for
your hair glow
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DIAMOND PLATNUMZ
Fame, fortune and women
pulser magazine APRIL 2019
CELEBRITIES • FASHION • BEAUTY • MACHINES • FOOD • REVIEWS
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DISCO HENN
ALL I NEED IS A LENS TO SEE THE WHOLE WORLD. NEVER STOP. NEVER SETTLE.
SCOVER MUTUA MATHEKA’S STORY: ENNESSY.COM/ALLINEED
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CON TEN TS CELEBRITIES, MUSIC AND SHOWBIZ 10. 12. 22-23. 30–31. 56-59.
The TV siren – Sarah Ndanu Night Nurse – Talia Oyando Rue Baby African Queen – Nandy Africa’s top musicians, 2019
FOOD, HEALTH and FITNESS 18. 20. 32. 38. 40.
It’s time to go vegetarian How to make pumpkin muffins Making gym cool Creamy cool Cold Stone Breakfast at CJ’s
FASHION and BEAUTY 6. 8. 42-43. 44-47. 48. 49.
Loose change That’s so trendy Steal Vanessa Mdee’s style Achie Atigo’s season pick As posh as Palace How to keep the glow
RIDES, TOYS AND ADVENTURE 14-15. 16. 34-35. 36-37.
Roll the Renault 2019 Upgrade the heck! Down Kenyan beaches On the streets of Barcelona
LIFE, TECH AND REVIEWS 50. 52. 54-56. 62.
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Movies and books Boots and Balls Let’s go gaming Horoscope
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THE TEAM
FROM THE DESK
Live it up
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER orlando lyomu DEPUTY EDITORIAL DIRECTOR KIPKoECH TanuI EDITOR STEVEnS muEndo REVISE EDITORS FErdInand mWonGEla JudITH mWoBoBIa SUB EDITOR WaIrImu nyInGI MANAGER, PRINT CREATIVE dan WEloBa CREATIVE DESIGNER JoSECK muToro PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR maXWEll aGWanda
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PHOTOGRAPHERS ElVIS oGIna DIGITAL nJamBI munGaI KEVIn oGuoKo CONTRIBUTORS Tony moCHama PErIS WamBuGu Tony nGarE roSE KWamBoKa Paul oWErE aHadI WamBuI BarBara nyamBura FrEd KaGonyE Tony aIro BonIFaCE mITHIKa aCHIE oTIGo marGarET nGEnya WInnIE maKEna TraCy GESarE MARKETING anGEla WanJoHI SETH EnoS COMMERCIAL KEVIn GICHEru STEVE oGola JaCquElInE maSaKu EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES Switch Board Tel: 3222111/0719012111 Ext 2243 +254 721 607 555 Email: Editor@pulsermagazine.coke COMMERCIAL ENQUIRIES Kevin Gicheru - +254 722 994 458 Steve ogola – +254 722881816
pulser LIVE IT UP!
LIVE IT UP!
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urning 18 feels cool. You can drive, drink and vote. You can take a date home and adventure around the world. Oh, and you have made the transition from high school. Nothing beats the freedom and hope that the 18th birthday promises. Suddenly, we get a life! As you hit 26, it is no longer the same again. When your friends call you for a drink, you can finally let it pass. You start being picky about what movies to go for, the kind of drink you take off the shelf, the car you adore and so on. Your hangouts have a financial perspective and your budgets are well calculated. And now, you are cautious about weight and health matters. Days are passing by and soon you will turn 30, then swiftly 40…. Growing old changes the entire perspective of life. It’s now or never. You must live it up. It does not matter how many modern entertainment and lifestyle magazines you have heaped on the shelf. Don’t be fooled that you can click on every lifestyle blog and travel the world at the click to experience all the dazzle on your dream life at your coffee table, but there is always a way. The Pulser - Live it Up - is weaved to turn bring all these realities close to you. You know exactly what you want out of it, it’s time we love on all the good things on the dessert table. Never before has music, celebrity lifestyle, innovative trends and technology, health and fitness and fashion been served under one bouquet in such a saucy, diverse and classy seamless flow. From Nairobi, Africa’s cultural and entertainment melting pot, never in the past has the
continent been exposed so positively as the beat of the music, the pinnacle of the theatre industry, the hallmark of the fashion industry, the home of the exotic beaches and game parks. The Pulser expresses our identity and brings out our urban trends and lifestyle with sincerity, precision and excitement. Royally, this is yours truly. And what a cruise! Allow us take charge of your world, giving you exclusive features on your favourite celebrities, ushering you into the hottest eateries and adventure destinations, spurring up your glamour and fashion world as we cruise out to the movies and about-town in the latest posh rides. We usher in the feel good life. This is especially for you! Live it up.
Stevens Muendo
Editor
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LOOSE CHANGE —PERIS WAMBUGU
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LET’S FLEA AND
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T F I R TH 1.
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Navy blue leather jacket @ Sh2,000 (Toi Market, Nairobi.) White tee @ Sh100 (Gikomba, Nairobi.) Black chino pants @ Sh500 (Gikomba, Nairobi.) Monochrome shoes @ Sh600 (Ngara, Nairobi.) Black belt @ Sh700 (Jumia, online.) Generic fashion anti-glare anti-UV sunglasses @ KSh 617 (Jumia, online.) Men’s baseball cap @ Sh250 (King’s Collection, Moi Avenue.) Men’s scarf @ Sh150 (Gikomba, Nairobi.) Collection, Moi Avenue.) 9. Happy socks @ Sh350 (Jumia, online.) 10. Men’s socks @ Sh300 (Gikomba, Nairobi) 11. Boxers @250 (OLX.)
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TRENDING
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ntertainment circles were buzzing with anticipation as the new Air Jordan 6 became the main focus during the 2019 Super Bowl halftime show. The new kicks were the footwear choice of Travis Scott and Maroon 5’s Adam Levine. And they got everyone talking. This was a follow up from last year’s halftime show at the Super Bowl LII that created a significant amount of buzz around Air Jordan 3 JTH worn by Justin Timberlake. Air Jordan 6 is one of the most classic silhouettes in the Jordan brand, much more for the fact that it is the first shoe that Michael Jordan won a championship in. And now going back to its 1991 basics, the Nike Air has come up with a full capsule collection of sportswear too. And guess what? As part of this new package is a retro-style nylon windbreaker, Gore-Tex jacket, fleece hoodies and basketball shorts. It’s game on, rolling the ball or just flossing to keep the cool. Want a pair to stunt in? It will set you back by approximately Sh20,000.
AIR JORDAN 6 REMIX 8
DEBUTS
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HOTINTOWN —AHADI WAMBUI
GORGEOUS SERAH NDANU TESHNA IS AN AWARD-WINNING ACTRESS, TV PRESENTER, MODEL AS WELL AS A BLOGGER.
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aving appeared on a number of TV commercials, Serah Ndanu got her first major breakthrough after starring as the lead actress in the Kalasha Film Awards winning film The Rugged Priest. Her illustrious acting has seen her land main rolesin numerous Kenyan plays and films among them Soila on Noose of Gold , Alice on The Rugged Priest as well as roles in Nairobi Law,Twisted and Sumu La Penzi . She hosted The Skin Therapy Show on KTN before switching to K24 where she does the Alfajiri show. Serah discovered her acting skills back in primary school where she got to play the lead role in a play set for drama festivals.Besides, her mother was a drama teacher and this helped push her into acting. Born on March 3, 1988, Serah studied for a Bachelor of Arts degree in Tourism Management and Sociology at the University of Nairobi.She has also been the director of Miss Intercontinental Kenya beauty pageant.
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Y S S SA AH R E S
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T H G E I N URS N K
HOTINTOWN —AHADI WAMBUI
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nown as the Night Nurse in s h ow b i z circles, this curvaceous beauty started off as a teen singing sensation. She was part of the girl group Talma that won an Emmy Award when she was barely in her teens. She went ahead to do musical collaborations with top Kenyan acts like Goldenchyl, the late E-Sir, CMB Prezzo, A.Y from Tanzania, and Rizla who ushered her into reggae music. After finding passion in music, Talia found her place in radio when she joined Easy FM before going on to become one of the most celebrated young radio presenters in Kenya. Music runs in her family DNA. She was born to renowned producer Maurice Oyando and as she admits, hers was a musical childhood. With her father’s studio right inside their house, it influenced her to take up music by forming the ‘Talma’ group alongside other teenagers Alma and Yma.
WHEN IT COMES TO REGGAE, THERE IS NO FEMALE NAME THAT COMES TO THE TOP OF THE MIND’S TURNTABLE LIKE THAT OF RADIO AND TV HOST TALIA OYANDO.
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, r e t s u n d i t k e d e a m o r e th motor moto
—pulseR wRiteR
Renault decided to give the maRket what it wanted; a fResheR look and a luxe feel without compRomising on stRength.
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he new 2019 Duster is smoother and flashier than the older model but with the components that worked great in previous model. The French manufacturer has retained the old chassis, suspension, steering and engines. The best selling older model was more utilitarian; rough, rugged and practical. The new model is meant to appeal to customers keener on luxury. The look is more modern with a much more updated classier interior. The objective is clear; this car is more than just a capable off-roadie, it is a premium city dweller too. At a first glance, you will spot the daytime running LED lights. The body shape remains SUV-like, but new lines and folds make the car more imposing. What else does it have? The Duster, like other similar brand names, has a 7” touchscreen infotainment system, navigation with Kenya maps, automatic air conditioning, soft touch piano key dashboard, keyless ‘access and go’ and many other user-friendly and class features. The new Duster remains a Duster, tough and capable. However, it is now a sexy city dweller who will surprise you with its fuel economy of up to 22km/litre.
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, g n
motor moto
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motor moto —tony ngare
symbol. This is best captured by a Yoruba proverb that says: Lack of money is lack of friends; if you have money at your disposal, every dog and goat will claim to be related to you. Every motorist worth his or her salt has what he/ she believes is the societal expectations when it comes to matters mobility. There are those of us who upon graduation from a motor cycle to a Probox would want it announced during the church announcements and at barazas. There are those us of who started with the Probox, AKA metallic donkey, but just a mere week later, after upgrading to a Toyota Fielder or Nissan Wing man oops Wingroad; we cannot even dare park our new acquisition next to one lest we are mistaken to be the owners of the metallic box. Many urbanites are struggling to impress and there is pressure to constantly upgrade your car regardless of one’s financial capability. In the process, we are messing up big time.
The rat race is not just on the tarmac, it’s also on socially. When your friends have upgraded and you are still driving the same old jalopy you had 15 years ago, even your wife begins giving you the side eye. Remember the drama we witnessed at the onset of mobile phones? One would walk into a restaurant or pub and get an assortment of mobile phones placed in a glass case or on a table as a show of status. Those days you would order two glasses of water; One for you and another for your phones. By the way, why were people putting phones in a glass case? Were we worried that the phones would gather dust and develop malfunctions? Or were our pockets in our trousers small such that they could not fit in the
phones? With time everyone could afford a phone and it ceased to be a status symbol. Even my eight- year-old daughter now doesn’t want the phone she has been using for the last two years. She wants a tablet. “I want one like yours,” she keeps pestering me. It now looks like the show off game has been escalated to buying mobile adult toys. According to a financial consultant that I spoke to, people who borrow money to upgrade their cars are most susceptible to defaulting. “Telling statics show that those who take a loan to buy their first car actually service the loan without much ado.” Upgrading to a new car is okay if you can comfortably afford it. But if you are going to sacrifice
A bigger car will attract higher costlyexpectations. Everywhere you go, people will be keen to fleece you.
the financial security of your family at the altar of pride, then you need to tighten some loose nuts in your head. If you want to upgrade your seven-year-old Toyota just to keep up with your boys who drive SUVs, then you are driving down a dark and lonely route. Your pals will not be there when your financiers start sending polite texts reminding you that your loan is due. And the longer you delay with loan repayment, the longer and more threatening the texts become. When you buy a bigger car, it comes with bigger demands. The fuel consumption is higher, the insurance premium is on the ‘20th floor’ and should a boda boda guy graze your paintwork or break the side mirrors, the repair costs leave a gaping hole in your wallet. Of course a bigger car will attract higher costly expectations. Everywhere you go, people will be keen to fleece you of your hard earned cash. The mechanics will size you up and and fancy they can weasel out a few extra bills from you. But who can blame them? They are hustling for their children just like you are. My point is, regardless of the mechanical diagnosis, a big car owner must pay big bucks at every visit at the garage.
A MAN, CAR & HIS EGO 16
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COURTESY
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car is no longer a convenient tool to move from one point to another; it is a statement
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car is no longer a convenient tool to move from one point to another; it is a statement symbol. This is best captured by a Yoruba proverb that says: Lack of money is lack of friends; if you have money at your disposal, every dog and goat will claim to be related to you. Every motorist worth his or her salt has what he/ she believes is the societal expectations when it comes to matters mobility. There are those of us who upon graduation from a motor cycle to a Probox would want it announced during the church announcements and at barazas. There are those us of who started with the Probox, AKA metallic donkey, but just a mere week later, after upgrading to a Toyota Fielder or Nissan Wing man oops Wingroad; we cannot even dare park our new acquisition next to one lest we are mistaken to be the owners of the metallic box. Many urbanites are struggling to impress and there is pressure to constantly upgrade your car regardless of one’s financial capability. In the
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FOOD ‑ROSE KWAMBOKA
BEEN CONTEMPLATING ON BECOMING A VEGETARIAN? THIS IS THE TIME TO MAKE THE TRANSITION
GO, GO VEGAN How to maintain a vegan diet
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vegan diet involves keeping off all animal and animal products. Vegans are not to be confused with vegetarians who keep off animal meat, but indulge in animal products. How then does one make the transition to becoming a vegan?
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Make small changes
Just like New Year resolutions, the more things you set out to change, the more likely you are to fail. The secret is to start slow, making one small change at a time. For instance, if you do take meat everyday, you could start by excluding it from your diet at least once a week and go from there. Or you could try changing one meal at a time; have a vegan breakfasts during your first month, change it up with a lunch the coming month and so on. This is a lifestyle change – it shouldn’t be rushed.
Do it right
Just because you are vegan, it doesn’t mean you are 100 per cent healthy. Be sure you don’t miss out on essential nutrients, which may tempt you to go back to animal and animal products. The easiest way to do this is to eat a wide variety of plant foods and have a meal plan.
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Remember why
Reminding yourself why you chose a vegan lifestyle, and reflecting on the benefits you’ve felt since ditching animal and animal products will keep you going. When things get too tough, reading or watching videos about veganism can help.
Do it quietly
Don’t tell people that you are turning vegan. Focus on yourself and be conscious of your surroundings, body, and food addictions first. It makes the transition easier and thus you will not be easily discouraged by what others might say.
Always have vegan food
Having vegan food in your fridge will prevent you from feeling the need for a quick non-vegan fix. This by extension means you have to re-think your shopping; many staples of a vegan diet like grains, beans, and nuts are cheap, and can be bought in bulk.
Be adventurous
Try out different vegan-based cuisines. The Swahili, Ethiopians, Mexicans and Indians have tantalising plant-based options. Alternatively, you can switch up that beloved recipe to give you different tastes and textures from what you are used to.
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hot of the month
COURTESY
—peris wambugu
Celly Rue
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APRIL 2019pulser PUlSERmagazine MAGAzINE APRIL2019
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hot of the month
Like the boss Lady herseLf, singer akothee’s daughter CeLLy rue brown, now stands out as the next big CommerCiaL modeL in town.
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irst glance at Celly and all you can see is a photocopy of her celebrity mother Akothee’s face. She is the Face of Nivea here as well as a high fashion model. She has so far received global recognition with the latest one being that which she was crowned as the model of the year late last year in Dallas, Texas. We meet up for the interview and she seems as eager as I am for it. She is dressed in a white hoodie and a black cap, and I quickly conclude that she is trying to disguise herself in the streets of town. “Good to see you again,” Celly Rue Brown greets me with a smile as she approaches my seat at the uptown Nairobi lounge she had proposed for our interview. “Sorry I look all tired. I’m actually from school,” she says, before joking about how her academic life at Strathmore University is taking its toll on her. Its been sevenmonths since we last met, our last interview having been on her new star status after being crowned The Nivea Face of East Africa. She is still that bubbling and easy to relate lass. She is full of energy. At this point of her life, she seems to have mapped it all. This is not your average 23-year-old Nairobi girl. “During my days off, when not having classes, I wake up at eight in the morning and slowly plan my day. When having classes though, I am an early bird. I wake up at six in the morning and by eight, I am already in school. My elder sister Vesha and I do ice cream on Tuesdays and catch a movie on Thursdays”, she says as the interview gets deeper. Then…sips her juice. “Being a student, a model and daughter to a celebrity mother is not such a simple task. I try to keep myself in school very low key and focus on what took me there. My friends are very supportive of me in school and I could not ask for more. She goes on: “I am the second born in a family of five. It is
just funny how most people think that my dad is European. He is actually Kenyan.He resides in Kisumu and I visit him often. My dad and I have a healthy relationship and it makes up for the time lost when I was a bit younger and did not spend as much time with him. My siblings and I may be from separate fathers but we are very close and I most especially consider my sister Vesha as my best friend.” Of all of Akothee’s daughters, Celly has taken after her mother. She is a star in the making and one of the most adored celebrity girls in Kenya currently. She has started off a beauty and fashion campaign christened Confidence to be You. She has been working with top notch designers like Aulgah Nato, Akinyi Odongo and Nigeria’s Ola, whom she describes as very exciting. “Just like my mother, I am an open book. I always feel the need to share about my day to day activities and my life in general. I am not dating anyone at the moment but if I won a romantic getaway for two, I would take my closest pal Rich-
ard with me. I am very prayerful and I do that on daily basis. In addition, I love my mom’s music, and I listen to it every day before heading to bed,” she reveals.
sense oF Fashion
That does not mean its all work and no play. Celly takes time out to party with her friends. She also follows on trends and everything youthful on social media. “I am a big fan of what is trending and happening around me so I’m mostly on social media to keep myself up to date. I obviously love Instagram and Twitter, just like everyone else, I think. I am a big fan of Nyashinski and Sean Andrew. Cardi B is also among my favourite celebs. I like her energy, sense of fashion and the fact that she is not afraid to speak out her mind on any given day.” Celly also loves going out to party. “I however do not take alcohol.I am the type of girl who goes to the club just to dance and sip on some soft drinks like soda or Delmonte. Did I also mention that I do not club in town? That has never happened. My friends however like clubbing in town so to avoid that, I prefer taking them out instead to places like Kiza or perhaps B Club. I spend at least ten thousand shillings a night on clubbing.”
Five on quick Fire Question: What is your dream country? Answer: Paris, France. I find it very romantic, no wonder they call it the City of Love. I also consider it as a fun country to be in. Q: If faced with an emergency and your mom is not present, who would you turn to? I would definitely give my aunt, Cebbie Koks Nyasego a call. I love and respect her a lot as well as appreciate her. Q: What is the most expensive thing in your closet? A: A designer handbag I got from my mother as a gift. I am yet to carry it though. (laughs). Q: Weirdest thing about you? A: I own a car but I prefer riding in an Uber. I have a driving licence but not sure whether I can honestly be behind the wheel for too long. Q: Who is your crush? A: You wrote about it…Sean Andrew.
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COVERSTORY
— PAUL OWERE
HE HAS BUILT A SHOWBIZ EMPIRE ACROSS EAST AFRICA, EMERGING AS THE STAR TO BEAT ON THE ENTERTAINMENT SCENE. BUT CONTROVERSY STALKS DIAMOND PLATNUMZ, NOW RIDING ON THE BUZZ OF DATING A KENYAN RADIO GIRL
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rom issuing a press release about wearing an anklet to giving notice that the Tanzanian Government should mark as a national holiday the day he marries his Kenyan girlfriend, Tanasha Donna, Diamond Platnumz has all eyes on him. The award-winning artiste and CEO of Wasafi Records recently took a hit after it came to light that part of the concept for the hit Tetema, in which he’s featured by Rayvanny, was taken from a scene from See You Again by American rapper, Tyler, The Creator. The beat was also linked to Olamide’s Motigbana. The song, which, in its first 17 hours set a new record by reaching over one million YouTube views raised alarm over a recurring trend by the celebrated Bongo Flava artiste of borrowing/duplicating concepts from existing projects. Just last year, the world-famed musician was called out for using a concept from an Indian movie by actor, Shakur Khan, for the song Baila. Diamond defended the video concept intimating the actor has been his role model, and as such he chose to get inspiration from his scenes – an argument that did not sit well with fans. Mwanza, released late last year, also featured a few scenes from a Kenyan Kisii song, Yabeive Bobe by Miggy Champ featuring Babu Gee. Miggy, pointed an accusing finger at the Wasifi president saying: “The dancing on top of cars, scenes by a water fountain and even the wardrobe, it’s all stolen from us. This all makes sense about the narrative that big stars are always stealing from upcoming artistes.” His hit, Time to Party has also been linked to Chris Brown’s New Flame.
AUSPICIOUS BEGINNING
Diamond’s rise from the alleys of Manzese to become a force in African music is probably one of the showbiz tales of this century. The story of his rise to stardom is perhaps one that has been told many times. His meteoric rise to greatness is like a fairy tale that could make an adaptation for a Hollywood movie. But there is more to the untold truths of this icon, a successful showbiz powerhouse whose life courts controversies. And what a humble beginning, that an ordinary Form Four leaver would dine and wine with some of the continent’s greats, discussing business and politics over coffee and music. Raised by a single mother in a one roomed house in Tandale, a slum area of high density Manzese suburb, after his absentee father Abdul Juma went took off, the musician owes everything to his mother’s bravery. The money he was making as a young hawker of second hand clothes could not afford him a studio
session at a time when studios were few in Dar es Salaam. In many of his early compositions such as Mbagala and Nitarejea, the poverty theme comes out strongly because it was an experience he knows well.
DIAMOND’S RISE
Having started off as a rapper, his breakthrough had to wait until sometime in early 2009 when he released his first single, Kamwambie, a ballad that confirmed his status as a crooner. Incidentally, it was this very hit that announced him on the grand scale as it won several awards: Song of the Year and Artiste of The Year alongside three other accolades at the Tanzania Kilimanjaro Music Awards. Diamond became the toast of Bongo Flava overnight. As part of the package that came with winning the Artiste of the Year award, he was offered a rare opportunity to work under the tutelage of Senegalese music icon Yussouf N’dour in Dakar. So many things were happening in his nascent career; in that same year he was nominated at the MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMAs) in Lagos where he performed with
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COURTESY
COVERSTORY
His taste for the fine things in life does not stop with mansions, German cars and fine clothing; he has an eye for beautiful women too
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coverstory
COURTESY
Kenyan group P-Unit at the awards gala. This was probably the moment that would propel the then 21-yearold into the limelight. What followed in a couple of years were a string of hits such as Nataka Kulewa, which was produced in Nairobi, Mawazo and his debut album, Lala Salama. His appeal musically was on the rise and then came the release of Number One in 2013 and its remix, which featured Nigerian heartthrob Davido. “This was Diamond’s first international collaboration, which announced his brand to the international market as the song became an instant hit in night clubs around Lagos and what followed is now history,” says Wasafi producer, Lizer Classic. The stakes had changed, and for the first time he held a solo concert themed Diamonds are Forever at the Mlimani City Hall where tickets were going for Sh2,500. This was the first time a Tanzanian artiste had charged such a fee for a concert, and yet, it was all sold-out.
Beautiful women
As they say “be careful what you wish for, you might just get it all”. And Diamond, has attracted attention for issues that carry a different musical tune. His taste for
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the fine things in life does not stop with mansions, German cars and fine clothing; he has an eye for beautiful women too. His list of conquests is long and diverse; it includes beauty queens, actresses, socialites, business women and even video queens. His insatiable desires soon earned him the tag of ‘Sukari ya warembo’. Although there are some of the beauties who went flew under the radar, others were too famous to miss coverage in tabloids. Wema Sepetu, former Miss Tanzania 2005 was probably the first in the line of Diamond’s famous flames. The relationship became fodder for the tabloids who tracked their movements day and night. They were inseparable,
until a secret affair with first runner-up of Miss Tanzania beauty pageant 2005, Jokate Mwegelo, hit the Internet. This was stab in the back for Wema, who was heartbroken when she found out her close friend had turned against her. This, however, was short lived and though none of the parties ever opened up about the breakups, close sources tell Pulser that Diamond and Wema were quite a mismatch. It was a relationship that was doomed right from the start. Jokate, who once dated the only Tanzanian to have played in the NBA, Hasheem Thabit, was later rumoured to have dated Ali Kiba, and is now the Kisarawe District commissioner in Coast Region. Diamond would soon get on another love boat with Television VJ Penny Mungilwa. She too was believed to have been one of Wema’s close friend. Just like in the case of Jokate, this too did not last. At this point it seemed like everything Diamond touched turned into trouble. He made an about-turn and got back with
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coverstory — paul owere
on Zari with video vixen Hamisa Mobeto. The truth was going to set him free, free from the gossip that had now reached deafening proportions and his 3.9 million Instagram followers were demanding answers. Diamond is also rumored to have dated Jacqueline Wolper, Aunty Ezekiel and even Big Brother Africa winner Dillish Matthews from Namibia. And this Diamond East Africa love story was to go full cycle. Towards the end of 2018, in came Kenyan radio presenter and model Tanasha Donna Oketch, his confessed heartthrob whom he is set to wed.
Business acumen
Wema. This rebound made news again and just like in the first case it proved to be quite turbulent, but even then the actress will go down in history as one of the women who withstood the test of time with Diamond. While everyone thought all had settled, this was to be the calm before the storm. Sometime in 2014, while from a working trip from South Africa, the crooner met Ugandan socialite and business woman Zari Hassan on a Dar es Salaam bound South African Airways flight. The two hit off straight away, though they initially claimed they were working on a project together, it emerged that the project was romantic in nature. Their appearance on the red carpet at the MTV Music Awards ceremony in Johannesburg cemented the rumours. By that time, Zari was already six months pregnant and three months later she gave birth to a baby girl whom they named Latifa. A year later, another baby was on the way and this time it was a boy. Then in 2017, another twist hit the Diamond love chain. Hamisa Mobeto, another former lover resurfaced. While recording the Salome video, the two reignited an old flame and the result was fruitful, Hamisa got pregnant. It became a cat and mouse game as the denials and counter denials took shape, but when it seemed like it was getting out of hand, Diamond admitted he had fathered Hamisa’s son. His philandering ways became one of the most talked about and trending issues on the social media when he openly admitted to cheating
Having risen from abject poverty, the singer has in 10 years amassed so much wealth to the extent that at one point CNN estimated his net worth at some KSh8 billion. This was long before he signed the mega record deal with Universal Records Africa where he was paid one million dollars as his signing on fee. Part of the proceeds went into buying a home in South Africa where Zari and his two children reside, adding to other properties that he already owns in Tanzania, which includes his Madale home. The record deal with Universal and the Belaire Rosé Champagne deal, which involves Maybach Music CEO Rick Ross is another mark of success. Most of his cash has come from live performances where he says he charges ridiculous amounts in the nine figures outside Africa. He is said to charge about $30,000 (Sh3 million) per show in East Africa. The other earnings that have made him one of the region’s billionaires under 30 are mainly from the endorsement deals, which he has signed with local companies and especially in the telecommunication industry. His earnings have made him one of the highest tax paying artistes in Tanzania, who pays hundreds of millions in income tax annually. Though he might not be the greatest talent to have graced the stage, to most of his peers he is a dream come true for he has set the bar high and inspired many upcoming artistes. His business acumen and sharp nose for profits has seen him come up with merchandise, a true mark of every successful artiste in today’s world of consumerism. His merchandise, which includes the Chibu Perfume and Diamond Karanga, has brought his name closer to his fans in a world where the means of music consumption have changed. The founder of Wasafi also boasts of signing star artistes such as Rayvanny, Harmonize, Lavalava, Mboso and Queen Darleen, ensuring he continues reaping from music for a long time to come. The growing empire now has a TV station (Wasafi TV) and a radio station (Wasafi FM), and though there has been a lot of controversy over the real owners, having his name on the stations makes him the first artiste in this region to own a TV station.
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coverstory
—pulser writer
chibu’s
girl COURTESY
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APRIL 2019 pulser magazine
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t is 2016. This scene takes place in Nairobi during the Nairobi fashion week. Film actor and TV hunk Nick Mutuma walks into the venue hand in hand with a new girl. His reported breakup with fashion girl Bridget Shighadi has been the hot showbiz sell in town. This appearance could be the lead to the reason why Nick and Bridget are no longer together. As they sit looking cozy as they follow the show, paparazzi cameras turn on them. Nick smiles. The girl too. In their discomfort, we approach them and ask Nick to introduce his new friend to us. “She is Tanasha Titi,” he smiles, looks back at her and goes mute. That is all he is willing to diverge. For five months, the rumour in town has been that Nick has been warming up to a new girl and at long last we have a lead. “Are the two of you dating,” we prode. “Ours is now a working relationship,” the girl whom we finally come to find out is called Tanasha Donna responds, a charming smile across her face. “She is the perfect definition of beauty with brains. She is a blessing, a wonderful lady with the style of an ideal woman,” Nick praises, and with that we have as he describes his new flame as an upcoming singer, model and TV girl. The affair never lasted. Nick soon went back to Bridget before flying out to the United States. The reunion was the biggest celebrity couple comeback in 2017. As 2018 set in, the two were man and wife. The February baby, their first child, is a girl. Meanwhile, Tanasha’s popularity seemed to have disappeared after the breakup. At some point, she was rumoured to have had a fling with Nigerian singer Wizkid. But that was just that. It wasn’t until late last year when the news broke, barely months after Tanasha had gotten a new radio job. That they had been spotted together with Diamond and that they were an item and were headed for marriage. The story became the showbiz hotcake in town. A week later, both confirmed theirs was a serious romantic affair and that they were set to wed on February 14 this year, that to seal a perfect lover’s day. But that never happened. As anxiety rose among their social media fans, Tanasha was quick to answer, claiming that they had called off the wedding due to
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her busy schedule at work and because her mother could not fly in in time. It has been a bit of a mystery who Tanasha is. Who is this mother she is talking about? Who is her father? Who are her people? Tanasha Donna? Donna! Pulser can now reveal that Tanasha’s real name is Beriberi Oketch, a 1995 baby who was born in Kenya to an Italian father. Her mother is called Diana Oketch. She has been living in Belgium where she once had a permanent residence. Sources have it that Tanasha has never lived with her real father. “When Tanasha returned to Kenya from Belgium, she used to live with a friend in Nyayo estate and it was around this time when she recorded the Nagharamia video with Alikiba as a video vixen. She never returned to Belgium again,” our source claims. A source from Belgium claims that Tanasha’s mother lives there. “Her mother lives here and whoever they are claiming was introduced by her to Diamond is not her real mother,” claims our source. To verify the facts, we invite Tanasha for an interview and she gladly obliged. Complete with a TV crew we set up at Clarence House Hotel, Nairobi, where Tanasha had promised to meet us. In another minute, she was unreachable. Besides, to her friends among them her colleague Barak Jacuzzi, Tanasha hardly picks calls when she has something stressing her. “She is not even picking my calls when she is stressed up,” Barak remarks as we make our follow up. “Tanasha is really a nice person. She works well with colleagues. We all respect her and also respect her privacy. There are those times you just can’t get her,” says Mwalimu Rachel, also a fellow radio host. Further efforts to get to know more about her personality from Nick Mutuma the ex-boyfriend were fruitless as he refused to give a comment. However, for a young, beautiful and ambitious girl who still remains the most talked about star girl, the story continues with Tanasha expected to have the last laugh…with a ring, a Diamond ring on it!
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Tanasha Donna, The raDio girl warming DiamonD PlaTnumz’s hearT has a mysTerious PasT anD a faTher of suPPoseD foreign naTionaliTy. Pulser Tries To DemysTify The woman giving The wasafi Ceo sleePless nighT
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hot in africa
— paul owere
EndowEd with a mElodious voicE and gorgEous looks, tanzania’s fast-rising singEr faustina mfinanga aka nandy has all EyEs on hEr as thE n
A
The
lways on the paparazzi radar, sweet Tanzanian female charmer Nandy is back on the news. Adorable for her melodious soothing lyrics and beauty, the African Queen is not only crossing the borders as one of the promising music jewels She is stirring the waves with a love talk – one, of an alleged stolen man, and another, of a lover, a secret affair she has kept East Africa’s guarded showbiz secret since she hinted she is taken about a month ago. Ahead of the new Coke Studio Africa 2019 edition launch, the Ninogeshe singer was rumoured to be having a fling with Nigeria’s Afrobeats heavy hitter, Skales with whom they recorded a love ballad. This was after she distanced herself from grapevine that she had stolen Wema Sepetu’s lover, the man who gifted her with about Sh200,000 during her recent birthday. And this she will not hear a
thing about. Emerging as one of Africa’s stars to watch, that after having carved herself a niche across East Africa, all eyes seems to be on this 26-year-old Bongo girl now breathing a new tune into the regional showbiz. Bongo Flava for so many years has been in short supply of female artistes. Those who make it barely survive long enough in the highly competitive local market, which has in the long run become a graveyard for the wannabe musicians. Three years ago, Nandy broke into the scene with a resolve to change the status quo. She had just finished as runner-up at the Tecno Take the Stage contest in Lagos where she was mentored by rapper Ambwene Yessaya aka AY. To her doubters she was just ‘one of those little girls’ trying to look for fame in music and not otherwise, and two years later she has become one of the most sought-after female artistes in Tanzania.
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Nandy has since self-proclaimed herself as the African Princess who has taken over the Bongo Flava music scene with hearty compositions that has got the whole region singing. She is not afraid to rock the established order after she recently claimed to be the best selling female artiste in Tanzania surpassing the likes of Vanessa Mdee and Lady Jaydee. “My numbers speak for themselves, and as you know numbers don’t lie and that makes me number one in Tanzania,” says the 26-year-old who is arguably the most-anticipated artiste in the just launched Coke Studio Africa 2019. Breaking into the Kenyan market with her Ninogeshe fame, Nandy has been able to create a stable following since she hooked up with gospel singer Willy Paul late last year to release Njiwa, a mega hit that has garnered over eight million views on YouTube. In fact, it was the rumour that she had a thing going on with Willy Paul after the song’s release that got everyone interested with her music before her return to Kenya in December for her first Kenyan concert, a successful show that has made her a household name in urban Kenya. However, the story of her meteoric rise cannot be complete without mentioning the input of Ruge Mutahaba the man who discovered her talent and took her under his wings at the Tanzania House of Talent (THT) in Dar es Salaam.
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hot in africa
TAken over The perch
Mutahaba has in the past nurtured several female artistes such as Lady Jaydee, Ruby, Ray C, Lina, Rachael who have gone on to be successful. While at THT, she met producer Ema the Boy who produced her debut single Nagusagusa, which became an instant hit receiving huge airplay on both radio and TV. While the lass has made remarkable milestones, things weren’t always on the rise. Last year, she found herself courting controversy when a sex tape with former lover, Bill Nas nearly broke the Internet. According to Nandy, the relationship with the rapper has long ended and there was nothing between them; they chose to blame thieves who stole Bill Nas’ phone as the source for the picture leakage. She apologised in the most touching ways, causing some to empathise with her, whereas there are those who said she is a slut. Hot on the heels of the scandal, Nandy released what has become one of the hottest songs on the Bongo Flava scene, Ninogeshe, which has become a club bangers with millions of views on YouTube.
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FITNESS
BARBARA NYAMBURA
FIT AND FAB C
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elebrities may tell you that they eat perfectly healthy and stay on a proper workout regime to stay in shape, but there are many that do some pretty drastic and sometimes scary things to stay in shape. They will tell you that they have good genes inherited from a grandmother in Maasai land; but don’t buy into it. Celebrities smoke, inject hormones, drink coffee, vinegar, manage on a liquid diet, wear crazy tight corsets, starve themselves, undertake cosmetic surgery, work out excessively and use laxative tea. Many celebrities are drinking this diet tea pumped full of laxatives. The latest trend among women is mixing laxative tea with the master cleanse diet.The pressure for a perfect body is even greater within the celebrity circles. Being in the public eye all the time demands that these personalities look their best at all times. Maintaining a fit, healthy body takes more than a quick and dramatic fix to look good. Fitness is not only external to the body but internal too. Our body is the machine which moves us from one point to another through life. If it fails early then so do we. Therefore we want to keep it
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as well-oiled and serviced as possible. I’m not talking about body building in the gym as that’s not strictly in the body’s best interest. We don’t all expect to be on the cover of fitness magazines so think about maintaining your body and health not only for the looks but for your own wellbeing. Fitness results are different and progress at varying rates for each individual. Everyone is different in lifestyle, body type, genetics, possible medical issues, and even age all playing a role in our ability to achieve results. Everyone should be serious about reaching fitness goals, eating right for a healthier life and not a temporary fix to weight gain. Walking, running, swimming, cycling, jogging, aerobic dancing or any of dozens of other activities can help your heart. They all cause you to feel warm, perspire and breathe heavily without being out of breath and without feeling any burning sensation in your muscles.Whether it is a structured exercise program or just part of your daily routine, all exercise add up to a healthier heart.Also, get outdoors for your fitness as much as possible as you’ll then be aiding your mental and spiritual health too as nature is a proven remedy to depression. We can become so focused on our body, we fail to enjoy the process of getting fit. It is important not to stress about your training program to a point it feels like a burden. Fitness is a progressive journey and goals are constantly being revised according to body changes. Fitness doesn’t have to be a case of “take your medicine.” There’s no reason you shouldn’t enjoy exercising. Find an activity you like. Maybe it’s not something that you do at the gym. All the better — that’s money saved! If your desire is to get in shape, physically, mentally and socially it’s recommended to avoid fad diets promising the body of your dreams in 3-weeks. Fitness in a bottle doesn’t exist. Fit and healthy people tend to be happy, confident and not consumed by body image. A more relaxed attitude allows them the ability to enjoy all stages of getting fit regardless of their body size.
The latest trend among women is mixing laxative tea with the master cleanse diet APRIL pulser magazine AUGUST 2019 2018PULSER PULSERMAGAZINE MAGAZINE 32 2019 MARCH
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u l r e d n a w
travel
—FRED KAGONYE
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ost people from across East Africa hardly enjoy the magical fauna and flora God has endowed the region with. However, the culture of adventure is slowly building momentum and from celebrities to the ordinary Pulsers, the excitement about safaris; be it a simple weekend camping outing or an adventure down to the Mara or the Coastal strip, is getting real. Away from common believe, safaris are not as expensive as many people perceive them to be. With good planning, you can afford a safari with as little as one burns inside a crowded city club in one noisy Friday night. A well-packaged safari in Kenya gives a rare chance for one to witness the great and rare wildlife, adorable landscape and amazing people that make up the heart of Africa’s great plains and memorable beaches. With many local adventure firms like Akothee Safaris, Turnup Travel and Bonfire Adventures, you can be able to get a well tailor-made pocket friendly safari to fit your needs. There are many season’s offers right now that will fill
your March and April with wanderlust. Besides, the booking online sites are endless. Most of the current offers are a three to five days to Coast – full packages – for as little as Sh13,000 and three days to Masai Mara for the same amount. Amazing bargains! Don’t wait for the rush holiday season to do your bookings. Best safaris are well fitting during the off season.
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OUT & ABOUT — TONY MOCHAMA
COURTESY
TRAVEL AND ADVENTURE IS SOMETHING WE ALL LOVE TO EXPLORE. BUT DAMN IT…THE WALLET! SHOCKINGLY, WITH GOOD PLANNING, YOU CAN CREATE AND FIT INTO A TRAVEL BUDGET THAT IS FRIENDLY TO YOUR WALLET LIKE TONY MOCHAMA DID WITH HIS FIVE DAYS IN BARCELONA FOR SH5,000, (50 EUROS) AT LEAST FOR THE SITE SEEING HERE IS HIS INSPIRING STORY
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IN BARCELONA FOR SH5,000
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Since our Cine-Europa Expo was got to Barcelona late on a Wednesday our Cine-Europa got toinBarcelona late mostly on a in theSince Wednesday afternoon, I purposedExpo was Sunday evening July. Pablo Picasso Museum mostly in the afternoon, evening in July. Pablo Picasso Museum to be up early, have breakfast – I purposed (12 Euros, We wereSunday there, alongSh1, 440) to be up early, have breakfast – We were there, along(12 Euros, Sh1, 440) then sight-see the best of Barceloside IMAX Century CEO then sight-see the best of Barceloside IMAX Century CEO na, daily. Alex Serkov, and business If you have been watching na, daily. Alex Serkov, and business If you have been watching The most famous tourist site in partner Natalia Baydan of Planet series ‘Genius’ The most famous tourist sitethe in History partner Natalia Baydan of Planet the History series ‘Genius’ Barcelona,Barcelona, I was toldI that Sunday, Kino cinema in Kiev, Ukraine, to (starring(starring AntonioAntonio Banderass) was told that Sunday, Kino cinema in Kiev, Ukraine, to Banderass) is the great unfinished cathedral attend the attend 27th Cine-Europe about Pablo Picasso, the is the great unfinished cathedral the 27th Cine-Europe about Pablo Picasso, the called La Sagrada Familia (The Exposition,Exposition, in Spain. in Spain. painter of the 20th called La Sagrada Familia (The greatestgreatest painter of the 20th Sacred Family) Taking one Taking of the one of the Sacredthat Family) that century,century, you will you not will missnot the miss the receives three million airport taxis into the receives three million airport taxis into the chance to visit here. chance to visit here. visitors a year. heart of theheart city will visitors a year. of the city will Picasso Picasso was born in Malaga was born in Malaga But sinceBut I’d since I’d set a visitorset back a visitor back in the south ofsouth Spain,ofbut his but his in the Spain, already been to anywhere anywhere already been to father, an art teacher, moved moved father, an art teacher, the Cathedral between 30between to the Cathedral 30 to the family Barcelona in 1895,in 1895, thetofamily to Barcelona of Santiago de 50 Euros (Sh3 of Santiago de the 50 Euros (Sh3 when future when thegenius futurewas genius was Thursday nightnight Thursday Compostella, Compostella, 600 to Sh6600 to Sh6 just fourteen, and he just fourteen, and he lived in lived in Font Magica fountain Font Magica fountain (a city a 000). (a city over a over 000). Barcelona Barcelona till 1904.till 1904. thousandthousand Following But for the But for the Following the suicide the suicide of his of his On summer nights in kilometers kilometers brave, and brave, and bestCarlos friendCasagemas Carlos Casagemas On summer nights in best friend Barcelona, the Espanya, even not brave Barcelona, over atover the at Espanya, west of west of (by his own even not brave (by his own gun hand) in 1901, a gun hand) in 1901, a there is a magical fountain Barcelona) two all, there are there is a magical fountain Barcelona) two at all, thereat are depressed began the depressed PicassoPicasso began the – a splendid spray of the aero-buses show –show a splendid spray of years agoyears – andago – and the aero-buses first of his great painting very firstvery of his great painting water, and music and lights, where Christ’s (air buses) that are water, music lights, and if and if where Christ’s (air buses) that are cycles called ‘The Blue Period,’ cycles called ‘The Blue Period,’ you’re fortunate, even fireApostle Saint James perfectly you’re fortunate, even firethatinvolved mostly involved Apostle Saint James perfectly safe, and safe, and that mostly paintingpainting works to gothe with the watertake into the city works to go with waterof people in despair is interredis–interred well, – well, portraitsportraits take one into theone city of people in despair nothing beats a dead a ‘mere’ five or so works..works.. using acrid blue acrylic colours nothing beats a dead center for acenter ‘mere’for five or so using acrid blue acrylic colours disciple of Jesus, I felt La Sagrada Euros (Sh600). street tarts, beggars, the disciple of Jesus, I felt La Sagrada Euros (Sh600). tarts, beggars, the Familia would be an anti-climax.- - streetbereaved From there, you can sort and drunks on the Familia would be an anti-climax. From there, you can sort and drunks on the Here are the other Big Five ofbereavedcity yourself either with a cheaper cab, streets. Here are the other Big Five of yourself either with a cheaper cab, city streets.About 4 000 early sketches Barcelona. or go figure the city metro system. Barcelona. or go figure the city metro system. Aboutand 4 000 early sketches Pablo canvases from this and Pablo canvases from this period are exhibited here, but here, but notexhibited the actual complete Tuesday evening period are not the actual complete Tuesday evening paintings. One of the blue – Las Ramblas paintings. One paintings, of the blue‘Suzanne period – Las Ramblas period paintings, ‘Suzanne Bloch,’ was stolen at the end of After our Cine-Europe Expo, being Bloch,’ was stolen at the endinofSao 2007, and recovered After our Cine-Europe being Forum held at the fine Expo, AC Barcelona recovered Sao 2008 Paolo on 8th in January, held at the fine it ACwas Barcelona Forum the2007, hotel, time to explore city and Paolo on(the 8th day January, 2008president Ghanaian through a long stroll. hotel, it was time to explore the city Friday afternoon Kuffuor visited Kibaki in (the dayJohn Ghanaian president And the best long walk in Barcelothrough a long stroll. Friday afternoon Camp Nou Statevisited House Kibaki to discuss John in the is through theinLa Ramblas area – Kuffuor And thenabest long walk BarceloCamp Nou Sh2 800) (23 Euros, ongoing PEV over a cup of State House to discuss the that starts at a main square called na is through the La Ramblas area – cocoa). (23 Euros, Sh2 800) ongoing PEV over a cup of Plaza and called thirty minutes that starts at aCatalunya main square With the Cine-Europe Expo At the time, the painting cocoa). later ends the Columbus Monday morning Plaza Catalunya andatthirty minutes Monunoon, so that giant estimated to be worth Withover theby Cine-Europe Expo At thewas time, the painting on Columbus the One Ocean Montjulic Hill later endsment at the Monu-Port Vell, Monday morning could move the goods USD $ 50 million (Sh5 billionover bytrucks noon, so that giant was estimated to be worth Barcelona. Euros entry fee – Sh600) ment on the One Ocean Port Vell, Montjulic(5 Hill sophisticated machinery trucks and could move the goods this $ 50shillings). million (Sh5 billion Barcelona. Nothing spectacular about USD from the AC machinery Barcelona’s expo (5 Euros entry fee – Sh600) and sophisticated particular ramble – but it is the best shillings). The castle on Montjulic Hill has a Nothing spectacular about this halls, it was time to visit Nou from the AC Barcelona’s expo to see the streets and soul of rich and dark history, while theparticularstroll ramble – but it is the best Camp. The castle on Montjulic Hill has a Barcelona; and to keep fit in a very halls, it was time to visit Nou views it offers are as rich and stroll light ato see the streets and soul of This is one of the most rich and dark history, while the conscious city. Camp. tapestry of the picturesque Barcelona;health-and-fitness famous stadia on Earth, and and to keep fit in a very views it offers are as rich and light a Beware of pickpockets, though, as Thisthe is one of the most gods such Barcelona as one is ever goinghealth-and-fitness to temple to soccer conscious city.free street tapestry ofsee. the picturesque you stop to take in the famousasstadia on Earth, and Lionel Messi (and immortal Beware of pickpockets, though, as Barcelona as one is everviews goingaside, to there is performances. the temple to soccer gods such Fantastic football vampires like Luiz you stop to take in the free street see. as Lionel Messi and (anditimmortal also the fabulous side of this site in Suarez), was awe-inspirperformances. Fantastic views aside, there is footballing. vampires like Luiz the name of the Poble Espanyol – also the fabulous side of this site in in one all of ‘Spain’ contained Suarez), and it was awe-inspirThere is their football the name ofvillage the Poble – dozens of – theEspanyol night clubs, ing. museum near the Camp Nou all of ‘Spain’craft contained in one shops, restaurants and cafes There is theirwith football stadium, the history of village – thethat night clubs, dozens of reflect Spain’s diversified museum near theFB. Camp Nou Barcelona craft shops,regional restaurants and cafes culture. stadium, with the history of selling And huge Nike shops Of course, on the ground, Spain that reflect Spain’s diversified official Barcelona FB. Barca merchandise like is a politically complex country, regional culture. for 55 Euros Andshirts huge and Nikescarves shops selling pulling in different directions. Of course, on the ground, Spain 22 merchandise Euros ( Sh6,600 officialand Barca likeand The Galicians to the north-west is a politically complex country, Sh2,600) respectively. shirts and scarves for 55 Euros of Spain feel culturally separated, pulling in different directions. Of course I bought and 22 Euros ( Sh6,600 and a ‘Messi’ the Basque in the north was The Galicians to theregion north-west shirt and Barca FC scarf – but Sh2,600) respectively. a hotbed of secession from some nearby market of Spain feel culturally separated,terrorists for Of course I bought a ‘Messi’ Catalunya, whose stalls for FC Shsscarf 2,400 and the Basqueyears, regionwhile in the north was shirt and Barca – but Sh900 is Barcelona, respectively. a hotbed ofcapital secession terroristshas fordemanded from some nearby market from the capital And2,400 wasn’tand surprised, years, whileindependence Catalunya, whose stalls for Shs Sh900 at all, Madrid for decades, with some of to find ‘Made in China’ labels capital is Barcelona, has demanded respectively. the ‘minority’ rebels in jail or fled inside, but very well hidden like independence from the capital And wasn’t surprised, at all, abroad. a Leo Messi free kick. Madrid for decades, with some of to find ‘Made in China’ labels the ‘minority’ rebels in jail or fled inside, but very well hidden like abroad. a Leo Messi free kick.
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OUTOUT & ABOUT & ABOUT
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EATOUT —FRED KAGONYE
T
Y C I
he sun is finally out, and what better time than now to quench our thirst with some cream? Whether you are going for the ice cream, cakes, smoothies or shakes, what matters most is the freshness and the ingredients. One of the biggest ice cream and desserts
S S E N D O O G
eat-out spots in Nairobi is Cold Stone. Here, you can choose from a wide variety of ice cream, yogurt or sorbet flavours– all made fresh in their stores. You can have fruits, candies or nuts mixed into your ice cream. Here are some of our favourite picks from their signature Mama Ngina branch.
Coffee ice cream with roasted almonds, peanut butter and brownie. Price: Sh 350-500
Oh Mi Gosh Nosh - Ice cream with coconut shreds and cookie dough.
Custom cake with berries on top. Price: Sh1400-7000
Price: Sh350-500
Petitte Cakes. Price: Sh650-800
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APRIL 2019 pulser magazine
Coffee ice cream with roasted almonds, peanut butter and brownie. Price: Sh 350-500
It’s It’s It’s It’s It’s It’s It’s aIt’s aaIt’s live alive alive aalive alive live alive live concert live concert concert concert concert concert concert concert concert ininininyour in your inyour inyour inin your your your your your ears. ears. ears. ears. ears. ears. ears. ears. ears.
— tony mochama
Get Get Get Get Get Get Get Get yours yours yours yours yours yours yours yours today! today! today! today! today! today! today! today! +254 +254 +254 +254 +254 +254 +254 +254 +254 701 +254 701 +254 +254 701 +254 701 701 701 701 111 701 111 701 111 701 111 701 111 701 222 111 701 222 111 111 222 222 111 111 222 222 111 111 222 222 111 222 222 222 222 222 n // p r o u d ya n //// pp rr oo uu dd lly a n yya n /// pp rr oo u d lyy yyaa nn //// pp rr oo uu dd llyy u d ly an / yyaa nn //// pp rr oo uu dd llyy yyaa nn //// pp rr oo uu dd llyy yya n // p r o u d ly ya n // p r o u d llyy ya
ly k e n ya u dd ly kk ee nn yya nn // u d llyy k e n yaa nn / uu d ly kk ee nn ya n / uu dd llyy k ee n yyaa nn // uu dd lyy kk ee nn yyaa n // l n uu dd llyy kkk ee nn yyyaa nnn // uu dd llyy k e n yaa nn // d / u
r oruorduroldouyrludroykdolureylkudoryedlkourylkeudroyedlkourykleurdoyedokluruylkedoydeulklykdeyelkykeek e / p/ p/ /pp/ /pp/ /p p/n/pnp//nppn/ pnn n n nn nn n
keeppaceafrica.com keeppaceafrica.com keeppaceafrica.com keeppaceafrica.com keeppaceafrica.com keeppaceafrica.com keeppaceafrica.com keeppaceafrica.com keeppaceafrica.com keeppaceafrica.com keeppaceafrica.com keeppaceafrica.com keeppaceafrica.com
yaynyaany/n/ya/an/yn/ay/an//y/nya/a/ny/n/ya/an/y/n/ay/n//a/n//// k eknkeenknkeenkneknepknkrepeonpkrnrkeopoenprknroepkonrpeornpoprropoprroporpor o
HOTSPOT —FRED KAGONYE
hotspot TRACY GESARE
ELVIS OGINA
F
or a
minute there, dining in the CBD offered limited options. It was always done in the same few eateries that we knew like the back of our hands. It was the same haunts patrons frequented for early breakfast meetings, quick lunches and dinners to pass time as the traffic died down in the evenings. Then Café Javas better known as CJs prominently set up shop and things took a turn. A delicious turn. It stands out in all its glory right next to Yala Towers. The architecture and interior design gives it a very Parisian vibe and ambience that for a moment, you could forget the chaotic nature of the city. Still fresh and fascinating a few months after it
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opened its doors, you would want to make a reservation if you would rather not wait for a table to open up. Service in Kenya is something that is still wanting in most places. Luckily, here you do not have to wait for eons to be served as the wait staff is quite responsive. Also, the food is fresh and even better for you if you are a coffee-lover, as the beans are roasted on site making for a tantalising brew. There is a variety to choose from on the menu and their portions are generous to say the least. The halal restaurant is great for early morning business meetings when the town is slowly awakening. It is a great place for dates too and won’t put a hole in your wallet. I came for the hype and stayed for the chocolate brownie sundae. Open: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee, drinks.
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IN MY CLOSET
V
COURTESY
‑ AHADI WABUI
st u n ave e ay h big voic m dee t is the makes M a t s ti anes ooks bu orm tha the obl f s ning petite Beside try, she e . s in th gendary ic indu Tanzas e m her l the mu e VJ fro st and a in as ho B s s s V t hard e T n succ e first M r, an eve plays as nger s u te v i o l so t h l so tra des e n a he a no s was radio pr nista. S ame is erwork a ll a n o a t i f , r h a s a n d h e t h e r a es . B u t t . nia ble f d e u nota e works her abo escapa her clos t h g as s gs whe er datin eek into p lo to b res or h ’s take a u t vent side, le a that
FASHION-FORW
M
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WARD
MDEE
IN MY CLOSET
Q
: What accessories are a must-have? A: Weaves and Sunglasses. I keep losing and breaking my sunglasses. I have around 36 pairs of sunglasses.
COURTESY
Q: You do love experimenting with your hair... A: Hair is an amazing accessory. It can do a lot for you especially on stage while performing. I like to have fun with my hair and enjoy the versatility. I can be a brunette, blonde or even a redhead. Whatever I want. Q: What informs your fashion looks? A: I like to feel comfortable. That is my first rule. I also enjoy clothes that accentuate my figure. I believe all women are beautiful. We come in all shapes and sizes and we should not hide our forms under baggy clothes. The human form is a beautiful thing and there is no reason to hide it. Q: What is your to ride or die obsession? A: Shoes. I am obsessed with shoes. Lip gloss too. My love for shoes could take me to hell. Q: Does that explain your new shoe line? A: I designed BoraStar to motivate young African girls. It was a statement that young girls can dream big. The world belongs to real dreamers.
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fashion —peris wambugu
e
, y g d
u f Would you dare wear red from head to toe? Our muse, Ellein, sold us on the idea with this two-piece, red lace ensemble. It’s playful yet classy.
COURTESY
Hey beautiful. WHy not step out of your comfort zone and explore tHe poWer WitHin you to unapologetically express HoW you feel. it’s time to aWaken your funky, fun and edgy side.
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k n
y k
fashion Think girls night out to a fashion gig before hooking up for dinner with bae. The print cuts through the black lace beautifully tapping, into both vibes.
daring COURTESY It is a fun filled vibe with this red, jersey mini dress! We love how the satin trims inject contrasting texture and colours to the whole look. Remember, you are never too grown up to tap into your inner child. Feel free to slip into flats for a lunch date out in the park.
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go
dark
—peris wambugu
fabulous
fashion
THE TEAM Hair and nails: The Meraki by Sura Nzuri (Kilimani road, Elysee Plaza) Make-up: Dorah Shikuku Photography: Patrick Kamau (Studio Kamavazi) Designer: Achie Otigo Price available on request
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COURTESY
If clean cut does it for you, then this black, a-line, easy breezy, mini dress with floral lace trim is perfection. Cute and totally comfortable, it’s been designed to fit two sizes in one; this lar one fits an 8/10.
fashion
This dress is alluring yet covers you up; such a tease! The stretch leather and lace combo have been used in the right places to ensure you are is comfortable and feel sexy.
COURTESY
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As posh As pAlAce
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F
rom beauty queens, celebrated musicians, prominent politicians to other influential, this is where the crème de la crème comes to get their touch The mention of Posh Palace Hair Studio and Spa dazzles the thought of beauty, luxury and therapy. This is where the stars come to relax. Strategically located at the Nairobi uptown Sifa Towers along the quiet Lenana Road, this beauty palace that boasts of a salon, spa and barber shop – accounting for over 40 professional beauticians – attracts the high end clientele as well as celebrities seeking posh and luxurious beauty services. “Our offering consists of unique signature treatments ranging from hair and make-up. We have over 40 employees consisting of top celebrity stylists and beauticians who have marvelled the beauty industry with their expertise and passion towards the work they do,” says Susan Kaittany, the Posh Palace founder and CEO. “Our ultimate desire as a beauty spot is to leave everyone leaving beautiful. We are here to put the glow on your face,” she remarks. “We not only give good services, but also come with a wealth of beauty advice to our clients on new beauty trends in the hair and beauty industry and professional insight to all who seek our services,” notes the rather social boss, a lawyer whose love for beauty and adventure got her putting up the glow joint.
COURTESY
theglow
BEAUTYTIPS PERIS WAMBUGU
BEAUTY IS EVERYTHING IN A GIRL’S WORLD. THIS IS THE REASON WHY WE GIVE YOU SIMPLE BEAUTY TIPS THAT CAN BE ACHIEVED IN YOUR DAY TO DAY LIFE.
Make it a habit to take a glass of water every morning for proper hydration. Additionally, always eat a piece of your favorite fruit, that way you will easily achieve your glow.
1
Practice a morning skin care routine and by so doing you will be preventing oil build up on your skin. Applying moisturiser on your face and rinsing your skin regularly is an easy DIY when at home.
2
Have enough sleep to help maintain your beauty. On average, have seven to eight hours of sleep every night.
3
Drink milk every day. That way you strengthen your hair and bones. Milk as well makes your skin look younger, enhances your health and the look of your eyes. Why do you think babies glow?
4
Never pick pimples – Having pimples on your face can affect your beauty. This is because pricking can spread the infection further.
5
It is public knowledge by now that to attain a good skin, you need to hydrate. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day, which unknown to many, helps to prevent excess heat.
6
Treating yourself to a 7 facial every month helps even out your skin colour,
improve hydration as well as skin tone. Maintaining one’s lips is 8 also a beauty tip and routine. It is therefore essential to carry a lip balm everywhere you go to avoid your lips from drying out. The right kind of lip balm will always soften your lips.
COURTESY
W
e are all aware that there are hundreds of beauty tips and tricks all over the Internet. Your beauty therapist has probably given you more than you have ever asked for. However, following YouTube, blogs and Instagram accounts on beauty may not give you a consistent journey into perfecting this. We start off a practical journey that brings out the basic issues to do with beauty. This is the take off.
Keep away from the sun as this will gradually make your skin dry. If you have to expose yourself to the sun, invest in sunscreen.
9
In as much as make-up is supposed to enhance your beauty, it is always good to show people your natural beauty. If you have to apply make-up every day, try applying light and simple make up.
10
It is advisable to trim your hair every six to eight weeks to ensure proper hair growth and as well avoid split ends.
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Ensure you check your make-up kit each year to see what you need and what you do not need. Some may be expired and need to be discarded.
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Practice the habit of
9wearing 4 sunglasses every
time you are exposed to the sunlight, so as to avoid wrinkles on your face. Minimise the amount of stress in your day to day life. Stress is easily reflected on your face from your facial expressions. Try healthy habits by taking in deep breathes whenever you encounter stressful situations.
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Do not shy away from changing your hairstyle from time to time. By so doing, this brings out the different sides of you and also helps you determine which hair suits you best.
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8 1
L L TI E I ID
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COURTESY
MOVIE/THEARTE/ BOOKS -WINNIE MAKENA
Shazam! Cast: Zachary Levi, Djimon Hounsou, Mark Strong
Genre(s): Action | Adventure | Fantasy | Sci-Fi
Directed by: David F. Sandberg In Theatres: April 5 by Warner Bros We all have a superhero inside us, it just takes a bit of magic to bring it out. In Billy Batson’s (Angel) case, by shouting out one word — SHAZAM! — this streetwise 14-year-old foster kid can
Breakthrough Cast: Topher Grace, Sam Trammell,
Chrissy Metz, Josh Lucas, Rebecca Staab, Marcel Ruiz Genre(s): Biography, Drama Directed by: Roxann Dawson In Theatres: April 17 by 20th Century Fox When he was 14, Smith drowned in Lake Sainte Louis and was dead for
The Curse of La Llorona Cast: Linda Cardellini, Patricia
Velasquez, Raymond Cruz Genre(s): Mystery, Thriller, Horror Directed by: Michael Chaves In Theatres: April 19by Warner bros studios In 1970s Los Angeles, La Llorona is stalking the night, and the children.
turn into the adult Superhero Shazam (Levi), courtesy of an ancient wizard. Still a kid at heart — inside a ‘ripped’, godlike body — Shazam revels in this adult version of himself by doing what any teen would do with superpowers: have fun with them! Can he fly? Does he have X-ray vision? Can he shoot lightning out of his hands? Can he skip his social studies test? Shazam sets out to test the limits of his abilities with the joyful recklessness of a child. But he’ll need to master these powers quickly in order to fight the deadly forces of evil controlled by Dr. Thaddeus Sivana (Strong).
nearly an hour. According to reports at the time, CPR was performed for 27 minutes to no avail. Then the youth’s mother, Joyce Smith, entered the room, praying loudly. Suddenly, there was a pulse, and Smith came around. Based on a true story, from producer DeVon Franklin (Miracles from Heaven) and adapted for the screen by Grant Nieporte (Seven Pounds) from Joyce Smith’s own book, BREAKTHROUGH is an enthralling reminder that faith and love can create a mountain of hope, and sometimes even a miracle.
Ignoring the eerie warning of a troubled mother suspected of child endangerment, a social worker and her own small kids are soon drawn into a frightening supernatural realm. She is called to check in on one of her cases, she finds signs of foul play. As she digs deeper, she finds striking similarities between the case and the terrifying supernatural occurrences haunting her family. Enlisting the help of a local faith healer, she discovers that La Llorona has latched herself onto Anna and will stop at nothing to take her children.
Avengers: Endgame Cast: Brie Larson, Bradley Cooper, Scarlett Johansson Genre(s): Action, Adventure, Fantasy Directed by: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo In Theatres: April 26 by Marvel Studios. After the devastating events of Avengers: Infinity War (2018), the universe is in ruins. With the help of remaining allies, the Avengers assemble once more in order to undo Thanos’ actions and restore order to the universe. Marvel movies, like their comic book source material, interlock and set the table for the others. For example,
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Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2’s universe-jumping set up a bridge to Thor: Ragnarok and its wormhole-jumping. Thor: Ragnarok then set up Infinity War with a post-credits scene in which Thanos attacked the Asgardian rescue ship. And in typical Marvel fashion, Avengers: Infinity War ended with Nick Fury paging Carol Danvers, making it clear that Captain Marvel would appear in Avengers: Endgame, but the promotions for Endgame have only featured characters who survived Infinity War. Question is, Which Avengers will live and die in Avengers: Endgame
HELLBOY
MOVIES
Cast: David Harbour, Milla Jovovich, Ian McShane Genre(s): Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Sci-Fi Directed by: Neil Marshall In Theatres: April 12 by empire studio
H
ellboy is back, and he’s on fire. Based on the graphic novels by Mike Mignola’s seminal work, this action packed story sees the legendary half-demon superhero (David Harbour, “Stranger Things”) called to the English countryside to battle a trio of rampaging giants. There he discovers The Blood Queen, Nimue (Milla Jovovich, Resident Evil series), a resurrected ancient sorceress eager to avenge a past betrayal. Suddenly caught in a clash between the supernatural and the human, Hellboy is now hell-bent on stopping Nimue without triggering the end of the world.
Eleanor & Park Author: Rainbow Rowell Pages: 333 Genre: Romance Rating: 4 Pulse rates/ 5
R
owell’s debut young adult novel follows the story of two misfits, Eleanor and Park, living in Omaha, Nebraska. Eleanor is the new girl in town, and she stands out but not in the kind of way any schoolgirl would like. With her chaotic family life, curvy body type, her mismatched clothes and unruly red hair, she couldn’t stick out more if she tried. Park Sheridan is the sensitive half-Korean boy who rides at the back of the school bus. Black T-shirts, headphones on, head in a book, he thinks he’s made himself invisible. But not to Eleanor. On her first morning bus ride to school, Eleanor gets on the bus and has nowhere to sit. Fearing the worst for her, he angrily swears at Eleanor to sit next
to him, and despite the six inches of space she leaves between them, it’s the start of something really special. From then on, Eleanor and Park seat together on the bus silently reading comics together, then talking about music. The bus conversations slowly, and steadily move to late-night conversations and an ever-growing stack of mix tapes. It is inevitable that Eleanor and Park fall for each other. They fall in love the way you do the first time, when you’re young and naive, and you feel as if you have nothing and everything to lose.
Thumbs Up
The book has the ability to take you back to that time you experienced your first love. Where you felt that love could last a lifetime, help heal wounds and open doors. Other than love, it explores through passionate conversations and debates - the role of women in comic books, music, body image, discrimination and domestic violence.
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boots and balls ‑fredrick karanja
Down to the wire
As the 2018/2019 ePL seAson comes to the end, we PLAce our wiLd cArd on the best five bets
They were meant to be battling it out for the title but somehow find themselves fighting for a top four spot something they seemed to have secured as far as December. The team has been playing well despite few injuries. Cruising to the last eight in the champion’s league was a statement that they are knocking on the door of europe elites and domestically they look set for a finish, at least top five.
EPL CHAMPIONS
Arsenal
i would put my money on the arab owned manchester City to win the title this season ahead of liverpool. at the beginning of the season the team picked up from where they left last season and it looked easier for them to retain the title than lose it. liverpool brought their continental exploits energy from last season to the league and have on been on top of the log longer than City have. Throughout the campaign, City have stumbled dropping points to weaker opposition and liverpool have been more than ready to capitalise on the lapses but they too have seen their energy levels drop and have fallen to small teams that one would have expected them to blow away easily. By December it looked all sealed that liverpool were winning the title and Tottenham looked likely to be the runners-up ahead of City but the cards have since changed. City got on top in march and now Tottenham finds itself battling it out for the top four spot with manchester united, arsenal and Chelsea.
THE TOP 4 BATTLE Manchester United
They looked as if they were bound to go to europa league during the mourinho era but are now among those considered favourites to win the Champions league. in the league they dropped point to teams they were supposed to beat easily in this ear. The appointment of Ole gunnar solskjaer in late December brought a breath of fresh air to the team who between then and mid-march lost just two competitive games. The resurgence sees them race ahead of arsenal and Tottenham and i have my money on them to finish top four.
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Tottenham
The team was expected to struggle to find Wenger’s replacement like manchester united did when sir alex Ferguson left but unai emery seems to have done a better to adapt to the team and this new competition. arsenal looks stronger than the team they were last season and they i can bet they will battle it out to the end for the top four spot.
Chelsea
With the exit of antonio Conte who left due to his run ins with the board over which players to sign, in came maurizio sarri who was to bring joy to the Chelsea due to his style of pay “sarri ball” a term he has dismissed. as a Chelsea fan i would so love for my team to finish in the top four but i just can’t see it happening.
RELEGATION BATTLE
Huddersfield and Fulham are all set for the chop not unless a miracle happens. Between Cardiff, Burnley, southampton, Brighton, Crystal palace and newcastle one team will be relegated. in this list, i don’t see Cardiff surviving.
MANAGER OF THE SEASON WINNER
Wolverhampton Wanderer’s head coach nuno espirito santo is the favourite candidate to clinch the coach of the season award this season. since his appointment in 2017, the club has achieved success they haven’t enjoyed for a long time now. as it stands Wolves is europa league bound, which will be an overachievement for a team that was poised to fight to stay up in the league. COURTESY
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GOLDEN BOOT WINNER This year’s golden Boot is Kun aguero’s to lose. mohammed salah, sergio aguero, pierre emereck aubameyang and Harry Kane have all won the golden Boot at different stages in their career in the epl and only aubameyang is yet to taste the european premier league golden Boot. But he has won the Bundesliga equivalent. my bet would go to aguero, Kane and aubameyang as the favorites but this will end up being a two horse race. Your bet is as good as mine.
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games
s e o r e h in v
boniface mithika
M
i d e o game s
arvel’s successes with their video games have been a hit and miss over the years. For every great game like Marvel: Ultimate Alliance or Spider-Man 2, there has been a dozen dumpster fires like X-Men: Destiny or Fantastic Four. One of the consequences of this limited success is that Marvel tends to only give the biggest names a chance to shine in the video game world, namely Spider-Man and the X-Men. Video games lovers have been waiting to see a game led by some of the heroes that have so far been relegated to bit players in an ensemble or worse, a cameo appearance in a cut scene. With such a massive lineup of spandex-clad or fur covered marvel superheroes; be it an intergalactic joyride with Rocket Raccoon and Groot or a mystical journey into the unknown with Doctor Strange, we believe some would make the best thrilling games of our time.
Black Panther: The Black Panther movie made millions of dollars worldwide and has become a cultural phenomenon with Oscar platform. Based on the character, the player can explore Wakanda as King T’Challa (and maybe even play as Shuri in the science lab for a bit). This would be a definite hit. Dr. Strange: Doctor Strange’s magical
powers would make for a fun gaming experience, and in the off time, it would be intriguing to walk around his Sanctum Sanctorum, discovering magical secrets in documents, books, and artifacts. Although in the earlier consoles this would not have been much of fun. But with the new gaming consoles it would have proven to be worthy of a title featuring the sorcerer supreme. Imagine navigating through a weapon wheel of spells in order to perform some of Strange’s signature incantations.
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Captain America: A World War II - set
video game like Call of Duty (with less killing, obviously) where you play as Captain America.
Iron Man: Flying around in Iron Man’s armor is only something average people would be able to do in a video game, and the MCU has made the character a hit with moviegoers. He could be a hit with gamers, as well.
MCU debut, and centering a video game on them would promise an action-packed, hilarious story set in space. The possibilities are endless.
Dare Devil: This is one special character
Wolverine: This great character with
since he is blind, but his other senses are enhanced and he ‘sees’ using radar-like vision. Scouring the streets of Hell’s Kitchen in New York City, where a player can clip back and forth between a third-person point of view and first-person radar vision, would make for a new kind of superhero gaming experience.
Rocket and Groot: The beauty of Rocket and Groot is how well they complement each other. Rocket is a small, fast-talking, gun-toting, explosion-loving rodent. Groot is a huge, super-strong and super-durable tree creature. Imagine the ability to switch between one character loaded with guns and bombs and the other who can take tons of damage while he bashes enemies with extendable wooden limbs. Putting aside their abilities, the characters were clear fan favorites in their
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decades of lore, character-building and personality backing him up is yet to rise to prominence in a stand-alone video game. More people probably know his name than Iron Man’s, with that kind of star power and timeless cool-factor we this can be an amazing game going by his motto, “ I am good at what I do”, given the love and respect considering his fighting skills and abilities such a game would be a big seller.
The Punisher: This is one superhero that
has no superpowers, has very few friends and no steady supply of cash. He chases his own idea of justice as an anti-hero vigilante, driven by a mixture of love for his deceased family and resentment for their killers. This status as an anti-hero makes him far more intriguing
COURTESY
than standard heroes because he’s not ostentatiously good. He’s flawed, and that makes him more real. While Spider-Man uses his powers to protect the people and Batman acts as a vigilante to prevent the kind of injustice that led to the death of his parents, The Punisher is a hero fueled by vengeance. He kills ostensibly bad people — drug dealers, murderers, and crime lords — but does so outside of the law.
Thor: This would be awesome, my views. Just imagine the graphics with an incredible clever mechanic - offering a weapon that can hit enemies up-close, but also thrown and hits more enemies on the way back to your hand. I figure of a game that would copy this mechanic. But honestly, ‘God of War’ game for PlayStation 4 introduced ‘the Leviathan Axe’ which can be thrown at enemies and recalled to your hand like a magnet. It’s highly reminiscent of a certain Marvel superhero demigod and his trusty hammer and to be fair Thor comics and films
introduced this weapon concept came way before “God of War” came out.
support roles, as a fully playable character, and even as the theme to a pinball table
Antman: The versatility that such a game would bring about is a force to reckon with. Lang is a wiz with computers and electronics, offering an array of gadgets, hacking, or creative ways to take down enemies. There is his control of ants, using them as spies and transportation. More obvious though, his ability to shrink and take on situations virtually undetected plus his ability to change sizes during combat for the advantage although this might be the hardest part in making the game Shrinking small enough would also give players a few sections in the subatomic, down into a completely different and creative world where the normal rules of science don’t apply.
Captain Marvel: She has been
Moon Knight: Within the last few years, we have been lucky enough to have Moon Knight appear in several games. These appearances cover a broad range within games. He can be seen in unplayable
steadily gaining popularity in the comics since Carol Danvers took the name in 2012, but the character has actually been around since 1968. Her power set essentially makes her like Marvel’s version of Superwoman, with superhuman strength, speed, stamina, durability, flight and energy blasts. She also spends a lot of time in the Marvel cosmic corner of the universe, which means a game focused on the character could see her on Earth or in space, or ideally a combination of the two. This is another instance where a female-led video game could provide some diversity to video games, and if the movie is as successful as the MCU’s other properties, fans will be clamoring for a video game Lastly, we should have a game that ties all the above Marvel games together…How thrilling would that be!
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trending topfeature
With 25 musicians and producers featured, the 2019 season of coke studio africa has gone on air featuring a stellar cocktail of the finest artistes in the continent at the moment.
A
fter months in the recording booth, the show is now on. The new season of Coke Studio Africa has launched. The TV show that brings together some of the most talented and diverse stars in Africa will be showcasing throwbacks, original compositions and covers by musicians who have been marshaled together to define the new African sound. And now, we unveil the stars making the united sound of Africa in the year 2019. 1. Mimi Mars Tanzanian fastest rising stars Mimi Mars is a triple threat to say the least. Establishing herself as a singer, TV and YouTube personality and emcee, she is slowly taking over the Bongo scene with her smash hits Kodoo, Shuga and Papara. She makes her debut on Coke Studio Africa – 2019 in the Big Break segment and will be performing alongside King Saha (Uganda) and Yared Negu (Ethiopia) – to be produced by Ugandan producer Daddy Andre. 2. Khaligraph Jones Crowned Best Rap Act at the AFRIMMA Awards 2018, Kenyan rap king Khaligraph Jones, aka Papa Jones, is undoubtedly one of the most influential African rappers of this decade. Touted to have a rap flow as quick as Twista’s or M.I’s, Khaligraph’s style is unique with a
united sound of
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flexible flow. Musically, the O.G, as he is popularly known across showbiz circles, cuts across the complexity of all genres, eras and music fans, quickly rising to become one of Africa’s most sought-after rapper. On Coke Studio Africa 2017, Khaligraph wowed audiences when he did an R&B cover of Rwandese singer Bruce Melodie’s You Complete Me. On the new season, he will take it a notch higher with music fusions from Afrobeats and hip-hop as he is paired with Rudeboy and Kenyan superstar producer Magic Mike, who will be producing their collabos. 2019 certainly looks promising for this music genius. 3. Nadia Mukami In only about three years since establishing her career in Kenya’s music industry, Nadia Mukami is already recognised as one of the fastest rising popstars and voices to look out for in the region. The singer, who is also a stellar songwriter, has under her belt hit singles such as Si Rahisi, African Lover and Yule Yule. She makes her debut feature on Coke Studio Africa 2019 in the Big Break segment alongside Juma Jux (Tanzania) and Shellsy Baronet (Mozambique). 4. Harmonize Tanzanian Bongo flava star Harmonize is a young legend in the making and among East Africa’s biggest acts currently. From Kwangwaru with Diamond Platnumz, Fire Waist with Skales, Sisi Maria remix with Omoakin and 911 with Yemi Alade and Krizbeatz, 2018 was certainly a good year for Harmonize. With over 120 million YouTube views to his name, Harmonize has a massive fan base that will get to see him make his debut on the new season of Coke Studio Africa, paired alongside Ugandan songstress Sheebah with their collaborations produced by GospelOnDeBeatz— one of Africa’s most sought-after music producers. This is one face to watch out for in 2019.
Afri
topfeature 5. Nandy The honey-voiced balladist Nandy brought us beloved hits such as Njiwa with Willy Paul. She is at the helm of top Tanzanian divas in music with her new album The African Princess boasting of hits such as One Day, Nagusa Gusa, Aibu, Njiwa with Willy Paul and Ninogeshe. The 2017 winner of Best Female Artiste East Africa at AFRIMMA Awards continues to rise beyond the East African music scene. Nandy collaborated with Ethiopian songbird Betty G on her 2017 debut on Coke Studio Africa. She makes her second return on the 2019 edition of Coke Studio, paired with Nigerian hit maker Skales, with their collaborations produced by GospelOnDeBeatz (Nigeria). 6. Jux With top charting his songs such as Utaniua, Zaidi, Wivu and Juu featuring Vanessa Mdee under his belt, Tanzania’s top bongo R&B sensation Juma Jux is a bona fide star with impeccable style and sound. In 2015, he bagged an award for Best R&B song at Kili Music Awards (Tanzania). For many years, Jux has been balancing a career in music and business as the CEO and founder of renowned fashion brand, African Boy, alongside studying in China. He says he owes his career to his fan base as they never gave up on him. 2018 has been a defining year for the star and the first his focus wasn’t set on anything other than music. He makes his debut on Coke Studio Africa 2019 paired with Mozambican songstress Shellsy Baronet and produced by Lizer (Tanzania). 7. Kasiva Kasiva Mutua is an accomplished Kenyan percussionist, drummer, singer and songwriter. She is one of the few African women playing percussion internationally and says she was inspired into music by her grandmother’s traditional folklore. Her love for percussion has seen her perform on various Pan-African platforms including at Coke Studio Africa, where she will be making a return for her second time this year.
CO
8. Rophnan Ethiopian music star Rophnan Nuri is a renowned songwriter, electronic music deejay, composer and producer. Well-respected for his skills as a DJ, he blends high tempo electronic beats with Ethiopian melodies. His debut album, Netsebrak (Reflection), which was released last year was well-received by music fans, especially with Addis Ababa’s growing love for Electronic Dance Music (EDM). Rophnan’s influence on the younger generation has grown immensely and made a mark in the Addis music scene after he dropped the 15-track album. Rophnan Nuri will make his debut on Coke Studio Africa paired with Zambian rapper, Chef 187. He will be making history as the first act to double both as a producer and artiste.
TE UR SY
icA
9. Boity South African rapper Boity wears many hats! The celebrated media personality and actress has also over the years worked hard to establish herself as a businesswoman. Since 2017, she has launched her body toning products Boity Toning Solution and Boity Toning Pill. Having come into the spotlight with the release of her debut single Wuz Dat featuring Nasty C; 2019 is set to be her breakout year in music as the whole of Africa will get to see her tear down the mic in a hip-hop collabo like no other! 10. Mr Eazi Undoubtedly, the hottest independent artiste in the Afrobeats music scene, Nigeria’s Mr Eazi has cemented his status as a global superstar. In 2018, he was among the top African acts with the most streams on Spotify. Known for his Banku sound, he has worked with the crème de la crème of the music scene such as renowned American DJ/producer Diplo, rapper French Montana and Giggs. Both his discographies, Accra to Lagos and Life is Eazi Vol. 2 Lagos to London have received critical acclaim. Eazi makes his debut on Coke Studio Africa 2019, performing alongside Tanzanian songstress Nandy and produced by Krizbeatz.
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11. Naiboi Formerly known as Rapdamu, Naiboi is one of the biggest Kenyan hit makers of this decade. As an artiste, he is multi-talented and the force behind renowned Kenyan record label, Pacho Entertainment. He is also a music producer and responsible for a slew of Kenyan hits among them 2 in 1, Wele Wele and Inside with Rosa. Over the years he has collaborated with top artistes including Fuse ODG, Timmy TDat and Kristoff. He will make his debut on Coke Studio Africa paired alongside Tanzania’s Bongo Flava star Rayvanny, with their music fusions produced by Lizer. 12. Weasel Weasel is best known as one-half of Radio & Weasel — East Africa’s most successful and beloved music duo. Alongside Radio, Weasel is responsible for some of Africa’s biggest hits such as Magnetic, Breathe Away and Don’t Cry. Following the loss of his partner Radio, 2018 has forced Weasel to start a new life and solo career. He will be returning to Coke Studio Africa 2019, paired with a close friend of his and Radio’s, King Saha. The Ugandan counterparts will also collaborate with Yared Negu (Ethiopia). 13. Lourena Nhate Lourena Nhate is a Mozambican multi-award winning singer, songwriter and dancer who has achieved continental success with hits such as only with the songs Nita Famba na Wena, Ni wa Wena, A wu Hembi and Na Mbonga Papa. Starting off her career by participating and winning multiple singing competitions, Lourena’s brand has since seen her tour worldwide including the Asian regions. She makes her debut on Coke Studio Africa and will be paired with Ethiopian singer – Abush Zeleke. 14. Valter Artistico Valter Artístico is a Mozambican singer and songwriter and one of fastest rising stars who is currently enjoying a drastic career growth, thanks to his chart-topping hits: Marandza, Chefe do Quarteirao, Nandzzicado, and Nasci Pra Te Amar featuring Twenty Fingers. He makes a debut on Coke Studio Africa 2019 in the Big Break segment working with Rudeboy (Nigeria) and Khaligraph Jones (Kenya), with the pair being produced by Kenyan producer Magic Mike. 15. Tamy Moyo Since launching her career at the age of 18, Zimbabwean female artiste Tamy Moyo has risen to command a huge following across Zimbabwe and Africa. With one album already under her name titled The 18th Roller Coaster, the 20-year-old vocalist is a NAMA nominee for Best Female Artiste. She will bring her star power when the new season of Coke Studio premieres and is paired with Lourena Nhate (Mozambique) and Abush Zeleke (Ethiopia) and will be produced by Ugandan producer Daddy Andre. 16. Alvin Kizz Alvin Kizz is one of the fastest rising stars in Uganda and touted as the next big star of the East African music industry. Known for hits Nkulowoozako, Tubalaba and Julia, the celebrated act had his big break in 2018 after the release of the smash hit single Nkulawoozako with Coke Studio Africa shining diva from Ugandan Sheebah Karungi. As an all-rounded artiste, he approaches entertainment with music that is conscious and this has endeared many fans towards his craft at an early stage. Alvin Kizz makes his debut on Coke Studio Africa 2019 in the Big Break segment collaborating with Winky D (Zimbabwe) and Messias (Mozambique), with the trio pair produced by Nigerian producer GospelOnDeBeatz.
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17. Shellsy Baronet The 20-year-old Mozambican singer Shellsy Baronet famed for her hit single Ultima Mocha, is one of the youngest stars to join Coke Studio Africa. Her first stint with the show was in 2017, paired alongside Eddy Kenzo (Uganda) and Bisa Kidei (Ghana) as a Big Break act on a special segment on the show spotlighting rising stars. This paved way for her success in her country; and in a few months, the music video of her single surpassed one million YouTube views. She also won an award for Best Female Act and this trajectory prompted Coke Studio Africa to enlist her for the 2019 edition as a main act. On the show, she will be collaborating with Tanzanian R&B singer Jux.
in music fusions alongside Harmonize (Tanzania).
18. Mahlet Popular Ethiopian songstress Mahlet Gebregiorg (Mahi) known for her soulful voice merged in traditional Ethiopian influences, will be making her debut at Coke Studio Africa 2019 paired alongside Tanzania’s BET award-winner Rayvanny. The duo’s music collabos will be produced by leading Tanzanian hit maker; Lizer. Mahlet’s hit singles include Haneta, Kunama and Hizimbele. Africa should expect to discover more Ethiopian sounds, and varied languages including Tigrigna (the Afro-Asiatic language from the Horn of Africa) from Mahlet.
21. Keysha Tanzanian songstress Keysha, best known for her hit collabo Nimechoka featuring East African Music King – Diamond Platnumz, will be making a comeback on the music scene after a brief hiatus on the upcoming new season of Coke Studio Africa. She has always been an over achiever and dabbles up as a singer and politician. Her story of resilience and determination has led her to bring her powerful lyrics and songs on a Pan-African platform. She makes history as the first artiste living with albinism to be featured on the Pan-African music show.
19. Sheebah Coming from her successful first solo major concert dubbed Omwooyo, top Ugandan singer Sheebah Karungi with hits Nkwatako and Mummy Yo, has been at the top of her game. She came into the scene with renowned all-girl dance group, Obsessions. Over the years, she has evolved to become of one Uganda’s most celebrated entertainers. The singer and dancer has gone on to win several top awards including Female Artiste of the Year and Artiste of the Year at the Uganda Music Awards (2017). Last year on Coke Studio Africa, she worked with Asegegnew Ashko (Ethiopia) Bill Nas (Tanzania) and Gemini Major (Malawi). In 2019, she will make her second return to the show, produced by GospelOnDaBeatz (Nigeria)
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20. Lioness Namibian Rap Queen Lioness has been in the Namibian hip-hop scene for three years, and in this time she has risen from being an underground rapper to one of the leading voices in her country. With two extended play (Eps) to her name ILL3 (2015) and ILL4 and the 2018 album Pride of CilQ, Lioness is set to impress Africa with her refreshing sound and fierce stage act. On the new Coke Studio Africa, Lioness will be paired with Boity (South Africa) and legendary Kenyan rapper (Nazizi). The trio will fuse urban hip-hop sounds with a twist of female power.
22. Wendy Kemunto With top charting songs such as Maybe, Nanana and Only One with Steph Kapela, Kemunto is hands down one of Kenya’s most promising acts with a power house voice. Coke Studio Africa discovered her talent through an Instagram post of a viral cover of Yemi Alade and Sauti Sol’s collabo Africa, which the award-winning Nigerian queen also reposted. For two years, she has been singing as one of the background singers on the show, and at the same time working on her solo career. Since graduating from Sauti Academy, Kemunto’s career has been on an upward trajectory. On the new season, the Afro-Urban soul-driven musician will be getting a bigger spotlight.
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LOOSE CHANGE
HOROSCOPE CHANGE ‑THE PULSARLOOSE ASTROLOGER
HOROSCOPE ‑tHe puLsAr AstrOLOGer
pure c0smic mystery H
i. I am The Pulsar astrologer. I study just one particular type of star, the pulsar – the flickering stars that blink in the night sky, just like the pulse in your wrist – to bring you an accurate monthly prediction. Most astrologers just look at the night sky, the same way many pilots use their naked eye for visibility. But as we saw with the Ethiopian Airline crash, the weather can be crystal clear, but the plane still falls because of a ‘stall’ corrected by a false sensor. But with Pulsars, the Astrologer is never wrong – because my readings are from the inner core of the Universe itself, where stars aren’t just read – but where they are born and perish.
Aries - March 21 – April 19
This is the year of the Earth Pig, as per the Chinese Zodiac, so most astrologers will advise you to stay stable in life – from career to relationships. But as per my Pulsar reading, this is the time to take the plunge, and try that business idea. The time to take a chance on a new relationship, too, if the old one is like a hog stuck-in-the-mud.
Taurus – April 20 – May 20
In the devilish constellation of Draco, 4 billion light years away from here, a black hole is devouring a
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large pulsar called Swift. As stable Taurus, the Year of the Earth Pig simply means if you don’t make a lot of money this year, you will have to wait again until 2024 A.D. to do so. So, carpe diem (Seize the Day).
Gemini – May 21 – June 21
If you rely on your imagination, intuition or supposed insight to get anything done this month, You will get royally screwed, according to the shape of the stars. This is the time to be suspicious, and study everything in your way with a gremlin eye, my dear Gemini.
Cancer – June 22 – July 22
You are ready for every kind of adventure, from the physical to the spiritual. This is the month for you to explore everything, Cancer – from team retreats, to a shift of church, to a body that you have been curious about right from the start of the year 2019.
Leo – July 23 – August 22
Being an angry lion in a month where the Earth Pig is King will simply not do. Don’t take on ‘higher powers’ this month, in the manner of a deputy taking on The Prince. Be humble! A re-reading of both Machiavelli and 48 Laws of Power may be in order.
VIRGO – Aug 23 – Sept 22
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200,000 light years away in the galaxy of Magellan that lies within the constellation of Virgo, this month, the astrologer has seen a small pulsar inside a giant red star. You are that pulsar, and we see grave danger all about you, Virgo, so be very careful.
into reality – even if that Dream may not come into full fruition till 2030 A.D. The Chinese say Journey of a Thousand Mile begin with One Step. Take that step THIS month!
Capricorn – Dec 22 – Jan 19
Libra will need to observe Lent this month, as well as ensure the rent is paid in time. Easter will be a time of feeling great spirituality. However, be prepared for something quite exciting to find you on the last ten days of the month.
A pulsar in the Scutum-Centaurus spiral of our Milky Way says that it is time that you, Capricorn, took a break from friends, social media and just had some ‘ME’ time for yourself. Otherwise you will burn out by midyear. If you are a family person, then make sure this month is dedicated to your Near and Dear.
Scorpio – Oct 23rd – Nov 21st
Aquarius Jan 20 – Feb 18
Libra – Sept 23 – Oct 22
Methusellah – the red giant star that glows 200 light years away in our southern skies – has now entered the constellation of Scorpio. This means that you will begin to get premonitions from the Universe, or even strange dreams that may be prophetic. Keep a notebook by your bedside to record your dreams! Their meaning will become clear next year, like 20/20 vision, in 2020.
Lots of letters, calls or e-mails from all over the place could spell a year of upcoming opportunities for you. However, the Aqua star sign asks that you minimize long distance travel this month. Cars crash, planes fall, and even your Water Sign may not save you from a watery grave if your boat capsizes.
Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21st
The Metaphysics of the Universe this month are very favourably inclined towards Pisces. You will swim with the sharks, and hunt with the foxes, all for some fairly good returns. Kitaeleweka!
We have spotted the activity of a very fast spinning mini-Pulsar in the constellation of Serpeus. The Interpretation? Stop reading silly motivational books, and actually start the seeds that will turn your dream
Pisces Feb 19 – March 20
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