VOL 5.06 | JUNE | FREE COPY
nairobi’s urban perspective SPECIAL: NAIROBI’S WASTED WATERWAYS
The Love Issue INSIDE: CAN LOVE SURVIVE RACE AND CLASS? PG • 4 DATING & ROMANCE WITH THE BOYS FROM SAUTI SOL PG • 18 NAIROBI’S FAVOURITE HOOKING UP APPS PG •31 PLUS:
UPFRONT
Managing Editor Katy Fentress Associate Editor Amal Mohamed Graphic Designer Rachel Wanjira Staff Writer Ondi Madete Editorial Intern Liz Maelane Marketing Operations Manager Sandra Chege Marketing Coordinator Thomas Mutisya Client Services Manager Isabel Karuga Sales & Distribution Coordinator Evans Cheruiyot ICT Coordinator Debrah Nyamokami
Icons Artwork: Denis Muraguri
Advertising, subscriptions, back issues and inquiries: Mondeas Limited P.O Box 678 - 00621, Village Market | Nairobi T: +254 733 422 726/733 975 921 info@upnairobi.com, www.upnairobi.com Disclaimer Readers are advised to make appropriate enquiries and take appropriate advice before sending money, incurring any expenses or entering into binding commitment in relation to an advertisement. UP magazine shall not be liable to any persons for loss or damage incurred or suffered as a result of his/her accepting or offering to accept an invitation contained in any advertisement published in this magazine.
Copyright ©2014
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Contributors, Photography & Illustrations Auma Autsango Suzie Gathigia Point Blank Mugethi Gitau Liz Maelane
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Commercial Director Sapna Chandaria
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Editorial & Creative Director Rand Pearson
My love for Nairobi isn’t only for the slums. For all the insecurity and daily gridlock, Nairobians are an incredibly easy-going, good-natured society. The Kenyans I know avoid conflict and seek a peaceful and thriving existence. I’ve never seen an incident of road-rage in Nairobi (and that’s saying something). After the horrors of Westgate we all came together. #Weareone read the social media feed. The unfortunate events of the last few months have, however, put us on edge and replaced unity with suspicion. We cannot, must not, allow that the actions of a few push us to turn on our brothers and sisters. We love Nairobi, because despite the potential threats lying in wait around the corner, it is an open and welcoming city. Editor’s Note: Katy Fentress has recently I love Nairobi because the moment you scratch beneath the surface of the traffic, joined us as our esteemed Managing Editor. trash and disappointing law-enforcement She brings with her a wealth of experience service, you uncover a dynamic, creative and in journalism and editing. This is her first bustling metropolis. issue on the job, and with it, comes her I love Nairobi because of the air you breathe as you walk through the Arboretum open letter to Nairobi. on a misty morning and because of the grass you sit on in Karura park on a Sunday picnic. lood is running through the I love Nairobi because of the way the dawn streets. A low-intensity war is breaks over its skyline as you drive in from being waged against Kenyans and Upper Hill. I love Nairobi because of the colour it is taking a toll on our collective and vitality of its mitumba and vegetable psyche. We continue to live as markets. before, refusing to let terror change our habits, I love Nairobi because it is an but it’s hard not to dwell on the innocent upwardly mobile city. Nairobi holds the people who have lost their lives. promise that wherever you come from, with Since moving here three years ago, I creativity, hard work, perseverance and have come to love this city. When I first started vision, it is possible to achieve your dreams. visiting this place, my encounters were racked The ongoing importance of this promise is one with suspicion and fear. I had been cautioned that needs to be recognised by our leaders: against doing so many otherwise ‘normal’ if those who are tasked with keeping us things, that I found it hard to find my ‘feet’. safe, give the impression they are more Then one day something clicked. concerned with their power games and VE I went to Mathare for the first time in 2010 fail to nurture our potential, we will S S I on an assignment to meet the formidable increasingly feel fragmented and inevitably Spray Uzi graffiti crew. Spray Uzi were in the turn on the failed systems intended to support process of completing a huge mural, which us. unapologetically depicted an apocalyptic post This month, the theme for Nairobi election violence tableau. UP Magazine is Love. It is also my first month I realised then, that there was a true as Managing Editor for the publication and I resistance to status-quo-fat-cat-behaviour am extremely honoured to have the chance among the city’s creative classes. With people to work at UP at a time in which Nairobi is, like Spray Uzi and the vibrant entrepreneurial more than ever, in need of our declarations of forces driving this town’s modern culture, we love and support. This month’s articles cover had and continue to have a great future ahead. an array of topics: for our opinion piece we My love affair with Nairobi began in went and asked two writers whether they felt the slums. In places like Mathare and Kibera, I love could transcend the barriers of race and met inspirational people who strive every day class, for our main feature we interviewed to bring colour and joy to their surroundings. superstar heartthrobs Sauti Sol on the pitfalls It’s not safe to go out at night in Mathare. of celebrity love and dating in Nairobi and for Danger lurks in the shadows. But the truth our investigative report we sent out one of is, when the alleys are lit by the floodlights our star reporters to find out more about the installed overhead, neighbourhoods become pollution of the Athi river - because how can alive with music, chatter, and the sound of we love our city if we don’t love the water that people living, enjoying, being. When someone courses through it too? Within the pages you’ll from the outside shows a little bit of interest, also find more on dating in Nairobi during the just a little care, these communities flourish. mobile internet age and the apps that drive it.
UP FRONT opinion
Can Love Transcend The Barriers of Race, Class and Religion? YES
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By Auma Atsango
y virtue of the vast distance-- geographical, economical and cultural-- between our two worlds, it could be argued that our meeting was an accident of fate. Statistically, we were never meant to meet at all. And yet we did, and not just that, we liked and then loved each other. That in itself teaches me innumerable things about the human condition. I find it necessary to return to this lesson whenever I despair about the world. I remember that the human heart responds to the human heart, and that ultimately, sincere love for fellow human being is not only possible but is also necessary, and that it can and indeed does conquer all. Every day together is an incredible journey. We are constantly learning each other, discovering the various colours of the lenses through which we see the world, and understanding the ways in which the places we come from have shaped us into the people that we are. Our relationship is a cultural exchange. Every day,
we encounter the nuances of each other’s worlds. In that way, we engage with our respective historical legacies. I find that being with my partner has taught me much more about the part of the world he comes from than all my years at school ever did. Our joys, sorrows and concerns for our own countries take on more personal meaning for the other than would have been the case. We not only sympathise with each other’s people but empathise too. The cultural exchange that occurs in our relationship also involves culinary and linguistic exploration. He makes a decent mukimo, and I can fumble about a schnitzel, and while at it, we laugh at how oddly the other’s language feels inside our mouths. We try, and each day, we learn new things from each other. And when we walk down the street and encounter distasteful comments, we also learn the meaning of patience and understanding. These are the little things I love about being in an interracial relationship.
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By Suzie Gathigia
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what are the chances of meeting the President’s son if you stay at Dandora? I shall leave that to you to ponder. People meet potential partners at school, work, and social gatherings and as such, it is more probable that you will find love at these places with people who are at the same level as you. Seldom have I encountered the “let me upgrade you” instances... unless the social class gap is relatively small. In the alternative, the circumstances dictate, “the rich marry the rich” and the cycle of “poverty” continues. It is imperative therefore, that people pair with mates who get “approval” from their loved ones which implies those who are most similar to them in class and race. Family and friend’s opinion matters, even though most people will vehemently deny the effect of opinion of family on a potential mate. The numbers of love-birds who have overcome differences of race and class are not convincing enough to support the notion that these barriers can be overcome. As such and in conclusion, I wear my “doubting-Thomas” hat and I until I have evidence contrary to my theory, I shall remain reluctant to support the theory that love can overcome differences in race and social class. LO
ove comes from a sense of belonging, familiarity, acceptance and security. This is not easily achieved with crossrace, religion and social class. The term that best describes this phenomenon is homogamy. Homogamy has been defined as “marriage between individuals who are similar to each other and is based mostly on socioeconomic status, class, ethinicity, or religion”. Socialization tends to support the theory that people who are similar in religion, class, gender or culture tend to socialize with one another. Therefore, objectively speaking, people are more likely to love and end up with people who belong to their class, race, religion or educational background. Most marriages are also mostly between members of the same racial group. According to an extensive study done by Kevin Lewis of University of California, San Diego, people date within their race for fear they are not attractive to other races. Reaching out to someone of a different ethnic background may be awkward because of the “pre-emptive discrimination”. This is based on the way race has shaped peoples’ lives and of course same-race relationships are more harmonious for the very reason that you have someone who shares your heritage. Someone would ask, what are the chances of finding love across social class…well my answer would be “very slim”. Look at it this way,
UP FRONT
UP FRONT arts and culture
An Interview with John Kamicha Runda Groove Sessions
Clockwise from Bottom 1.Sole Dall’Oro and Valentina Suave 2.Dj Zelalem and Rohini Das 3.Dj Momo 4.Antonio Aranha Menezes 5.Vanessa Mwangale and Barbara Nkatha
The Media Immersion Mixology Contest
From Top - Bottom 1. Tim Judge showcase, winners mixing kit 2. Judges during the mixologist contest 3. Cheptoek Boyo prepares a cocktail drink 4. Andrew Kilonzo (Sales Director KBL), present a gift to Mike Makori. Makori was among the winning Team. Other winners were Emmanuel, Gachiri, Mutegi and Wamboi 5. Agnes Adera, Charles Weru (EABL), Dan Angima (EABL) and Elyane Okara of Mashariki Mix
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June 2014
By Liz Maelane
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ohn Kamicha, a local artist who, in April, had an artwork taken down from an exhibition at Alliance Francaise, is sitting beside me, typing. It is lunchtime in the back garden at Kuona Trust. The place is buzzing with creative banter and the stocky fragrance of beef stew. Kamicha finishes up, and we begin discussing the controversial work entitled: Sexual Retreat. He tells me he made most of his money doing portraits of animals and experimenting with color, texture and pattern. This piece was his first serious exploration of a topic that is sensitive to many: religion. The striking work depicts Jesus Christ indulging in sex and other debaucheries. Well aware of the difficult subject matter, John actually enforced a self-censorship of sorts by deciding to keep the work safe in his studio after its completion. “I had been thinking about Sexual Retreat for years and had actually completed the work before we decided on the theme of the exhibition,” Kamicha explains. Back in the 90’s, he started to spend time with a group of Rastafarians. Apart from the expected activities one engages in with Rastafarians, they were surrounded by a vast array of spiritual-themed books. It was during this time that Kamicha “had his faith shaken” and was plaguedby questions he read from Egyptology literature and alternative theories about Jesus. Kamicha was particularly interested in the symbol of the cross and who Jesus, the man, really was. People - like the French student/instigator who alerted the management at Alliance of the “blasphemy” being hung in the foyer,
often believe artists like John Kamicha to be intentionally disrespectful. Kamicha however believes that art is a way of answering questions. “Sometimes in life you’ll have burning questions that nobody can answer for you. So you express your feelings the best way you know how.” He sees an artwork as a time capsule for “the emotions you felt at that point in your life. Your ideas may grow and change but that is just a reminder of who you were. Nothing more.” Kamicha enjoys experimenting with different media and although the bulk of his work has been painting, he found that using collage “would have more of an impact because the images are real-life cut-outs and not from my imagination.” Upon seeing the work, one understands the choice and also why it was so risky. Kamicha considers the artist’s responsibility to be a mirror for society. “If people have a problem with anything, I believe that problem starts from within and then moves out. I just wish that people would come and discuss their concerns with me directly.” The reasons for censorship of a work be it a film, song, article or artwork, are “plenty”. However, the root of these millions of reasons is some kind of fear: fear of civil revolt, fear of citizens engaging in illicit substances, fear of children experimenting with sexuality, etc. Conveniently though, nobody really chooses to see it that way. The word fear hardly appears in matters of censorship and banning, only the concept of what is “morally” and “ethically” correct. Works such as Sexual Retreat may be perceived as offensive and blasphemous but it is not as though Kamicha created the subject matter itself, artists never do. They simply draw from what surrounds them, inviting us to engage and debate. What we see in the mirror can sometimes be grotesque. We tend to react very harshly to things that make us uncomfortable or insecure. This can be seen throughout the history of media censorship, not just in Kenya, but also across the globe. Artists like Kamicha are choosing to shy away from generic fabric paintings of skinny Maasai migrating across the desert. Instead they are confronting difficult topics in order to produce innovative and provocative work. Having a bit of courage to be curious instead of defensive will be crucial to raising the standard of our work and re-defining the stereotypical idea of African art. Maybe, we should start by being less afraid of canvas on a wall. Maybe, censorship does a lot more harm than presumed.
Censorship in Kenya 1990 - Journalists tortured and jailed for engaging with media that “misrepresents” the government. The Nation Newspaper was banned from covering parliamentary matters. 1998 - The book, Quotations From Chairman Mao Tse-Tung– former leader of China’s Communist Party—banned for fear of inciting civil unrest amongst citizens. 2001 - Eric Wainaina’s debut hit single Nchi ya Kitu Kidogo— meaning Country of Bribes-- gets banned from national radio. May 2009 - Otto: The Blood Bath, Kenya’s first horror film, is banned before national release for being too gory and violent. May 2012 - Paradise: Love, featuring Kenyan actors, a film about European women in their 60’s seeking young love on the Kenyan coast, is banned.
www.upnairobi.com 7
June 2014
WHAT'S UP J Editor’s Picks
une is the month for appreciating fathers and the various roles they play in our lives. Different from moms, dads aren’t all that interested in the pink, fluffy and fabulous. On the contrary, they are quite content with a beer, a good game on the TV or an outdoor activity of some sort. Luckily, Nairobi is a good place to be this month, offering you a variety of ventures to get up to with the Papa Bear. We would probably be chastised if we didn’t mention the one thing that will have global attention this month: the 2014 Fifa World Cup, which kicks off with a heated Brazil vs. Croatia on June 12th. Due to a substantial time difference, many of the games will unfortunately be late at night or in the early AMs—not that that’s going to hold anyone back from fully engaging in football festivities. Whether it’s a big screen at a rowdy bar or a cosy couch situation at home with friends and family, make sure you find the time to indulge in a match or two. We’ll be keeping an eye on what local football fans get up to in and around the city. Consult our World Cup Bar Guide for more details on where to go. On June 14th, head over to Alliance Française where they will play host to the 2009 world Beatboxing champions: Under Kontrol, featuring local Hip Hop group Siri Kali. Taking dad to any Hip Hop-related event might seem strange, but witnessing the human mouth explicitly replicate instruments and funky rhythms is a unique circumstance and grants an exception being made. If you’re tired of the average outdoor sport, why not try something that incorporates competition, splattered paint, sundowners, good music and nature all in one? On the 28th, take a trip down to Fisherman’s Camp, Naivasha for a day of fun, sun and serious rivalry at the Four Now Paintball Party! A final reminder that Father’s Day falls on Sunday June 15th and that whatever you decide to do, dramatic or not, make sure you take the time to show dad some well-deserved love.
FIFA World Cup 2014
Under Kontrol
Father’s Day
Paintball www.upnairobi.com 9
June 2014
WHAT'S UP
EXHIBITIONS
WHAT'S UP
7th
UP LIVE III MUSIC , ART AND CULTURE NAIROBI RAILWAYS MUSEUM An explosion of rhythm, colour, and creativity, this year’s UP Live III, marks UP Magazine’s 3rd-Year Anniversary. Taking place in the antiquated train yards of the Nairobi Railway Museum, UP Live is a unique blend of art, music, film and great food, providing an aesthetically stimulating setting for the latest in arts and culture in Nairobi. UP Live III takes place on the 7th of June. It kicks off at 3.00 p.m. and tickets are KES 1000. For more info, visit www. upnairobi.com
7th
FASHION WEEKEND KILELESHWA FASHION TULIPS RESTAURANT The coolest freshest designers showcase beautiful elements of fashion and art. Hang out with Kileleshwas fashionistas and promore the community from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The weekend provides a platform for socializing and business networkng in an urban open air market. For more info, email fashionweekendkileleshwa@gmail. com, or call +254 865 694
8th
TODAY’S SEEDLING, TOMORROW’S TREE NATURE KARURA FOREST Join hands with Young Jains Nairobi to come together & mark Environment Day 2014. Tree planting from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and educational forest walk from 10:30 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. Donate Trees: 1 tree at KES 400, 2 trees at KES 800, 5 trees at KES 2,000 and 10 trees at KES 4,000. The participation fee for children is KES 150; and adults KES 300 (Includes walk fee & snacks). Participation is by registration only! For more info, and to register, email treefootprint@gmail.com or call +254 733 809 896.
8th
JUNE 5TH - JUNE 15TH FROM THE VAULT: METAMORPHOSIS OF COLOUR EXHIBITION KUONA TRUST Onkoba Ongeri’s inspiration for the works came from day-to-day encounters with life: the struggle, hustle and beauty of it. The art is colored by the optimism of the human soul as it struggles to achieve something greater. The title, From The Vault, implies the situation under which the paintings were created: the artist created them upon returning from his day-job as a banker. Opening cocktail is on June 5th, the show runs until June 15th.
The ‘Marie Pierre Kenya Wine Club’ is monthly event that takes place on the first Saturday of each month; aimed at bringing together wine lovers who wish to learn more. The event will give those in attendance a platform to know more about the various wines in the market. With MC Kobi Kihara and Music by String trio from the Nairobi Orchestra as well as DJ Somi the evening will be memorable. Tickets are KES 1000 in advance and KES 1200 at the gate. For more information; please email us on: info@mariepierreke.com or call +254 735 222 903
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SLAM AFRICA POETRY PAWA 254 It’s back! Slam Africa is a poetry slam competition happening every 2nd Sunday of the month at Pawa254. It aims to nurture young poets and writers, create great performers, empower and educate others, and propel the poetry and spoken word industry to grow bigger and better.
MARIE PIERRE KENYA WINE CLUB WINE KARURA FOREST, KIAMBU
10th
AZUL OSCURO CASI NEGRO FILM EMBASSY OF SPAIN The Spanish drama, directed by Daniel Sánchez, translates to Dark Blue Almost Black. It describes the dilemma of a man whose infertile brother asks him to impregnate his imprisoned girlfriend. The films at the Embassy are shown free of charge and all films are in Spanish with subtitles in English. For more info, email emb.nairobi@maec.es or cal +254 20 272 0222
12th
WORLD CUP BRAZIL 2014 SPORTS BREW BISTRO AND LOUNGE
14th
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PAWA 254 FILM FORUM SCREENING AND DISCUSSION PAWA 254 The Pawa 254 Film Forum is committed to showcasing Brew Bistro makes your World Cup special with special brew, extended happy hour every Sunday, Monday & Tuesday from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Not to mention the food specials, and World Cup shooter countdown every Friday & Saturday. For more info, contact info@ thebigfivebreweries.com or visit http://www.thebigfivebreweries. com/
independently produced, often non- commercial work that has little opportunity of reaching the general public. The forum allows you to connect with other professionals, filmmakers, enthusiasts and students, as well as discuss productions, quality, and all aspects of the films and how they affect society and influence the artistic imagination. It takes place every Wednesday from 6:00pm to 8:30pm. Entry is free.
12th
THURSDAY NIGHT LIVE FT MICHEL ONGARO LIVE MUSIC CHOICES, BARICHO ROAD Inspired by diverse musical styles from artists like Cesaria Evora and Bing Crosby, Michel Ongaro offers a fresh blend of diverse international sounds with an African influence. Entry is free. Show begins at 8:00pm.
to express their thoughts and speak their minds, strictly off the record, about various issues that affect our modern day society. It is aimed at helping participants transform into more tolerant, enlightened, critical and active agents of social change who can positively influence their communities. It takes place every Tuesday from 5:30pm to 8:00pm. Entry is free.
6th-13th
FATUMA’S VOICE PAWA 254 Fatuma’s Voice continues its efforts to promote performance art and poetry each Friday of this month. Beyond just getting together and sharing music and words, the aim of the event is to encourage young people to know how to earn their self-esteem, improve their talents, be responsible citizens and to make them understand the value of networking. This is achieved through poetry, live music, motivational talks, and open forum discussions. The session run from 4:00 – 7:00pm. Entry is KES100.
UNDER KONTROL LIVE MUSIC ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE AUDITORIUM Kicking off at 7:00 p.m. the 2009 World Champions of Beat Boxing, Under Kontrol, promise an explosive performance and will be joined by the Kenyan hip hop group ‘Sirikali’ in an afternoon of beatboxing, the art of making beats and scratches with your mouth. They are on a Panafrican tour, crisscrossing 22 African countries supported by the Institut Français (The French International Agency for Cultural Cooperation). Enjoy great beatboxing by the celebrated group. Entry is free. For more info, email cultural@alliancefrnairobi.org
15th
YADDON KI BAARAT LIVE MUSIC JALARAM TEMPLE Mehul & Sailesh Savani and Seema & Snehar Shah present Yaadon ki Baarat.Enchanting melodies from yesteryears with renowned singers from Mumbai Shailaja Subramanian & Chirag Panchal accompanied by musicians from Mumbai. The concert is in support of Jalaram Medical Services and starts at 7:00 p.m. For more info, call +254 203 515 953 or emal nisha@ jalaramnairobi.org
KARURA FOREST MTB ITT SPORTS KARURA FOREST A fun mountain bike event in Karura Forest. It’s an individual 25km Time Trial so you’re riding against yourself! Meeting point is Limuru Road Gate, from 9:00 a.m. Entry is KES 1000/= For more info, call +254 703 524 823 or email nncckenya@gmail.com
17th
OFF THE RECORD DEBATE AND DISCUSSION PAWA 254 This weekly event unites people from different backgrounds in order
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19th
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Having recently launched her new album “Fenamanon”, Fena Gitu is fast becoming one of Nairobi’s most popular live acts. If afrohouse, soul, hip hop and reggae is what you’re after; you’ll be sure to get it all and more in one very memorable performance. Entry is free. Show begins at 8:00pm.
19th
TEN CITIES SCREENING SERIES – GOOD COPY BAD COPY FILM GOETHE-INSTITUT AUDITORIUM
14th
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WHAT'S UP
EXHIBITIONS
6TH JUNE OPEN SHOW NAIROBI FILM AND PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION PAWA 254 Back for the fifth time, Open Show is a FREE social screenings where the public can see compelling work and interact directly with photographers, filmmakers and multimedia producers in highprofile spaces. 5 curated presenters (from students to professionals) have 10 minutes each to show a 20 image or 3-8 minute video project with audience questions and feedback. You can submit your work here: openshow.org/ submissions/. The Show begins at 7:00pm.
JUNE 26TH – JULY 25TH UN.KNOWN SPACES EXHIBITION GOETHE-INSTITUT AUDITORIUM The art project UN.KNOWN SPACES has been developed as an integral part of the larger scale scientific research project “Knowledge through Art”, funded by the FWF (Austrian Science Fund). The two German artists, Janina Janke and Maurice de Martin, focused on the three United Nations headquarters cities: Vienna, New York, and Nairobi. From 2011 onwards, they collected a total of 66 interviews from the three headquarters conducted with a wide spectrum of UN staff and people from the “outside”. The artwork is a telling in these gathered personal life stories. Exhibition opening is on June 26th at 7:00pm. Entry is free.
WHAT'S UP
20th
THE BOOTH NIGHT OUT THE QUINS BAR
Join DJ Somi & DJ Panik every 3rd Friday of the month at the Booth as they take you on a musical journey. The dynamic duo will ‘dial’ through their musical archives, attending to your musical needs at the booth with afro, soulful, deep, tech and tribal. For more info, check out The Booth Facebook event page.
21st
LUSOPHONE FILM FESTIVAL 4TH EDITION FILM GOETHE-INSTITUT AUDITORIUM The fourth edition of the Lusophone Film Fest is dedicated to the diversity of documentary production in the Portuguesespeaking countries. This session will showcase Hereros Angola, a documentary on an isolated tribe from the southwest of Angola by Brazilian photographer and filmmaker Sérgio Guerra. Screening is at 3:00pm. Visit www.facebook. com/lusophonefilmfest for more information.
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SUNGLASSES AT NIGHT NIGHT OUT TREE HOUSE CLUB NAIROBI
AFRO JAZZ NIGHT FT LULU AND THE ZAKALEO BAND LIVE MUSIC ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE
The proceeds from the play will go towards implementing Flone Initiative gender equality program and ensuring its long term sustainability. For more info, visit http://www.onebillionrising.org
28th
FOUR NOW PAINTBALL TOURNAMENT PAINTBALL AND PARTY FISHERMAN’S CAMP, NAIVASHA
you wait for it from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. It’s a great event to meet with people and experience an unparalleled club event. Bringing you the finest in techno, jungle, dancehall, trance, progressive trap, urban, hip-hop, kwaito, house and dance music the night should not be missed. Entry is KES 300. For more info, visit uptown@live.com or call +254 727 362 224
If you’re interested in participating send your poems or short stories to: amkaspace@yahoo.com.
30th
LOLA KENYA SCREEN FILM FORUM FILM AND DISCUSSION GOETHE-INSTITUT AUDITORIUM
24th
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FÊTE DE LA MUSIQUE (WORLD MUSIC DAY) LIVE MUSIC ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE AUDITORIUM
6:AM Entertainment present an all night dancing bonanza to the best Electronic Dance Music in East Africa. DJ’s for the night will be the original heavyweights: DJ Barney Barrow, DJ K, Mikhail Kuzi, DJ Drazen, and Sean Fraser. For more info, check out the 6:AM Facebook events page. Nairobi joins over 450 cities around the world in marking this day. Ghetto Classics, Kiu, Octave and the one and only Anto Neosoul are among the artists set to perform on this occasion. Launched in 1982 by the French Ministry for culture, the Fête de la Musique is held in more than a hundred countries in Europe and over the world. It takes place every 21st June, the day of the summer solstice in the northern hemisphere. Celebrate music at Alliance Française. Entry is free. For more info, email cultural@ alliancefrnairobi.org
24th
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DAY FUSION II: X-TREAM PARTY 2014 NIGHT OUT SECRETS LOUNGE Meet Mingle & Groove M.M.G taking place in August will be epic. This Pre-party will entertain you as
www.upnairobi.com 12 June 2014
MATAHARIS FILM EMBASSY OF SPAIN The 2007 film, directed by Iciar Bollain, follows the lives of three surveillance specialists at a detective agency as they investigate, answer questions, and remain clueless about confronting their own secrets. Show starts at 5:00 p.m. The films at the Embassy are shown free of charge and all films are in Spanish with subtitles in English. For more info, email emb. nairobi@maec.es or cal +254 20 272 0222
24th
THURSDAY NIGHT LIVE FT MUMALA LIVE MUSIC CHOICES, BARICHO ROAD Kenya is no stranger to remarkably strong and talented R&B singers. Mumala is no exception in this regard. Having had her voice described as the “perfect marriage between Asa, India Arie and Jill Scott”, the powerful harmonies from this soulful songstress will be sure to keep you moving and leave you moved. Entry is free. Show begins at 8:00pm.
Various artists across genres fell in love with Lulu’s music, they formed the Zakaleo Band to support his vision and style. Together as Lulu and the Zakaleo Band, they are packed with a diverse fusion of world music such as African classical, Lingala rumba, Caribbean, Reggae, Rock, Mbalak, Kwaito, and Benga. Enjoy their fire and talent for KES500 at the gate, and KES400 in advance.
27th
THE GOOD BODY THEATRE MICHAEL JOSEPH CENTRE The Eve Ensler’s play “The Good Body” aims to uplift and to empower as it entertains. The play softens the ever-fraught relationship between women and their bodies, explores destructive body esteem issues and leads towards finding beauty in imperfection. We will be hosting the play at Micheal Joseph Centre on 27th June 2014 at 7.00p.m. and 28th June at 3.00p.m. & 6.00p.m. Mbeki Mwalimu of Festival of Creative Arts (FCA) is the Play’s Producer.
WORLD CUP GETAWAY Mount Kenya Safari Club Special Spend an afternoon shooting paint-filled pellets at your friends in an intense competition that will be held at Fisherman’s camp on the banks of Lake Naivasha. After the games, kick back for sundowners at the bar with a drink in your hand and then get ready to boogie the night away to the beats of DJ Momo and Mr Sean. Event starts at 12:00pm.
28th
STORIES SPOKEN – LITERATURE FORUM BOOK READINGS GOETHE-INSTITUT AUDITORIUM In association with AMKA – Space for Women’s Creativity— the Goethe-Institut presents a forum for upcoming women writers and literary critics to share and discuss stories, poems and current literature trends with the aim of enhancing their creativity. The forum takes place every last Saturday of the month and is open to both men and women.
Lola Kenya Screen Film Forum is a discussion platform aimed at critiquing, encouraging and exploring ways of how to integrate film production in Kenya and Eastern Africa with other sociocultural and economic sectors in order to come up with a vibrant film industry. We watch and discuss short films from Eastern Africa, exchange ideas and network every last Monday of the month. Contact director@lolakenyascreen.org if you’re interested in attending the monthly forum.
www.upnairobi.com 13 June 2014
Bring your team of 8 friends or family to view the games in the privacy of your own cottages, our World Cup Package includes: *one night’s stay for a maximum 8 people in two William Holden Cottages *Full Board in Tusks Restaurant *Afternoon tea & selection of dry snacks and 48 Tuskers served in cottage *20% discount on Spa treatments for ladies *Taxes and service charge Package is USD$2,014.00 per night, valid 12 June to 13 July, 2014, based on availability. For reservations call +254 20 2265555 or e-mail kenya. reservations@fairmont.com.
UP TOWN blogging
Shouting from the Laptops Kenyan Bloggers find their Voice
Following the announcement of the winners of this year’s BAKE blogging awards, we contacted some of Kenya’s key bloggers to find out what makes them tick By Ondi Madete
THE AGORA 1.What is The Agora? Tell us about your last blog post. The Agora, taken from the Ancient Greek word for “gathering place”, is a blog about history, art and culture. My last blog post was titled: The men of the man eaters. I wanted to tell the story of the man eating lions of Tsavo from a different perspective: much is known about the infamous man eating lions but very little about the men who were actually eaten. 2.Where do you get your inspiration from? I believe that everyone has a story to tell and each individual’s story is as unique and equally as important as the next. So it is these forgotten stories and experiences that I seek to keep alive through the blog. For me history is not just about past events, or about kings and queens, it’s about the ordinary men and women whose experiences and decisions have shaped today as we know it. 3.Who are you talking to in The Agora, who is your target audience? I target both the old and the young; those who were lucky enough to witness historical events and those who just like me can only imagine how things used to be. 4.What would you like to achieve with The Agora?
I would like to create awareness about issues pertaining to our history and culture, two aspects which are often neglected or taken to be of less importance. Where you are coming from is just as important than where you are going. I’d love to see people share and appreciate their stories, those of their grandparents and of their great grandparents. Memories and experiences are there to be shared, to be passed on and to be treasured. PIKA CHAKULA
proudly held the title of “Best Food Blog in Kenya” for 2 consecutive years. Our last blog post was a recipe for “Beef Samosa’s” (http:// pikachakula.com/recipe/beef-samosas) 2. Where do you get your inspiration? My brother was a foodie. He loved trying different cuisines and eating all sorts of different meat. He would give everything a taste. Fortunately, our mother is an excellent cook and she is our biggest inspiration. We also have a family business called C & R Food Industries Ltd, which manufactures all kinds of snacks and a range of frozen food items- I guess it runs in the family. 3. Who are you talking to in Pika Chakula, who is your target audience? At Pika Chakula, we get a lot of international traffic although we are mainly targeting Kenyans. Male or female, old or young, everyone loves food. And we are here to show them how easy it is to cook food. You don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to serve a tasty looking meal: Pika Chakula will guide you all the way .
UP TOWN it important to constantly feed my mind with interesting, creative images. I often draw my inspiration from that and the things that surround me.
number of people who enjoy reading about my misfortunes! I am completely in love with Doris, even though I do not think I exist because she has never replied any of my 300 letters. 2.Where do you get your inspiration? Dear Doris is inspired by my misfortunes that are abnormally numerous. If you dwell on your own misfortunes you will realise how numerous they are as well. No matter how small or insignificant! 3.Who are you talking to in Dear Doris, who is your target audience? My target reader is anyone who needs a good laugh at my problems. People who need to confirm there is someone out there who is probably going through more crap than them and laughing about it! Also for the big girls out there who need to be reminded of how beautiful they are. 4.What would you like to achieve with Dear Doris? I wish to encourage people who go through tough times and to remind big girls of how HOT they are...
THIS IS ESS 1.What is This Is Ess? What did you last blog about? My blog is a platform that I use to share my personal style and other lifestyle interests with my readers. I’m so lucky that I get to do what I love everyday and that I get to work with creative minds every day, my photographer, Victor Peace, being one of them. My last post was a fun reference to Olivia Pope played by Kerry Washington in Scandal! 2.Where do you get your inspiration from? I’m constantly visiting my favourite personal style blogs and fashion magazines since I find
5.What would you like to achieve with Pika Chakula? Having travelled quite a bit, I believe here in Kenya we have the best foods and as the online world advances, we would like to take it to that. We will be conducting cookery classes very soon and in the near future you will be seeing Pika Chakula on TV.
1.What is Pika Chakula? What did you last post about? “Pika Chakula” is a Swahili word that directly translates to “cook food”. We showcase recipes of different types of cuisines from around the world but using ingredients that are available locally. Pikachakula.com was launched on 9th May 2011 by my brother, Mr. Rajan Solanki (victim of the Westage Mall Attack) with the aim of improving skills in the kitchen. We currently have over 5000 recipes (Baking, Vegetarian, Non-vegetarian, Drinks, Baby foods etc) on our website. You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter where we post at least 20-25 recipes daily. Pika Chakula has www.upnairobi.com 14 June 2014
DEAR DORIS 1.What is Dear Doris? What was your last blog post about? Dear Doris is about my letters to Doris, who is a thick n’ curvy woman who has tiny feet and long lustrous jet black hair that plays on her behind as she walks. They are random letters that relay my everyday misfortunes! I am absolutely amazed by the www.upnairobi.com 15 June 2014
3.Who are you talking to in This Is Ess, who is your target audience? My largest audience is women who are interested in fashion and perhaps would like to get ideas on how to work with different items that they probably have in their wardrobe. I’d also like to think that my blog appeals to those interested in art or photography and for that reason I work closely with Victor to make sure that the images are always crisp, interesting and have a creative element to them. 4.What would you like to achieve with This Is Ess? My goal is to scale into several other platforms where I can share my style, beauty and lifestyle tips including YouTube and maybe even TV at some point. Hoping to get things going in that direction this year!
UP TOWN
NAIROBI WORLD CUP BARS Bem-Vindo Ao Brasil!!!
AQUEOUS BAR www.aqueous.mobi
NATIVES
This World Cup, UP MAGAZINE is bringing you the two biggest games of the season - the opening game and the finals, in conjunction with Spice Roots and Carnivore. We invite you to join us at these games for some real Brazilian flavour. Expect to be entertained with Capoeira, Brazilian dancers, drummers and of course, Brazilian cocktails. Both these events are sponsored by HAVAIANAS who will be giving out lots of free merchandise and certainly a pair of flip-flops or two! There’s no other place to be than with UP Magazine, Havaianas, Spice Roots and Carnivore during this World Cup ... so make sure you go onto www.upnairobi.com, our FB page or follow us on Twitter to get the updates.
20 4
UP MAGAZINE WORLD CUP PULL-OUT
UP and Havaianas bring you a Special World Cup Promotion. See inside for more details. TIME: 24HR FORMAT
Hire an Aqueous bar complete with mixologists, canapes and personalised menus and enjoy the World Cup in the safety and comfort of your own home. First round of 10 Caipirinhas for each booking are on the house this year as we celebrate the Copa being in Brasil! Call Brian on 0721 986873 for bookings.
SPICE ROOTS
GROUP A 12 BRAZIL CROATIA 13 MEXICO CAMEROON 17 BRAZIL MEXICO 18 CAMEROON CROATIA 23 CAMEROON BRAZIL 23 CROATIA MEXICO
GROUP C 14 COLOMBIA GREECE 14 CÔTE D’IVOIRE JAPAN 19 COLOMBIA CÔTE D’IVOIRE 19 JAPAN GREECE 24 JAPAN COLOMBIA 24 GREECE CÔTE D’IVOIRE
GROUP B 13 SPAIN NETHERLANDS 13 CHILE AUSTRALIA
GROUP D 14 URUGUAY COSTA RICA 14 ENGLAND ITALY 19 URUGUAY ENGLAND 20 ITALY COSTA RICA 24 ITALY URUGUAY 24 COSTA RICA ENGLAND
MATCH: 1 DAY: THUR TIME: 23:00 VENUE: SAO PAULO
JUNE 2014
Located along Thika road, Natives Sports Bar and Grill now introduces our finger licking pallet watering buffet between 12pm-4pm every weekday”. We also do office deliveries upon request.
CARNIVORE’S SIMBA SALOON
MATCH: 2 DAY: FRI TIME: 19:00 VENUE: NATAL
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 17 DAY: TUE TIME: 22:00 VENUE: FORTALEZA
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 18 DAY: WED TIME: 00:00 VENUE: MANAUS
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 33 DAY: MON TIME: 23:00 VENUE: BRASILIA
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 34 DAY: MON TIME: 23:00 VENUE: RECIFE
JUNE 2014
OPENING GAME: BRAZIL VS CROATIA Kick off this World Cup season at Spice roots in partnership with UP Magazine and Havaianas. Offering a unique variety of dining experiences, Spice Roots specializes in authentic North Indian delicacies. Not only can you sample the tasty specialties, you can also try out your hand in their Bandas. Spice Roots provides all ingredients including their spices for you to cook with on Jikos. Join us on the 12th of June as we celebrate this World cup season with great food, drink and Brazilian flair. Located on Forest Road, Sikh Union club. Banda reservations a must! Please call, 0722583562 or 0722376362 Date: 12th June 2014 Venue: Spice Roots Time: 2300 www.upnairobi.com 16 June 2014
MATCH: 3 DAY: FRI TIME: 22:00 VENUE: SALVADOR
JUNE 2014
Catch the World Cup final at Carnivore in partnership with UP Magazine and Havaianas. Come and experience a taste of Brazil at the newly revamped Simba Saloon where you can enjoy the game at the new Smirnoff Bar fully kitted with HD screens. Throughout the World Cup season, local beers @ Kshs. 250/-, with special buy 5 for the price of 4 Beer Bucket Promos. Capoeira, caipirinhas and fantastic offers and discounts on food. Please call, 0722 204647/8 Date: 13th July 2014 Venue: Carnivore Time: 2200
JUNE 2014
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 21 DAY: THUR TIME: 19:00 VENUE: BRASILIA
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 22 DAY: THUR TIME: 01:00 VENUE: NATAL
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 37 DAY: TUE TIME: 23:00 VENUE: CUIABA
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 38 DAY: TUE TIME: 23:00 VENUE: FORTALEZA
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 7 DAY: SAT TIME: 22:00 VENUE: FORTALEZA
MATCH: 8 DAY: SAT TIME: 24:00 VENUE: MANAUS
JUNE 2014
18 SPAIN CHILE 18 AUSTRALIA NETHERLANDS 23 AUSTRALIA SPAIN 23 NETHERLANDS CHILE
MATCH: 19 DAY: WED TIME: 22:00 VENUE: RIO DE JANEIRO
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 20 DAY: WED TIME: 19:00 VENUE: PORTO ALEGRE
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 35 DAY: MON TIME: 19:00 VENUE: CURITIBA
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 36 DAY: MON TIME: 19:00 VENUE: SAO PAULO
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 6 DAY: SAT TIME: 04:00 VENUE: RECIFE
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 4 DAY: FRI TIME: 01:00 VENUE: CUIABA
WORLD CUP FINALS
MATCH: 5 DAY: SAT TIME: 19:00 VENUE: BELO HORIZONTE
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 23 DAY: THUR TIME: 22:00 VENUE: SAO PAULO
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 24 DAY: FRI TIME: 19:00 VENUE: RECIFE
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 39 DAY: TUE TIME: 19:00 VENUE: NATAL
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 40 DAY: TUE TIME: 19:00 VENUE: BELO HORIZONTE
JUNE 2014
www.upnairobi.com 17 June 2014
OPENING GAME
BRAZIL VS CROATIA Kick off this World Cup season at Spice roots in partnership with UP Magazine and Havaianas. Offering a unique variety of dining experiences, Spice Roots specializes in authentic North Indian delicacies. Not only can you sample the tasty specialties, you can also try out your hand in their Bandas. Spice Roots provides all ingredients including their spices for you to cook with on Jikos. Join us on the 12th of June as we celebrate this World cup season with great food, drink and Brazilian flair. Banda reservations a must! Please call, 0722583562 or 0722376362 Date: 12th June 2014 Venue: Spice Roots, Forest Road, Sikh Union club.
20 4 ROUND OF 16
1A [49] 28/06 7PM 2B
QUARTER FINALS
SEMI FINALS
W57
W54
W59
[64] 13/07 10PM
W60
W58 L61 [63] 12/07 11PM
QUARTER FINALS
ROUND OF 16
W51
1B [51] 29/06 7PM 2A
[59] 05/07 11PM W52
1D [52] 29/06 11PM 2C
W55
1F [55] 01/07 7PM 2E
[62] 09/07 11PM
W62
W53 [58] 04/07 7PM
1G [54] 30/06 11PM 2H
SEMI FINALS
W61
W50
[61] 08/07 11PM 1E [53] 30/06 7PM 2F
FINALS
W49 [57] 04/07 11PM
1C [50] 28/06 11PM 2D
Road to the Finals with UP and Havaianas WORLD CUP PULL-OUT
[60] 05/07 7PM W56
1H [56] 01/07 11PM 2G
L62
Time: 2300
www.upnairobi.com 18 June 2014
www.upnairobi.com 19 June 2014
FINALS
UP Magazine, Carnivore and Havaianas bring you the World Cup Finals at the newly revamped SImba Saloon. Come and experience a taste of Brazil where you can enjoy the game at the new Smirnoff Bar fully kitted with HD screens. Throughout the World Cup season, local beers @ Kshs. 250/-, with a special Buy 5 for the price of 4 Beer Bucket Promo. Capoeira, caipirinhas, drummers, dancers and fantastic offers on food. You can’t miss the World Cup finals at Carnivore! Make sure you book, call 0722 204647/8 Date: 13th July 2014 Venue: Carnivore Time: 2200
UP TOWN
TIME: 24HR FORMAT
GROUP E 15 SWITZERLAND ECUADOR 15 FRANCE HONDURAS 20 SWITZERLAND FRANCE 20 HONDURAS ECUADOR 25 HONDURAS SWITZERLAND 25 ECUADOR FRANCE
GROUP G 16 GERMANY PORTUGAL 16 GHANA USA 21 GERMANY GHANA 22 USA PORTUGAL 26 USA GERMANY 26 PORTUGAL GHANA
GROUP F 15 ARGENTINA BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA 16 IRAN NIGERIA 21 ARGENTINA IRAN 21 NIGERIA BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA 25 NIGERIA ARGENTINA 25 BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA IRAN
GROUP H 17 BELGIUM ALGERIA 17 RUSSIA KOREA REPUBLIC 22 BELGIUM RUSSIA 22 KOREA REPUBLIC ALGERIA 26 KOREA REPUBLIC BELGIUM 26 ALGERIA RUSSIA
MATCH: 9 DAY: SUN TIME: 19:00 VENUE: BRASILIA
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 10 DAY: SUN TIME: 22:00 VENUE: PORTO ALEGRE
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 25 DAY: FRI TIME: 22:00 VENUE: SALVADOR
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 26 DAY: FRI TIME: 01:00 VENUE: CURITIBA
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 41 DAY: WED TIME: 22:00 VENUE: MANAUS
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 42 DAY: WED TIME: 23:00 VENUE: RIO DE JANEIRO
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 11 DAY: SUN TIME: 01:00 VENUE: RIO DE JANEIRO
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 12 DAY: MON TIME: 22:00 VENUE: CURITIBA
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 27 DAY: SAT TIME: 19:00 VENUE: BELO HORIZONTE
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 28 DAY: SAT TIME: 01:00 VENUE: CUIABA
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 43 DAY: WED TIME: 19:00 VENUE: PORTO ALEGRE
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 44 DAY: WED TIME: 19:00 VENUE: SALVADOR
JUNE 2014
www.upnairobi.com 20 June 2014
MATCH: 13 DAY: MON TIME: 19:00 VENUE: SALVADOR
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 14 DAY: MON TIME: 01:00 VENUE: NATAL
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 29 DAY: SAT TIME: 22:00 VENUE: FORTALEZA
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 30 DAY: SUN TIME: 00:00 VENUE: MANAUS
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 45 DAY: THUR TIME: 19:00 VENUE: RECIFE
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 46 DAY: THUR TIME: 19:00 VENUE: BRASILIA
JUNE 2014
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 15 DAY: TUE TIME: 19:00 VENUE: BELO HORIZONTE
MATCH: 16 DAY: MON TIME: 00:00 VENUE: CUIABA
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 31 DAY: SUN TIME: 19:00 VENUE: RIO DE JANEIRO
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 32 DAY: SUN TIME: 00:00 VENUE: PORTO ALEGRE
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 47 DAY: THUR TIME: 23:00 VENUE: SAO PAULO
JUNE 2014
MATCH: 48 DAY: THUR TIME: 23:00 VENUE: CURITIBA
JUNE 2014
sports
Diamonds Forgotten in the Rough By Liz Maelane
T
he year 2012 seemed extremely promising for women’s football in Kenya. The thriving women’s premier league pulled a large number of spectators in cities like Nairobi and Mombasa. Talented girls were getting the opportunity to travel the country and not only improve their skills, but prove that they were something worth watching. Many were certain that in 5 years’ time, the Harambee Starlets would be a serious international force to be reckoned with! Fast forward to 2014 in an April edition of Nairobi News. A microscopic paragraph at the bottom of a sports column reads: “WOMEN’S FOOTBALL: Starlets ranked bottom in latest FIFA World standings. Kenya is tied with 53 other nations in position 123, but has the lowest cumulative points at 877. Starlets are Africa’s worst team at position 36.” This seemed rather awkward, so we decided to question the complex goings on of local women’s soccer – at the grassroots level. Mathare is a community in Nairobi’s Eastlands. Although it appears to be small cartographically, it is colossal in heart. Doreen Nabwire - a proud product of the community, has made a name for herself as the first Kenyan female footballer to make it to a top international league: the women’s Bundesliga in Germany. Mathare’s female football graduates have also accounted for up to 60% of the players on the Kenyan national team. Some of their other graduates have earned football scholarships and playing opportunities as far as the USA and Norway. At the heart of these successes is the Mathare Youth Sports Association (MYSA). Stephen Muchoki is the Human Resource Manager for the association. He pointed out that what makes MYSA so special is that “it is not only about football here. The reason we run these programs is so that we can bring the youth together in a positive way.” The organization trains youths who go on to mentor their peers on topics that range from HIV/ AIDS awareness, environmental care to football coaching and refereeing. MYSA feels that it is important to equip players with as many skills as possible. “We have some of our girls who are now refereeing at the level of the men’s premier league,” continues Muchoki. “The trouble begins at home though: Kenya is not a country where young girls and their parents feel that football can be a real career. Parents themselves are biased about their girls playing sports like rugby, soccer or cricket”.
Other challenges we discussed are the lack of strong role models or spokespeople in women’s football as well as parents’ concerns about how safe girls are when playing. The not-so-elephant in the room though, is the missing role of the government and Football Kenya Federation (FKF). “There are no structures in place to support women’s football in Kenya. If you’re a boy, you have a very clear path to follow in order to reach a premier league and get noticed. It’s extremely hard for our girls to go professional.” It seems the best option that talented female players have is to go overseas, but that in itself is extremely difficult. Austin Ajowi is a respected member of the Mathare community who is extremely passionate about skills development and job creation. He also coaches the True Stars and Mathare United Girls teams. In 2007 he travelled to Norway and Holland with his U/14 girls squad. We discussed with Ajowi the problems within the federation. According to him: “The boys are definitely favored. You find that the boys teams always get to matches and tournaments, whereas the girls trips will be cancelled without any explanation.” The women’s premier league ended in 2012 due to a lack of sponsorship. Ever since then, there have been nothing but crickets chirping in the direction of women’s football in Kenya. The painful part, is that the silence and poor rankings have very little to do with the players’ skills. Austin’s coaching method focuses on early development. “It’s hard to train girls when they are old. When they are young, I mix them with the boys. The girls then think they are also boys. So they play just as hard and grow stronger.” Women’s Football in Kenya only really started in the 1990’s, so one would assume the girls have a lot of catching up to do. On the contrary, when looking at the girls football culture in places like Mathare, you can’t really blame the slow progress on the players. “The girls are good.” It’s depressing that the only hope these girls have of participating in their beloved sport professionally is if they leave the country. Football training offers people in low-income communities a lot more than a few cool moves on the pitch. This story is indeed strange and its ending is sadly undefined. The predominant question is…what happens next?
www.upnairobi.com 21 June 2014
UP TOWN
UP TOWN
music
Love, Dating and Sex with Sauti Sol
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“Sometimes buying a woman a flower is better than taking her to the best restaurant” social media appears to talk of little else. If the reactions of the swooning women are anything to go by, Sauti Sol are cementing their reputation as Kenya’s number one: “Love Doctors”. “We get more than enough love,” says Polycarp, the band’s guitarist and most reserved member. The others agree, although we soon find out how this love has, in some cases, turned extreme. Bien tells us of a time two women tried to barge into his hotel room in Eldoret. “They were screaming, ‘open!’ and when I did, they wanted to force their way through the
E
“Some women just want you for the car you drive, others care about the simple things you do”
By Amal Mohamed
The five best places to take a date in Nairobi?” smiles Bien Amie, of Sauti Sol fame. “That would have to be first: my place, second: my house, third: my place (did I already say that?), fourth: my balcony and fifth: my bedroom.” It’s lunchtime and Nairobi UP has caught up with Kenyan band Sauti Sol for a casual interview on how things have changed since they acquired overnight heartthrob status, following the release of their steamy video: “Nishike”. The boys have just flown in from their “Road to MAMAs” tour in Tanzania and are still reeling from the female attention they received. “Our trip to Dar-es-Salaam was a bit shocking,” confides Bien, with excitment in his eyes. “We didn’t know our fanbase there was so huge!” Since the release of Nishike, Kenyan
starts us off: “Hygiene; she’s got to be clean. A lady that can cook well, has natural hair and knows how to express herself.” Chimano admits that, other than cleanliness, “they have to have a good career, I’m not here for broke relationships.” The boys have worked hard to get where they are and they value someone who has their independence. This is mirrored by Devlin’s criteria for a partner: “I’m attracted to someone who is down to earth, clean, intelligent and ambitious. I’m not ready for housewives”, he says. Polycarp agrees, but points out, frankly, that: “they have to be physically attractive too though,” (nods of approval from the rest). “I first have to be attracted to the physical. Although a person with whom you can have a decent conversation is also a must.” The fundamentals it seems, are shared. “I’ve been in long-term relationships, short-term relationships, situationships, ISS one night stands; all kinds” jests Bien who, unlike Delvin, isn’t adverse to the odd social media fling. Having crooned about girls wanting them for Range Rovers and love that transcends the material, they all have quite contrasting views on love and its relationship to money. Bien insists that he is a loving kind of U
LO
Although it is pretty regular for a celebrity to have fans contacting them through social media, unfortunately for Devlin the attention did not stop there. Before he had time to realise what was happening, he was inundated with declarations of never-ending love. “I’m not gay, I told him, what’s your problem? But the guy keeps on insisting! Somehow he managed to get a hold of my number,” Devlin continues. “I keep on blocking him but he just calls from another phone!” The stalker recently added Marek, the manager of Sauti Sol, on Facebook too. We ask Devlin, to a chorus of laughter, if this makes him at all jealous. He shakes his head, saying he is happy to have the stalker off his back but that, on a serious note, anyone who wants his attention will have the most luck if they do so in person. “For all those women who are hitting me up on social media, VE they will never get that chance. If you ever want to get me, come direct,” he announces, seemingly exasperated. “I receive loads of phone calls too,” Chimano tells us. “People call just for you to hear them breathing”. Fresh from watching him suggestively pour himself over a convertible
door. I was so speechless I just slammed the door in their faces.” In another bizarre case, a girl forcefully took a jacket of Bien’s and threw his car keys in the bushes, presumably to prevent him from leaving the house. “I didn’t have a spare key! I left her in the house and told her that when I came back I needed to see my keys there.” Luckily, the irrational young lady returned to her senses and upon returning, Bien found the keys and his jacket on the coffee table. Bien, whose height, build and easy smile, ooze sex appeal and charm, is not alone with his experiences with manic fans. “I do have groupies but there’s one in particular that stands out,” Devlin, a self-confessed lothario, tells us. “There is this gay guy, a serious stalker. He started on Facebook saying, ‘hi, how are you?”
in “Nishike”, we confess, at a risk of sounding creepy ourselves, that this doesn’t sound too surprising. All four members live together and the sense of brotherhood and camaraderie between them is palpable. “There’s pressure when bringing back a woman to the house,” says Bien. “People actually sneak them in or check whether everyone is asleep first,” Chimano humorously adds. “But if it’s something serious, if it’s someone that you want to date, then you wouldn’t sneak them in,” qualifies Polycarp. Talking about sneaking girls into the house spikes our curiosity. What kind of a person would they want to date anyway? Bien
person and it comes naturally as a writer of love songs. “I’d say that at the moment I can afford to be romantic. Before I wanted to do many things that I couldn’t afford but now I can afford to do them. People don’t want to accept the fact that these things cost money.” After a pause, he adds: “sometimes buying a woman a flower, is better than taking her for the best dinner of her life.” Polycarp nods in agreement, underlining that: “what matters are the small things you do”. “But you also have to know that, there’s only so much free romance,” says Devlin and the table bursts into song: “No romance without finance”. As we compose ourselves following the musical outburst, Bien
“People call just for you to hear them breathing” divulges an early romantic experience: “when I was in nursery school, there was this chick called Catherine who I really liked. I picked her flowers, bougainvillea, red ones and purple ones, I mixed them. I gave them to her and on her birthday, she called another guy.” In his guru-like words of wisdom, Delvin reflects: “I’ve dealt with different women. Some just want you for the car you drive, others care about the simple things you do. I think it all depends on their upbringing, how they were raised. Unfortunately, the types of women we attract are mainly of the materialistic mold.” It’s not all doom and gloom if you’re not financially privileged, they assure us though. “Work just has to bang you senseless,” says Bien. “At every level of society’s financial status, there’s a date to match it,” he posits. “If I were Gideon Moi, we’d be having this discussion over lunch in a fancy game resort”. Devlin agrees, adding: “However, anyone can go to Uhuru Park and have a blast, walk around town over the weekend and take photos.” We draw guarded answers and misleading hints when we ask the burning question of the band members’ different relationship statuses. From what we can glean, one of them is practically married, one is officially single, one is in a ‘situationship’ and another is slightly befuddled. We were afraid we would need to ply the Sauti Sol guys with alcohol to get them to spill the beans on their intense romantic lives. However, as it turned out, they were all too happy to share with abandon, as long as we didn’t reveal to the world who was still available and who not…
2014
2012
2010
2005 Completed their O-Levels and decided to form a band
2006
2008
Band became finalists in Spotlight on Kenyan Music competition and got signed by Kenya label, Penya Africa
Debut single, “Lazizi” becomes a hit Released their debut album, Mwanzo
• Europe Tour and Album Recording in Sweden • Won Museke Online African Music Award for Best Group
2011 • Performed at South By South West Festival in Austin, Texas • Released their second album, Sol Filosofia • Won Best Group at CHAT (Chaguo La Teeniez) Awards in Kenya • Won two awards at Kisima Music Awards for Best Afrofusion Group and Best Video (“Coming Home”)
• Debuted at Festival sur Le Niger in Mali • Performed at Colours of Ostrava, Czech Republic’s biggest music festival • Launched their SOMA SOMA intiative to develop peer-to-peer mentorship • Collaboration on “Shukuru” with Tanzanian rapper AY, won East Africa’s Most Gifted Music Video at Channel O Music Awards
4 places recommended by Sauti Sol for a date - Nairobi Safari Walk (National Park) - Giraffe Manor - StedMak Gardens - National Theatres - Uhuru Park
2013 • Performed at Inauguration of President Uhuru Kenyatta • Performed at Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards in Nigeria • Awarded Artist of the Year at Kenya’s first SOMA (Social Media) Awards
• Nominated for Best Group at 2014 MTV Base African Music Awards • Controversial “Nishike” music video gets banned on local television stations • Third album: Live and Die In Africa due for release within the year
UP TOWN television
Statehouse - Behind the scenes in corridor’s of Kenyan power
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By Ondi Madete
he drama begins almost immediately: outgoing President Entere is replaced by young, popular Kajana Mda who ruffles feathers as he moves in. Currently running on Zuku’s Channel 100,
the new Kenyan series “Statehouse” sets out to explore the fictional underbelly of the battles of power and love in the home of Kenya’s Head of State. Director Wanuri Kahiu’s political drama has raised the bar for Kenyan TV. Pioneering new levels of expertise, production values, casting and intellectually stimulating story lines, the show is packed with intrigue, love connections and suspence. Inevitably comparable to Downton Abbey, this original political drama captures an arena rife with political machinations and scandalous relationships. Combining the conspiracy and mystery in Scandal, the political relevance of West Wing and the cultural connection of Mother in Law, this show is one for the history books. The narrative is absorbing and keeps the audience expectant with many themes, the most prominent being power, corruption and dominance. These themes are explored through the servants who run the house, the Comptroller that rules it and the guests, politicians and diplomats that fill its corridors.
The impressive cast takes the series to the next level. Helen Keli from the acclaimed ‘By Any means Necessary’ plays the head house-keeper; renowned TV and radio personality Jimmy Gathu plays the new Commander-In-Chief and Chichi Seii, a Kenyan singer, actress and dancer, plays the first lady. Each actor fits smoothly into their character’s roles resulting in a realistic depiction of the complicated dynamics of Kenyan, indeed human interactions. According to Kahiu: “The series challenges the core of people’s ambition and explores the lengths they will go to in order to maintain power and position in a complex world.” More than this, the series encourages analysis and understanding of the depth of these elements of power and control. Produced by award-winning Kenyan filmmakers, Wanuri Kahiu and Rebecca Chandler, the twists and turns of the unfolding drama is spread through 12 riveting episodes you can catch on Zuku Entertainment Channel 100 every Monday from May 25th at 8:30 p.m.
THE FIFA WORLD CUP 2014 MATCHES
AT THE COCA-COLA VIEWING CENTER
book
Invisible - Stories from Kenya’s Queer Community
T
Amal Mohamed
here is absolutely nothing to compare this poignant compilation of experiences of gay Kenyans on bookshelves anywhere. Regardless of the extent of the reader’s exposure to ‘queer’ people, this is an extremely touching read. Through his selection of stories, Kevin Mwachiro, sheds light on the seemingly obvious but largely overlooked humanity of gay people. Social rhetoric and culture tend to stereotype in a blanket fashion the quintessential traits of people who have alternative sexual preferences. Not in these tales. As the title of the book suggests, they are rendered invisible by the paucity of stories within reach, that highlight their voices and the tales they have to tell. These human experiences of people from different professions, religions, backgrounds and parts of the country, are extremely easy to relate to. The book portrays people who are regular human beings with
ordinary woes and fears. The anxiety of jittery high school crushes, awkward teenage angst, nervous first kisses, lusty fumbling in the dark and lovers holding hands. The personalities of each of the writers are engaging in their different styles and they speak with varying degrees of seriousness, humor and demeanor and from a variety of life perspectives. As with life, in Invisible there are no two stories that are alike. One recurrent theme that resonates throughout the narrations though, is the pain of coming out to their families. Their struggles www.upnairobi.com 24 June 2014
underline their bravery, loneliness and resilience in the face of prejudice. The most fundamental message the book conveys is the normalness of those who are labelled abnormal. Kevin Mwachiro succeeds in capturing snippets of the lives of gay people who are heroes in their own right. These are people who decide to live their truth, because they have no choice but to. “Invisible, Stories from Kenya’s Queer community” edited by Kevin Mwachiro, is the most popular book ever published by the Goethe Institut, Nairobi. Get your copy either at the Goethe Institut or Text Book Centre for KES. 750 only.
Bilingual, interna onal! We offer the excellent DIAP qualifica on – recognized in Kenya and worldwide.
drink
The Southern Italian Wines at 360
UP TOWN
NAIROBI RESTAURANTS 360 DEGREES ARTISAN PIZZA ABC Place, Westlands
Alyson Schultz, Head Chef describes the wines on offer as, “interesting, unique, and very food-friendly.” Alyson lauds the Gragnano, a bubbly red wine, known around Naples as “Pizza Cola”, reflecting the staple’s light and easily drinkable nature. The Falanghina, another favorite, is a bright white wine indigenous to Southern Italy. Another hit is the Fiano d’Avellino, a crisp white that matches the house made Spinach Tagliatelle and Mushroom Pizza Bianca. “For Chardonnay lovers,” says Schultz, “we have a delicious Sicilian Chardonnay (100% Italian made Chardonnay is quite unusual) made by one of the most well-respected wineries in Italy.” One of the most popular red wines is the Chianti Fiasco, a DOCG which means its grapes were grown only in Chianti and the wine was made under very strict guidelines. For the perfect supplement to the Spicy Lamb Sausage and Proscuitto Funghi pizza, the Aglianico, is guaranteed to hit the spot. To toast celebrations, Joy Marambii, Executive Chef recommends the Prosecco DOC Teresa Rizzi, Italy’s wellmade sparkling wine. “Alternatively, you can try it as a Spritz. For the perfect sundowner drink on the patio, try the Aperol Spritz, which boasts complex bitter sweet notes.” She points to the Colosi Nerello Mascalese IGT as the ultimate accompaniment to 360’s hearty Braised Beef. “Those who enjoy a Barolo might also enjoy this Sicilian dry red with earth nuances.” “We are continuously sourcing for new high quality and unique wines from Southern Italy which are value for money for our guests. This has been our promise and our commitment has been proved through menu reviews and the current wine list.” says Restaurant Manager Victon Lugaga.
The Californian invasion has arrived in Nairobi, in the form of 360-Degree Artisan Pizza, right down to the modern wood, taupe and ochre interiors. Try the House-Made Spicy Lamb Sausage with Romanesco Pesto, roasted zucchini and mint; and the Roasted Cauliflower & Pancetta with fontal cheese and red chili. 0700 360 360; or book at eatout.co.ke
CHOMAZONE BLIX Karen Plains Arcade, off Karen Rd
prices. Karen Plains Arcade, 1st floor, Karen. 0722 246629 or book at eatout.co.ke
meats such as crocodile, camel, guinea fowl and ostrich. 0720 740 842; or book at eatout.co.ke
JIKO AT TRIBE HOTEL Tribe Hotel, Village Market
SIERRA BRASSERIE Yaya Centre, Hurlingham
Its contemporary international cuisine focuses on carefully grown fresh ingredients and speciallsourced international imports. The extensive menu features grilled meats and vegetables as well as house made pastas, breads, pastries and gelatos. 0732 186 000; or book at eatout. co.ke
Sierra Brasserie is a modern interpretation of a classical French brasserie serving simple yet elegant food using the best ingredients available. Dinner should be washed down with their signature beers brewed at the state of the art brewery on Mombasa Road. 0733 505 152; or book at eatout.co.ke
CARNIVORE’S SIMBA SALOON
PAMPA LAVINGTON Thompson Estate, Lavington
Chomazone Blix in Karen brings you the best of nyama choma – goat, beef, and rotisserie chicken with all your favorite accompaniments. During the day you get a quick buffet for lunch, and enjoy your favorite drinks at the bar at competitive
f i n e
Catch the World Cup final at Carnivore in partnership with UP Magazine and Havaianas. Come and experience a taste of Brazil at the newly revamped Simba Saloon where you can enjoy the game at the new Smirnoff Bar fully kitted with HD screens. Throughout the World Cup season, local beers @ Kshs. 250/-, with special buy 5 for the price of 4 Beer Bucket Promos. Capoeira, caipirinhas and fantastic offers and discounts on food. Like the restaurant on Mombasa Road, Pampa is a true treat for meat lovers with its diverse, all you can eat, servings of beef, chicken, goat, pork, lamb and fish, as well as exotic
a f r i c a n
c u i s i n e
Please call, 0722 204647/8
n a i r o b i ’s u r b a n p e r s p e c t i v e
Reader’s Competition Send Us Your Favourite Nairobi Getaway (max two hours drive) and Win a Weekend at Fisherman’s Camp, Naivasha. send your tips to: content@mondeas.com (more details on UPNairobi.com)
DINNER AT MONIKOS KITCHEN CALL 0737032064 FOR RESERVATIONS VALLEY ARCADE SHOPPING CENTER, OFF GITANGA ROAD
NOW OPEN IN NANYUKI
Date: 13th July 2014 Venue: Carnivore Time: 2200
909 James Gichuru Rd +254(0)737444 440 www.lepalanka-nairobi.com
www.upnairobi.com 27 June 2014
UP TOWN
food
food
Chef Olu’s Dry Pepper Soup We got in touch with the London-based Sierra Leonian chef “Olu”, to find out if he had a special recipe for pepper soup to share. He was happy to comply, although what exactly a “Dry Soup” is and why it isn’t called a stew remains a bit of a mystery. Chef Olu didn’t provide any precise amounts, so we’re guessing it’s something that you have to just play by ear. Ingredients: - Oxtail - Pigs Foot - Chicken Necks - Lobster and/or Crab - Tomatoes (if tinned drained of all water, if fresh blended or chopped) - Thyme - Onion - Garlic - Dried Pimento - Peppercorns - Two Habanero Chillies - Palm oil (you can substitute for a lighter oil if you don’t care to be authentic) Procedure: - Start by frying up the oxtail, followed by the pig’s knuckles and finally the chicken necks in the oil and dry spices for 30 minutes - Chop the onions and garlic into very thin and small pieces - Add the onions and garlic to the meat and keep on frying for another 25 minutes - Add the tomatoes - Ideally you are aiming for a dry tomato pulp. Blend if you feel this is a good consistency for you. - Add the two habaneros and cook, stirring constantly, for another 15 minutes - Add the lobster or crab about five minutes before it’s ready. -Salt and pepper to taste. This stew is best served with a cassava meal known as Fufu
Nigerian Supper Club Review By Katy Fentress
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recently finished reading Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s “Half of a Yellow Sun”. Never in my life have I sobbed quite so hard on completion of a book. Recently made into a movie, the fictional novel follows the story of two well-off twins in the years running up to the 1970s Biafran War. “Half of a Yellow Sun”, is an amazing read and anyone who wishes to delve deeper into recent Nigerian history, should immediately hit their local book retailer. Set in a time of affluence and plenty, the first half of the tale weaves the stories of two very different sisters and their respectively gilded lives. Chimamanda, who we can only surmise to be quite the foodie, spares no details in her accounts of Ogwu, the househelp hero, as he cooks up heaps of tripe stew, pepper soup and other Nigerian delicacies for his master, the revolutionary professor Odenigbo. There are at least ten different mentions of pepper stew scattered throughout “Half of a Yellow Sun”. Enough said that for over a month now, I have been yearning after a soup that I have never actually tasted before. In order to put an end to my unnatural craving, I recently enlisted the help of a friend of mine and together we headed off to the Nigerian Consulate on Lenana road, to enquire about where the diplomatic corps habitually head to break their bread, or fufu as the case may be. Turns out we didn’t have far to go. Hidden away behind an unassuming gate in a back street of Kilimani, is what can be best described as a Nigerian Supper Club. A Supper Club is a private home that opens its doors to the general public, who come and dine in an informal setting of dubious legality. Supper Clubs are all the rage in Europe’s fine dining capitals at the moment. Brimming with excitement, my friend and I walked into the small, homely and dimly-lit dining www.upnairobi.com 28 June 2014
hall containing five tables covered in mismatching cheap plastic tablecloths. Deciding that the smell indoors was a little bit overwhelming, we headed off to the garden from whence we ordered a selection of assorted jollof rice, fufu and fish stew and of course… pepper soup. The pepper soup came first. Fortunately I knew enough not to judge Nigerian food by its appearance - not a culture that prides itself on fancy, pretty looking food but that focuses instead on rich and multi-layered flavours. We steeled out resolve and spooned up some of the beef and tendon bits floating in the clear broth. What immediately struck us was the powerful black pepper flavour that burned the top of our mouths and warmed our insides. Having nothing to compare the soup to, we did not know if this was the real mccoy; but judging by the absence of blandness, it felt close enough. For the rest, the soft and fluffy fufu was a huge hit with my friend, who tires of regular Kenyan ugali. Instead of squelching the pap in your hand and then using it as a spoon, fufu works more like bread, you rip off a piece and dip it into the thick, spicy tomato sauce which half absorbs half coats it. The jollof rice was blander than the version I had travelling to Ghana, but when mixed with the “assorted” meat and stew, it was undoubtedly a lip smacking fare. The “assorted” element of the meat was, as far as we could make out, cow’s shin. We initially balked at the thought of biting into it, but in the name of adventure and temerity decided to give it a try. I’ve had pig’s knuckle before and the thickskinned consistency is largely similar, it takes some getting used to but if you can get over the thought that it’s gross, well it turns out it actually isn’t. It might be some time before Supper Clubs go from being small places where Nairobi’s minorities go and dine, to the trendy affairs they have become in the affluent North. Let’s keep it that way I say, as trendy is generally not synonymous with utterly delicious. www.upnairobi.com 29 June 2014
URBAN PRESENCE
URBAN PRESENCE “The Athi River water is currently unfit for human consumption and any other related human activities like bathing and irrigation” - Machakos County Director of Environment Stephen Kitunga
to the river due to a broken sewer pipe at Njiru. The sources of water for Nairobi River sub-basins are the Ondiri springs, the Kabete and Karura forests, the Ngong hills and all the streams which flow downstream of Nairobi into the Athi River. The Nairobi River draws the waste of hundreds of thousands of people living in informal settlements with improper drainage systems and people along Athi River suffer the consequences of unplanned urban growth. The truth is, in this era of industrialization without sustainable infrastructure, the country’s flora and fauna play second fiddle to quick cash. This is the ugly face of badly planned capitalism, a shortsightedness that sits back and watches as rivers are suffocated by pollution. Ironically, the result is counter-productive to development. Peter Nzoka, the Chairman of Environment Committee of Kangundo Town Council, expressed disappointment over the persistent pollution of the river and its detrimental effect to the economy: “Last Kenyatta Day many tourists who visited the falls were turned back by the choking smell of the waste which was felt more than ten kilometers away from the river,’’ Nzoka said. “We find ourselves not getting anything from the river as all the fish die as a result of the strong poisonous chemicals’’ said Mutinda Mutuve, a fisherman from the Donyo Sabuk area. The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has declared the water from Athi River unfit for human consumption and acknowledged “negative health effects such as waterborne diseases”. The agency however insists that “the discharge is free from industrial waste.”
Chemical Rivers
investigation
Wasted Waterways The decline and fall of Nairobi’s rivers
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By Amal Mohamed
he communities around Athi River have their folklore and history attached to its flowing waters. The Athi and Gumba, a branch of the Kalenjin people that at one time stretched from Athi River’s highland source to its Indian Ocean destination, call the Athi River basin their ancestral home. Today, Athi River is an ecological disaster. It’s difficult to pinpoint exactly how many lives have been lost to disease caused by the pollution of Nairobi and its surrounding tributaries. According to the Donyo Sabuk Nursing Home, the nearest hospital to the toxic waterfalls known as the Fourteen Falls, the numbers of patients with waterborne diseases is on the increase. “There is no difference between people dumping garbage and toxic waste into rivers and murderers,” lamented recently the Governor of Kiambu County, William Kabogo. Meanwhile downstream, at the Donyo Sabuk Nursing Home, young patients are lying in pain. Dr Mulinga, who has been stationed here for years, recounts the cases he has handled stemming from the
polluted waters: “Most patients suffer from dysentery, bilharzia and typhoid-amoebiasis. Many of the locals cannot afford water treatment pellets and there has also been a sharp rise in cancer in the area”. Not only do these waterborne diseases lead to an increase in health expenses but, according to the Doctor, schools have experienced reduced attendance over the years, which is now resulting in high illiteracy levels at a local level.
Lethal Falls The spectacle of tons of water plummeting into the basin below, once made the Fourteen Falls one of Kenya’s must-see natural landmarks. The once pristine waters gushing down the steep precipice of the Falls attracted throngs of tourists. Today, instead of awe, the Fourtenn Falls elicit feelings of shock, disgust and dismay, as all manner of debris and sewage spill into the basin and the stink of rot fills the air. In October 2013, the Senate Committee on Royalties on Mineral Resources recommended the closure of the site due to raw sewage that is discharged
www.upnairobi.com 30 June 2014
A 2011 report from the Kenyatta University Institutional Repository indicated that: “polluting agents at certain levels may be lethal to both the flora and the fauna that depend on the waters.” This study showed that both microbial and chemical pollution, particularly in the form of lead, arsenic and chromium, pose an extreme pollution risk to Athi River, which endangers the health of all the people downstream. In 2012, another report pinpointed industrial waste such as the sludge and solid waste derived from sugar, coffee pulping and textile factories, leather tanneries, paper-mills and slaughter-houses, as a high contributor to the toxicity of the river’s waters. The failure of the Dandora Domestic and Industrial Wastewater Treatment Plant is another issue to which politicians turn a blind eye. All waters from Nairobi, every flush and every shower, goes through to Nairobi River untreated. The two wastewater treatment plants serving Nairobi - the Dandora treatment stabilization ponds (DSTP) and the Kariobangi wastewater treatment plant, have been shown by studies to be failing. According to one study, the effluent that is released into the river is partly treated from the Dandora plant but does not meet local or international statutory requirements. According to a 2011 Athi Water Services Board paper, the Kariobangi plant is poorly maintained and has stopped functioning, resulting in wastewater bypassing it. It concludes that the limited sewerage infrastructure coupled with rapid urban growth, have led to direct discharge of raw untreated sewage into the rivers. Even our tap water is not spared. According to the Water Sector Regulatory Board, in 2009/10 only 76% of drinking water samples complied with standards for bacteriological quality, a level deemed unacceptable by the regulator.
The ‘Toothless Bulldog’ There are records dating back to 1996 that document how the issue of the pollution of the Athi River was already being raised
in Parliament. As appears to be the case today, refraction and endless promises were the only responses. “We are aware of the gravity of the situation. We shall be consulting with agencies in the sector to find alternative sources of water for the residents,” said NEMA Director, General Geoffrey Wahungu at a press conference earlier this year. “Following an inspection of the entire waterway with officials from the Water Resources Management Authority,” continued Wahungu, “we have established that the Ruai Waste Water Treatment Works has not been working to full capacity as the main sewer line had collapsed at Njiru.” On June 26th last year, Senator Johnson Nduya Muthama proposed a motion to protect the Tana and Athi Rivers from pollution before the Senate. Senator David Masila joined in and called NEMA a “toothless bulldog”. Both Senators called for the polluters to be harshly penalized, decrying the loss of aquatic life. Senators have spoken at length regarding the awful state of water sanitation and are resigned to pile the blame on the national government, without pointing out what they can do to alleviate the situation. Meanwhile, Kiambu County government has promised to put legislation in place to ensure that people found dumping toxic waste in rivers within the County, get a minimum jail term of twenty years. As the noxious water still runs through the country and politicians continue to squabble, we are yet to see any progress in all these promises and pledges.
The Culprits The waters of Athi River continue to suffer assaults from numerous directions, but the most noxious and potentially lethal effluent dumped into the waters is industrial waste. Athi River Mining (ARM), one of Kenya’s largest cement manufacturers, has been caught in a convoluted conflict the residents of Kilifi county by the coast, for polluting in the area. ARM Kaloleni was ordered to close in 2013. Despite endless efforts by the affected community in Kaloleni, Rabai and various other affected towns around the country, the company remains adamant and refuses to take measures to mitigate the adverse effects on the environment. Other companies that have been linked to outright dumping in the Athi River, include the Kamiti Tannery Factory, Thika Tanary and Kel Chemicals. The Nairobi River, which flows into Athi River, passes by the lower sections of Githurai and Zimmerman and the Kamiti Tannery Factory. The lower stream waters are brackish and characterized by foul smell. Chemical tests at this point have shown that the water contains not just human waste, but chromium at alarmingly high rates. The health effects of ingesting chromium eerily echo the illnesses suffered in hospitals like the Donyo Sabuk Nursing Home. Hexavalent chromium, for example, is a toxic human carcinogen that can cause or increase the rates of certain cancers. Ingestion of chromium VI can cause stomach problems, such as ulcers and can also be damaging for kidney and liver functions. Dermal contact causes a number of skin problems, including rashes, sores, and ulcers. In addition, several studies have found evidence that chromium accumulation in the body can damage a person’s ability to metabolize iron, which can lead to iron deficiency anemia. In the words of George Orwell: “All political thinking for years past has been vitiated in the same way. People can foresee the future only when it coincides with their own wishes, and the most grossly obvious facts can be ignored when they are unwelcome.” A petition to the Cabinet Secretary of Environment, Water and Natural Resources in Kenya to stop the environment pollution by Athi River Mining Cement Limited is currently online on the website avaaz. org The question remains though whether for the residents of Athi River, what is being done is just too little and too late.
www.upnairobi.com 31 June 2014
UP NEXT
UP NEXT technology
News from the hubs By Mugethi Gitau
IHub The iHub hosted MIT media lab professors and students for a week. This was the culmination of a long discussion that was initiated by Directors fellows Juliana Rotich and David Kobia (Ushahidi co-founders) The week, dubbed “Boost Week”, saw the MIT and iHub innovators come together and work on projects that included using sensors to stop poaching, making prothestics and monitoring/engaging leaders (civic engagement) The highlight of the week was a fireside chat by Joi Ito, MIT media lab director.
Mlab mLab announced the finalists of PIVOT East on the 25th of May. These are the startups that will pitch during the final event on 24th - 25th June. They are also holding a workshop on “Fundraising, Investor Pitch and Closing Deals- An entrepreneurial perspective and Convertible Debt” on the 29th May at m:lab. This is a workshop for the semifinalists only.
Nailab Nailab held a hackathon in Kisumu. The winners of Nailab Kisumu hackathon were M-Security. The team that comprised of Lawrence, Catherine and George, developed a solution which will ease police investigations using affordable technology. Runners-up, were PataKibarua who developed a solution built with the aim of helping young people in the community get informal employment In 3rd place, was SMARTclinic who are health enthusiasts. The group developed an application that alerts patients when their hospital appointments are due, one’s doctors availability, help track there progress and give them information on health matters that will improve their livelihoods.
technology
Dating in the Digital Age
gadget review
The Bose Soundlink Mini
I
f you’re into music and care about the quality of sound coming from your speakers, you will inevitably be aware of the market heavyweight: Bose. If you’re not a sound enthusiast, here’s a little recap of why Bose remains, to this day, one of the most important producers of speakers in the world. The Bose corporation has been around since 1964 and was founded by one Dr. Amar G. Bose, then a professor or electrical engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, in order to improve on the sound output available by the products on the market at the time. Bose captured people’s attention during the 1970s with its exceptionally small pentagonal Model 901 home system speaker. Since then, the company has remained synonymous with palm-sized exceptionally clear, hi-definition speakers. Not to be left behind the curve, in 2009 Bose released its first wireless speaker, the SoundLink Wireless Music System, which retailed in the United States at an eye-watering $550. A couple of years later, Bose released the first of the SoundLink Mobile series which was smaller and lighter than the previous unit. Bose recently opened its first store in Kenya at Sarit Centre. The shop sells the third edition of the SoundLink Mobile Series and a new, highlyportable Bluetooth speaker named the SoundLink Mini. So, how good is the SoundLink mini and should you consider investing in it? What’s to love? The Bose SoundLink mini is about half the size of its bigger brother the SoundLink Mobile Series III and the audio quality is undoubtedly lower. The design is sleek and box-like and is built in a light aluminium enclosure which makes it light and easy to hold in one hand. The protective rubber covers come in seven different colours of which the green, orange and blue are available to buy in Kenya. If you plan to take www.upnairobi.com 32 June 2014
your SoundLink Mini out for many walks, you might consider buying its travel case too. The speaker is battery operated and can be charged beforehand or alternatively left on charge without running the risk of burning your battery out. What could be better? When you consider that the speaker retails at $200 in the United States, you realise that the Kenyan price tag of Kes 29,500 is altogether quite prohibitive. Furthermore once you have listened to the SoundLink Mobile III, it is difficult to come to terms with the loss of bass which comes with the smaller version. While the SoundLink Mobile III has a good twelve metre range, the Mini cuts this by about half. Bottom line: Although the sound quality is without a doubt extremely good for such a petite device, when compared to other similarly sized devices available on the Kenyan market (like for example the Lifetrons DrumBass Xtreme which retails at Kes. 17,000) it does feel quite pricey. Sound enthusiasts might disagree, Bose is all about the name and if you are married to the brand then no one will convince you to look elsewhere. But if you are looking for a small portable Bluetooth device that doesn’t cost the earth you might want to do some more due diligence. Tech specs: • Input Type: 3.5mm Stereo Jack • Connections: Bluetooth • Speaker Configurations: Stereo • Power Source: AC, Battery Power • Battery Type: Rechargeable Lithium-Ion • Height: 2 in./5.08 cm • Width: 2.3 in./5.84 cm • Weight: 1.47 lb./0.67 kg • Length: 7.1 in./18.03 cm You can buy this product, and any other in the Bose line, at the Bose shop on the first floor at the Sarit Centre, Nairobi.
What Mobile Apps are Nairobi’s singletons using to get out and get it on ? Ms. MaiKap Samtin, 37 I am a Tinder user. The way it works is you log-on and then start scrolling through different guys (or girls) as they pop up. If someone looks interesting or cute you “like” them. If they “like” you back then you can start chatting . I use Tinder because it’s an easy way to meet, chat, make friends and maybe more. I’ve never really used anything else before but don’t see why I should. Tinder is on your phone, it’s fast and easy and you don’t have to upload any complicated profiles, a picture in a flattering light is more than enough!
The apps are all a bit different.Grindr is more about hookups and for “upper to middle class” gay men. It’s also good if you are travelling as it shows you the location of a person. Romeo is a complete mix of guys but you have to watch out as there are alot of scammers there too. There is also a technological difference between them. Grindr is only available as an app on android and IOS, whole Romeo is both an app and a website. Gaydar is a mix of both but it’s a bit older and currently less popular. I find that these apps can be loads of fun. I’ve met some awesome chaps and even
I’ve liked about thirty guys over the past month or so. Of these I’ve gone out on dates with ten guys. Of the ten guys I went out with, two it took a quick a coffee to realise we just didn’t click, four I had a nice chat with and we’ve stayed in touch and four I slept with. One of the four I fell in love with, but unfortuantely he doesn’t live in Nairobi so I’m not sure when I’ll see him again. I think people mainly use Tinder for sex but there’s alot of people on there who have an “anything can happen” attitude. It’s different levels of interest. I was in the “anything can happen” club and never expected to fall in love. While I would say that you don’t have to be single to be on Tinder, in order to avoid anyone taking it the wrong way it’s probably best that you are!
had some serious relationships with the people I’ve met. I wouldn’t say it was dangerous, but I do know people who’ve ended up blackmailed or robbed. With me I have tried to play things safe, let someone close to me know where I was going and keep them updated. I’ve had guys misrepresent themselves to me but I always meet people in a public space and have an exit strategy in case I’m not comfortable. Some guys I know have found love on these apps and some have found great friends too. Ultimately it’s about where you’re at in that moment of your life.
Mr HunkyTallGuy, 28 The most popular gay dating and hookup apps in Nairobi are Grindr, Planet (Gay) Romeo and Gaydar. I use all three although I recently closed my Gay Romeo account.
HotKamapalan, 33 I am a Grindr user. I used to use Gaydar or Manhunt, but I found them to be too tedious and needy and there was alot of admin involved. Grindr is really accessible for someone who can afford a smartphone and it’s just like wattsapp: short profiles, little info. But what’s really important about Grindr is that it tells you how distant from you a user is. I find Grindr comes in handy because it’s hard to tell in your www.upnairobi.com 33 June 2014
day-to-day life who is gay and who isn’t. It’s not exactly online dating, it feels more like on-thego dating. Obviously chances are you will be mainly chatting with upper middle class men but whether that’s good or bad is entirely up to you. I’ve gone on a couple of good dates in Nairobi through Grindr. So far I find the Nigerian men here to be hypnotizing. However I feel that East Africans find it so hard to be spontaneous! I’ve had some bad dates too though; these have been mostly with foreigners who have sent me explicit pictures without sending me a picture of their face. I find it to be quite offputting to have chat to a guy’s member. Another problem is that the Nairobi Grindr scene can be quite small and I occasionally have to log off for a while before eventually giving in and downloading it again. My dating life has become a lot busier since I started using this kind of app. All of a sudden it’s much easier to find dates and hookups. I’d say though that the best part is not just that your dating life is more active, but also that there are more opportunities to simply make friends with other gay men in this difficult society. I have definitely also made some good friends through the app. NotAShyGuyNairobi, 29 I have not used any other dating apps prior to Tinder. A friend suggested it to me and showed me what it was about. It just looked fun and easy…swiping left or right across the screen depending on whether or not you like someone, seems pretty fun. I’m a pretty confident guy and have no trouble meeting girls in real life. I really just got the app for fun. Therefore, I haven’t been on any dates through the app. There’s just one or two girls I chat with and that’s about it. I’m just not so serious about the app. I wouldn’t mind maybe going for a very relaxed coffee but to go for a full-on date would be a bit too serious and I guess that’s just not what I’m looking for on Tinder. The app really hasn’t changed my dating life, because, as I said, I have no problems walking up to a girl and chatting. But I won’t bash it because it is a really fun tool!
WORD UP
WORD UP your egg, put it in water and heat the water until it has reached a hundred degrees centigrade. Enjoy.
ask daktari
Dear Daktari, I am a seventeen year old girl and having problems at school. How can I improve my grades without actually doing any work? Cutie Pie, 17, Kileleshwa
memoirs of a prostitute
Finding Love of the Dark Streets of Nairobi
T
By Susan Kahumbura
he Greek say there are two types of love: Agape and Eros. The former has to do with emotions and admiration while the latter is purely sexual. By virtue of our work, eros perhaps should dominate our love lives. However that is not the case. Just like a million other women, the things that make us love, have less to do with sex . We fall for the simplicity of a listening ear, a caring heart and an assuring caress . And after all that, the eros follows to make the love whole. This applies to both friend and client .
But how do we manage to fall in love considering in our business we are supposed to be tough and devoid of any real feelings other than those to do with money? The truth is, deep inside, we are still puppies who want to spend every minute knowing there is someone thinking fondly of us. Like I mentioned previously, a number of us are in relationships with men living in the estates or the villages where we came from . More often than not such relations are based on lies and mind games as the girl tries to hide her night escapades . The self proclaimed Love Doctors who patronize mid morning radio shows often say “If you want
to kill your love then tell lies “. Yet sometimes a pinch or bucketful of lies is what is needed to protect ‘ Love ‘. See, though Love is famed for being blind to imperfections, too many shortcomings in a lover, triggers Love to open its eyes, not to look beyond the flaws but to another more perfect version. So the girl continues to lie about her character and what she does for a living until the day by hook or crook she wiggles out of the situation . That day she tells her lover “You know what! I have quit my low paying waitress job. I plan to start selling cosmetics “ .
Despite such a triumph the girl can never be at ease . The world is a small place, and this city even smaller. A former client might move in next door, or turn out to be the man’s relative. There is always the danger that her past could be discovered and her genuine love for the man be trashed using such words as “gold digger” . What to do then? Nothing. Simply live, give her all to the lover, do all she can to protect them, and hope that her past does not come to crumble her love . Still it can’t always be perfect . The relationship fails sometimes for reasons beyond the girl’s control. The man is abusive or, as ironic as it may seem, unfaithful. Also, if the www.upnairobi.com 34 June 2014
economic times are too hard, the girl may be tempted to take one for the team and sneak in with a neighbour in order to pay the bills. When the relationship is over, many former girls of the night rather than cry all day, troop back here to the street where life just goes on. We also fall for our clients although ‘Don’t fall in love with a client’ is our eleventh commandment. Love in our kind of business, compromises many things including the ability to negotiate higher prices and to send off a man when there is a another offering a better deal . Nevertheless, we remain human beings: a client who listens to a girl, buys her gifts and looks beyond her eros, touches our hearts. Hence we find ourselves in that immediate moment after the humpty dumpty opening our mouths and saying “ I love you”. “What did you say?” the bewildered client asks . “I love you”. The reaction is usually a smirk and a sarcastic laugh . The client wondering how can a girl say she is in love when in a few minutes, after getting her pay and combing her hair ,she will be back out in the cold looking for another man. What the man cannot understand is that although in this city, sex has become synonymous with love, for us there is a thick line between the two . Despite the clients doubts we don’t just give up . When he appears again we restate our feelings and give him more than his money’s worth. We keep loving knowing there are those who will also keep loving us.
- In my time, girls were not expected to go to school, the important thing was that they knew how to cook and to kill a chicken. I suppose times have changed so I will do my best to advise you on your problem: to get good grades at school you must aim to always wear a miniskirt, if you have a uniform then cut the skirt so it is 4 inches above the knee. Whenever a male teacher passes, accidentally “drop” something and then bend over to pick it up slowly. Always put your hand up in class and wave it frantically even if you do not know the answer.
Dear Daktari, I am a beautiful voluptuous 40-year-old woman in the middle of a style-crisis. Please suggest to me what I should wear for my sister’s wedding? Mercy, Westlands - Easy, whenever I have a style crisis I just pull out my old chicken feather headdress and wear if with a seed necklace. It’s a trusted combination; believe me you can’t go wrong!
Dear Daktari, Please help me with this question that has been plaguing me for most of my life: how long does it take to boil an egg? Anon. 23, Mathare - To answer this question you must first get to know the chicken that laid the egg personally. Talk to the chicken; let her know that you are there for her and that she can trust you. Enquire about her background, try to uncover as much information as possible, like for example how many eggs she has laid in her lifetime and how many of those were unwanted pregnancies. Whether or not she has a history of sexual violence is a key factor in determining cooking times. Once you have collected all of this information, take
Dear Daktari, My wife refuses to do any housework even though she has a lot of spare time on her hands because she does not want to get a job. How can I convince her that she has to contribute to the household in one way or another? Distraught Husband, 45 South B - My friend your attitude is totally wrong. There is no convincing to be done here: your wife must be forced to do the job she was put on this world for. My advice to you is to take a large chicken, pluck it and then tickle her until she can bear it no longer. Warn her that this is the punishment for insubordinate wives and that there is much more from where it came from. I can assure you that after she has stopped laughing she will immediately clean her act up and pull out the mops.
Dear Daktari, My teenage daughter wants to go out on the weekend for social events and gatherings. What time should I tell her to come back at? - When the moon is still high in the sky and the cock has yet to crow. Got a question for Daktari? Email him on: daktari@mondeas.com
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