Climate Havoc Forces Postponement of Africa’s Premier Cultural Festival – FESTAC24 – in Kisumu City

The postponement of the fifth edition of the World Blacks and Africans Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC), originally scheduled for May 20-26, 2024, in Kisumu City, Kenya, underscores a series of broader issues related to event planning in the face of climate change and infrastructure vulnerabilities. The decision, driven by “aggravated and unpredicted weather conditions,” including heavy rainfall and consequential massive flooding, reflects a significant disruption not only to the festival’s logistics but also to the regional stability of Kisumu County. Eng. Yinka Abioye, the chairman of FESTAC Africa…

The Shadows of Kodera Forest: A Tragic Tale of Sharon Otieno and Delayed Justice in Kenyan Courts

In the macabre arena of Kenyan criminal cases, few have gripped the national psyche as enduringly as the murder of Sharon Otieno. Her tragic demise—a stark portrayal of betrayal, unspoken secrets, and a justice system beleaguered by delays—unfolds in the shadowy depths of Kodera Forest, a setting that might have been plucked from the darkest fables, but is all too real in its grim detail. The narrative commences in September 2018, when Sharon Otieno, then pregnant, was found brutally murdered, her body a silent testament to the savagery she endured.…

Miss Face of Mama Grace Onyango: Kisumu’s Dazzling Week of Culture, Empowerment and Glitz

In the heart of Kisumu, an event unfolds that captures the essence and vibrancy of African heritage—a celebration that transcends mere festivity to touch the core of cultural pride, innovation, and empowerment. The “Miss Face of Mama Grace Onyango” modeling contest, now in its dazzling second edition, has become an emblem of far-reaching significance, seamlessly interwoven with the grand concept of the Pre-FESTAC Festival. This is not just a contest; it’s a profound homage to African culture, education, and the empowerment of women, encapsulating a commitment that runs as deep…

Unleashing the Giants: Kisumu’s Audacious Bid to Crown the Champions of Lake Victoria

Kisumu County is once again set to dazzle and inspire as it launches the auditions for this year’s eagerly anticipated Fish Fiesta celebrations. In an unprecedented showcase of talent, culture, and spirited competition, the event is poised to roll out the rich cocktail of Luo heritage while spotlighting Kisumu as a dynamic epicenter for fishing tourism and sustainable development. Embarking on a journey through the eight pulsating sub-counties, the auditions promise an eclectic mix of contests ranging from the adrenaline-fueled boat races to the artistry of traditional wrestling, not to…

Sweeping Night-time Raid: Kisumu’s Bars and Nightclubs Shut Down in UDA Crackdown

In a significant move to enforce regulatory compliance, several bars and nightclubs in Kisumu have been closed down following a comprehensive crackdown by security agencies. This operation, initiated on Thursday, is a response to directives from Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Prof. Kithure Kindiki concerning the sale of alcoholic drinks. Under the leadership of Kisumu Central Deputy County Commissioner Bosec Lang’at, the operation targeted establishments operating without licenses and those violating operational hours, spurred by public complaints. Prominent establishments such as Mamba, Da Vunduba, Ottro Lounge, and Liquor Bistro were among…

Growing Domestic Violence Epidemic: Wave of Tragedies Killing Teachers in Kisumu County

The series of tragic incidents involving the deaths of teachers in Kisumu, resulting predominantly from domestic violence, has ignited considerable alarm and outcry among the community and educators’ associations alike. These fatal occurrences have not only cast a shadow over the educational landscape but have also highlighted a disturbing pattern of domestic violence within the region. In one distressing case, a teacher from Obwolo Secondary School met a tragic end allegedly at the hands of her husband within their home in Nyakach sub-county. Authorities have since initiated an investigation into…

Raila Odinga Pays Tribute to President Geingob at Grand Funeral: A Global Gathering of Dignitaries in Namibia

In a remarkable show of respect and solidarity, Raila Odinga, a prominent figure in African politics, joined a host of global leaders in Windhoek, Namibia, to pay homage to the late President Dr. Hage Gottfried Geingob. The state funeral, held at the Independence Stadium, became a focal point for world leaders to come together, reflecting on the profound impact of President Geingob’s legacy. Raila Odinga, in particular, captured the attention and hearts of many with his heartfelt reflections and the symbolic act of laying wreaths at Geingob’s gravesite at Heroes’…

Kisumu’s Urban Renewal: Makasembo Estate Demolition Paves Way for Sh3.5 Billion Housing Megaproject!

Between 2020 and 2022, the Kisumu County government undertook a transformative journey, engaging in a series of demolitions that have been pivotal in reshaping the urban landscape of the region. This decisive action, part of a comprehensive strategy to fight corruption, reclaim illegally occupied lands, and foster new investments in public health and economic development, has led to significant changes across Kisumu, including the notable redevelopment of the Makasembo estate. The initiative aimed at clearing businesses within the city, demolishing Kibuye Market during the COVID-19 pandemic, and targeting 32 apartments…

Love, Speed, and Kiptum’s DNA: Unknown Luo Baby Mama, Edna Awuor, Battles for Marathoner’s Millions!

In the grand theater of life, where drama and comedy often intertwine, the saga of Edna Awuor and her purportedly celebrity-sired progeny offers a plot thick with intrigue, dashed expectations, and a glaring spotlight on the rich and famous. It’s a tale as old as time, but with a modern twist—celebrities, those demigods of our era, embroiled in paternity disputes that could rival the script of a daytime soap opera. Yet, amidst the laughs and eye rolls, lies a story that raises eyebrows for its sheer audacity and the serious…

Kenya Entertainment Mourns the Loss of Charles Ouda: A Beacon of Talent and Inspiration Gone Too Soon at 38

The Kenyan entertainment industry and its myriad admirers are draped in a cloak of sorrow as we mourn the loss of Charles Ouda, a luminary whose light was extinguished far too soon at the tender age of 38, on the night of February 3, 2024. Known affectionately to many as Charlie, his departure from this world comes as a profound shock, especially following the joyous announcement of his engagement to Ciru Muriuki, a former BBC Africa presenter, just six months prior. This tragic news was shared with a heavy heart…