Foreign artistes ready for Kenya’s New Year fete

Tanzanian artiste Ali Kiba at Gelian Hotel in Machakos during an interview. He is scheduled to perform at the Machakos Peoples Park tonight. [Photo: David Gichuru/Standard]

With hours before the year comes to an end, Kenyans remained upbeat on how they will be crossing over to the New Year.

And a number of foreign entertainment artistes have been jetting into the country in preparation for the big day.

Multiple award-winning Tanzanian superstar, music writer and composer AliKiba Salehe Kiba popularly known as Ali Kiba, is among them.

He is expected to lead Kenyans in ushering in the New Year in style in Machakos County, alongside his band.

Undoubtedly one of the most resourceful entertainers, the musician who jetted into the country on Tuesday night says he is ready to unleash his best. The Bongo artiste says he has lots of surprises in store for Kenyans. "I will be introducing new songs and dancing styles besides incorporating other exciting entertainment that will make my concert unique, rare and fun.

"My fans will not only be entertained but will also have the opportunity to catch up with the latest dancing trends." AliKiba says he wants Kenyans to consume his music when he comes calling because it has a sweet flavour and will whet their appetites to dance.

Another musician in town is International gospel reggae artiste Kristine Alicia in preparation for the 2015 edition of the Safaricom Groove Party in Kasarani set for tonight.

The renowned artiste – who arrived in the country on Monday morning – will be joined by fellow Jamaican reggae artiste Omari and some of Kenya's best gospel talents to usher in the New Year, at the annual event whose theme is 'ComeAsYouAre'.

"I am excited to be performing in Nairobi for the first time and I can already feel the energy and excitement that will fill the stadium on New Year's Eve," said Alicia.

She added: "I'll be doing my rehearsals over the next couple of days and can't wait to perform some of my best loved songs including 'Your Lady' and 'Around & Around'. I am looking forward to delivering an electric show alongside Omari and the Kenyan performers."

In addition to the international artistes, revelers will be treated to performances by DJ Krowbar, DJ Sadic and the Gifted DJs, alongside 2015 Groove Award winners Pitson, Evelyn Wanjiru, Eunice Njeri and Loise Kim, renowned musicians Mercy Masika, Sarah K, Gloria Muliro, Ben Githae, Ruth Matete and Amos & Josh among others.

Also on stage will be Kenya's own gospel bands AFLEWO, Bethu and the Highest Praise Band and Threat Band. The Safaricom Groove Party will take place from 4pm until dawn.

Nigeria's Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie, better known by his stage name as Patoranking, jetted into the country yesterday night for the New Year's celebrations. The reggae-dancehall singer and songwriter met fans at the New Bistro in Fortis Tower, Westlands upon his arrival, to brief them on his much anticipated event.

Meanwhile, Berlin DJ Wankelmu will be headlining a grand show in Distant Relatives Backpackers Eco-lodge, Kilifi on New Year's Eve.

Dubbed Electric Jungle Festiva, it is expected to be bigger and better. "I can't wait to give Kenyans my very best mix of music that will keep them dancing all night long," he said.