Music fete to help raise funds for Mercy Train

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By Stevens Muendo

The music festival by South Africa at the National Museum of Kenya, Nairobi, will help raise funds to help Kenyans facing hunger.

South Africa’s High Commissioner Tony Msimanga, who will lead other dignitaries during the festival called South Meets East, said the proceeds of the Saturday night event will go towards the Standard Group-led Mercy Train initiative.

"The idea was mooted after President Kibaki made a national appeal for help Kenyans facing hunger. This will also be part of the build up to South Africa’s 15th Independence anniversary. People are starving. We want to be part of the solution," said Mr Msimanga.

South African Jazz artiste, Lira Molapo, 30, together with Kenya’s Eric Wainaina and Valerie Kimani will perform during the event, which kicks off at 6pm.

He said the event was not just for the elite, but also for everybody.

"Young and upcoming artistes should be given room to nurture their talents. We would like to see more partnership between East African and South African musicians," said Msimanga.

Lira, the star singer of the night, is an award-winning artiste now signed to Sony Records.

She is known for her hit singles Feel Good, All My Love, Change the World and Dance of Life.