Festival to raise funds for the needy

Jonathan Jackson (right), chairman of Jonathan Jackson Foundation, addresses the media about the Jenga Jirani Festival planned for this weekend. [David Gichuru, Standard]

The Jonathan Jackson Foundation in partnership with Kubamba Crew will this weekend host an online festival.

Dubbed “Jenga Jirani”, the festival targets to raise Sh100 million to assist those who have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

The event, which has been sponsored by the Standard Media Group, will air on KTN Home and the Group’s entertainment social media platforms at 7:30pm.

The festival will be headlined by over 50 local artistes, among them Nyashinki, Khaligraph Jones, Samidoh, Juliani, Mercy Masika and Eric Wainaina.

Top comedians, including Eric Omondi and MC Jessy, will also participate.

Speaking during the launch of the event in Nairobi yesterday, the Jenga Jirani Festival chairman Jackson Jonathan said that he has a vision of raising funds that will help thousands of families that cannot fend for themselves during these hard times.

“The effects of the pandemic is still being felt by many. This project is aimed at supporting families in short-term and long term,” Mr Jonathan said.

Appealing for Kenyans to come together to help a neighbour, Jonathan said they will account for the money that will be raised during the festival.

“We will account for every coin raised. We have teamed up with AMREF Kenya and all the money donated will go to their account,” he said.

Advisory committee

He added: “We will also have an advisory committee to ensure that the money is used for the intended purposes.”

Renowned gospel DJ Moses Kimathi, also known as DJ Moz, said it was time for Kenyans to come together again and help those in need during these challenging times.

“Most families do not even know what they will eat. They have nothing to put on the table for their families. Covid-19 has messed up some lives. The event is all about standing with other Kenyans and assuring them that we are in this together. Let us give hope to someone who has lost it,” he said.

Rapper Nyashinski, who held his own successful virtual concert in April, said it was about time to engage in activities that would change people’s lives without expecting anything in return.

“This is something I feel very strongly about and proud to be a part of,” he said.