Hundreds attend Kosgei album launch

By Titus Too

Hundreds of Gospel fans braved a scorching sun to witness the launch of Emmy Kosgei;s fourth album in Eldoret Town at the weekend.

Ms Kosgei, the Female Artist of the Year 2010, officially launched Ololo (No turning back) during a well-attended function at the Poa Place Hotel.

Residents were treated to a rare Gospel Music extravaganza by leading artistes including Kosgei’s mentor, Esther Wahome, Daddy Owen, and Joel Kimeto.

The latest album contains 10 songs in a mix of Kalenjin, English and Turkana.

The musician is reputed for her hit song: Taunet ne leel (a new beginning) and she also scooped the Rift Valley Song of the Year title during last year’s Groove Awards.

Female Artiste of the Year, 2010, Emmy Kosgei launched her fourth gospel album at the Poa Place Hotel in Eldoret Town at the weekend. Photos: Kevin Tunoi/Standard

Four MPs and various religious leaders attended the function where they praised the country’s youth for exploiting their talent through music.

The leaders included Eldoret North MP, William Ruto, Kazungu Kambi (Kaloleni), Eugene Wamalwa (Saboti) and Linah Kilimo (Marakwet East).

Mr Ruto said youth should be given the chance to explore their talent and participate in nation building.

"Our youth face challenges of unemployment and regions of the country are hit by hunger and high poverty levels. Exploration of talent will empower our youth," said Ruto.

The Eldoret North legislator described the region as "a town of champions" and praised youth for exploiting talents especially through athletics and music.

Ms Kilimo lauded female artistes who have demonstrated their abilities to compete fairly with their male counterparts.

Worldwide Gospel Church of Kenya Assistant Bishop, Eliud Karanja, led a prayer session before the launch.

Kosgei’s father, the Reverend Jackson Kosgei, who is also the Worldwide Gospel Church of Kenya Bishop, attended the function.