Janet Mbugua joins Citizen TV

Finally after months of speculation, it is finally confirmed- Janet Mbugua is joining Citizen TV.

Word has been ubiquitous that the beautiful former news anchor of KTN who was ‘poached’ by ETV (a South African based TV station) would be joining the Citizen TV.

Janet’s joining the station made news not because of her news reading skills- actually; there is nothing so special about Janet- the only thing that caught people’s attention and made her make entertainment headlines is because of her payslip.

It is said that her pay slip will be reading 803,000 shillings a month. An amount that has got many people’s tongues wagging.

I don’t know if you know anyone in the media circles that earn this much. I don’t myself. Okay, I know one, our own queen of radio, Caroline Mutoko. But Caroline’s salary only matches this if it’s inclusive of the too much work at Radio Africa Ltd as a marketing manager.

In some quarters, this is not so much money. In media, it is. Especially, if the camera men/women and dressers get an average of 50,000 or less.

It’s even worse in some stations that pay 15,000 a month while others don’t pay their staff for three months.

And it’s not just the 0.8 million that caught our attention, something else did. The in -excess of 4.5 million shillings paid to ETV to free Mbugua from her contract in South Africa.

You could be wondering who is Janet Mbugua? Well, Mbugua is 27-year-old Kenyan. She started off on radio as a mid-morning show host in 2003.

In 2005 she took a break from radio and pursued studies in Malaysia. In 2007, she came back to Kenya and worked in television as a travel show host promoting Kenya’s hidden resources.

In the same year, the gorgeous journalist’s talents were noticed and she moved from being the travel show host to reading the news in Nairobi for the Kenya Television Network (KTN), before leaving for South Africa in mid 2009 to join ETV. Today, well, you know that already. KTN? NTV? ETV? No, Citizen TV it is.

Back in 2008/09, KTN was the TV to watch. It was just not easy not to. What of Janet Mbugua, Lillian Muli (Citizen TV) and Esther Arunga in your living room every day? It was a world of bevy beauties.

All said and (un)done, the question is? Is it cheaper recruiting and developing talent or its easy just acquiring the already developed talent and paying more? Well, that is a question that can be well answered by S. K. Macharia.

Don’t get me wrong, I have nothing against Mbugua's salary, in actually sense, I am so happy for her. But if I didn't write this, how else would you have known?

Mr Flava coming to Kenya and the translation of his lewd Nwa Baby Song

Mr Flava whose song Nwa Baby has been getting huge airplay inspite of its lewd vernacular lyrics will be in Kenya on October 15 for Naija Night at the Carnivore.

However, before you plan to attend this event, you may want to know the meaning of some of the words you will be asked by the artiste while performing. So before you reply to 'someone say ashawo'... you may need to check the meaning of the word.

Because I am concerned of what someone might think about you especially our Naija brodas and sisters, I have taken the huge risk of posting a translation of the song in this blog.

Be warned therefore next time you hear the song and start humming or mimicking the words-especially in the presence of a Nigerian- most so if you are a woman.

The song is literally porn in content.

Nwa baby, nye me fege (7x) – Baby Girl give me your vagina
Nwa baby, o kwa Nabania - baby Girl, is this night u will give me
I don hammer no be small, now it's
time to chop money
Somebody say Nabania – someone say it will happen this night
Na takwa ne fe omo wania – please lest chop money and enjoy
See the girls them plenty
Waka waka baby (oh yeah), wuru – walk about baby
wuru baby (oh yeah) -
I go tell my mama, (oh yeah) I go – l will tell my mama
tell my papa (oh yeah) - l will tell my Papa
And I go tell am say (oh yeah) - and l will tell them say
You be waka waka baby (oh yeah) – you are walk about Girl
You be wuru wuru baby (oh yeah) – you are cheating me Girl
Corner corner baby (oh yeah)
Sango sango baby (oh yeah) – you are not straight forward girl
Para rara baby (oh yeah) – l don’t really trust you baby
Oh baby sawaley - Baby open the vagina for me to enter
Sawa sawa sawaley (2x) Open, Open, Open,
Ashawo - Harlot

Kpokpotom kpomkpom, kporokotom - it means nothing but just sound
kpomkpom (2x) - Sound
Kpakolo kpa (3x), kpomkpom - Sound
Ojari kpokpo, ukwu nwa baby – Woman Vagina, Woman waist
Achukwu rege, kpom kpom – Shake ur waist, shake it well
Ashawo, awusha – Prostitute - Harlot
Awusha, ashawo – Prostitute - Harlot
Ashawo, awusha, kpom kpom
Eh eh eh eh eh eh, kpom kpom
Oh baby Sawaley
Sawa Sawa Sawaley (2x)
Ashawo

Nwa baby, nye me fege (7x) – Baby Girl give me your Vagina (7X)
Nwa baby, wa Nabania – Baby girl you will give it to me this night
Na soso walka I come dey go – all the time l move about
Everywhere I go, anai ti fe - anywhere l go, l eat money, also eat Woman vagina
All my guys where una dey – all my friends that are there
From here to saloon hotel – we all move from hair Saloon to Hotel
See the girls them plenty – we see so many girls
Waka waka baby (oh yeah), wuru – they all moving around us, but they all are fake
wuru baby (oh yeah)
I go tell my mama, (oh yeah) I go
tell my papa (oh yeah)
And I go tell am say (oh yeah)
You be waka waka baby (oh yeah)
You be wuru wuru baby (oh yeah) –
Corner corner baby (oh yeah)
Sango sango baby (oh yeah)
Para rara baby (oh yeah)
Oh baby sawaley
Sawa sawa sawaley (2x)
Ashawo

Kpokpotom kpomkpom, kporokotom
kpomkpom (2x)
Kpakolo kpa (3x), kpomkpom
Ojari kpokpo, ukwu nwa baby
Achukwu rege, kpom kpom
Ashawo, awusha
Awusha, ashawo
Ashawo, awusha, kpom kpom
Eh eh eh eh eh eh, kpom kpom
Oh baby Sawa lele
Sawa Sawa Sawale (2x)
Ashawo

Ala de no de, no de - there are different types of female breast
Ala ala de no de, de no de, Ala, we know they there are different types of breast
Ema na ala de no de, no de
Ala ala de no de, de no de, Ala
Ala mama - if the female breast is fine
Wera kagi ji de a ala - l will hold it with my hand
Ala mama - if the breast is fine and standing
Wero noge me jaya ala – l will use my mouth and suck it

What can you do for love? Spanish Duchess can do away with €3.5 billion

There is this incredible story of one duchess giving all her fortune to her children so as to marry the love of her life.

Her name, Oh My God ...I love it. It’s Maria del Rosario Cayetana Alfonsa Victoria Eugenia Francisca Fitz-James Stuart y de Silva. That is actually one name, can you believe it? Amazing right? I have just run out of breath.

Anyway, I was just wondering why she needs to do that. At the age of 85, why does she need a man, seriously? Even if its love? And what happens once she has given it all away? Will the two lovebirds be going hungry or she has some diamonds stashed- away somewhere in a Swiss bank?

The Madrid's Palacio de Lira born has more titles than any noble on earth, besides being a duchess seven times over, a countess 22 times and a marquesa 24 times.

She is also the head of the 539-year-old House of Alba, that apart she does not have to kneel before the Pope and she can ride on horseback into Seville Cathedral.
Am liking this duchess every minute. With all these titles, who need money?

The duchess's personal wealth is said to be something like €600 million ($A820 million) and €3.5 billion.

Anyway, she intends to give all to her children so that they could allow her to marry her love, one Alfonso Diez, 24 years her junior. Did I mention that her children have actually blocked her form marrying this guy?

The guy they feel is out to have her fortune even though the civil servant who also runs a PR business has signed a document rejecting any claim to her wealth.

To win the children, she has already given out six of her children and eight grandchildren a palace each. And I thought someone sending 100 grand to an imaginary lover was absurd.

It’s just funny that her children who are stopping her from marrying this fellow, , as she likes to mention, are all divorced, were all from her first marriage to Pedro Luis Martinez de Irujo y Artazcoz, son of the Duke of Sotomayor, who died in 1972.

Do you think she is rich? - sorry wealthy? I think so. But the not her- she insists she is not that wealthy.

Chaguo La Teeniez (CHAT) 201I...The Losers & The Winners

I know you care about awards. I don’t.

Don’t get me wrong. I don’t just like the Kenyan awards- ooh and several others.

Why? Because they can’t, they haven’t and probably will never pass the test of time - if not- on the very least- credibility tests.

Occasionally though I like to read, watch, hear or Google about awards.

If I have ever written about them- which I highly doubt- is because I care about you not them.

Like I said, once in a while, I like to know about who wins what, where and on what category.

Do I follow any awards in particular? Yes I do.

And it’s just one. The Nobel Peace Prize -and a little bit- just a little bit- The CNN Journalism Awards.

The rest – be it football, BET, Grammy, Groove, CHAT, MTV/MAMA or whatever kind of award there is- I don't care.

However, for the purposes being knowledgeable or keeping abreast with current news and for purposes of meeting social obligations, i do follow.

Why you may ask again? Because all of them are totally stage-managed, money influenced, sponsor- driven and politically influenced.

I am very certain though you wish to know who won what during the just concluded CHAT Awards.

Without wasting so much time here is a summary of those who won.

Daddy Owen topped the list of winners of the 2011 Chaguo La Teeniez (CHAT) Awards held on Saturday 16th April 2011 at the Carnivore Grounds.

The gospel artiste bagged Teeniez Male Artiste as well as Teeniez Gospel Artiste. Gospel group M.O.G and Mr Seed scooped the Teeniez Gospel Song category.

Teeniez Live Performer award was deservedly awarded to Juliani. BMF, favourites to win the Teeniez New Artiste category lost out to Lady B.

Juliani and Daddy Owen were the only Gospel artistes who performed as politicians Fidel Odinga, Martha Karua, and Gideon 'Sonko' Mbuvi joined in the celebrations.

Radio presenter Joey Muthengi and Anthony 'Neo-Soul' Mwangi were the MCs of the show.

Here's the list of winners (in italics and bold).

GENERAL CATEGORY

Teeniez' Male Artist
Jua Cali
Daddy Owen
Nonini
Juliani

Teeniez' Female Artist
Amani
Avril
Size 8
Wahu

Teeniez' Group or Collaboration
M.O.G.
Marya and Avril
P. Unit
Sauti Sol

Teeniez' Brand New Artist
BMF
Lady B
QTY
Rapdamu

Teeniez' Gospel Artist
Daddy Owen
Eko Dydda
Jimmy Gait
Juliani

Teeniez' Gospel Song
Papa God Ooh – M.O.G. & Mr.Seed
Saluti- Daddy Owen & Friends
Wedding Day- M.O.G.
Tobina – Daddy Owen

Teeniez' Hottest Track
Chokoza – Avril & Marya
Get Down – Madtraxx
Kare – P Unit
Saluti – Daddy Owen & Friends

Teeniez' LIVE Performer
Jimmy Gait
Juliani
Redsan
Size 8

Teeniez' Sizzlin' Music Video
Chokoza – Avril & Marya
Genge Love – Nonini ft. Lady Bee
Get Down – Madtraxx
Kare – P Unit

Teeniez' VJ or DJ
VJ Kalonje
VJ Mantix
VJ Rayza
DJ Wesley

Teeniez' Radio Station with Most Hype Presenters
Maina & Kinga'ng'i- Classic 105
Carolyne Mutoko, Jalang'o & Larry Asego – Kiss 100
Shaffie and Kalekye - Kiss 100
Sheila Mwanyigha - Easy FM

Teeniez' Blazin' FM Station
Easy FM
Ghetto Radio
Homeboyz Radio
Kiss 100

Teeniez' Hottest Music TV Show
Crossover 101 – NTV
Kubamba TV - Citizen TV
Riddim Up - K24
Str8- Up Live – KTN

Teeniez' TV Actor
Jobu (Bernard Safari) - Beba Beba, NTV
MaDVD (Brian Ole Ndwala) – Machachari, Citizen TV
OJ (Dennis Mugo) - Tahidi High, Citizen TV
Omosh (Joseph Kinuthia) - Tahidi High, Citizen TV

Teeniez' TV Actress
Gabi (Hellena Waithera) – Tabasamu, Citizen TV
Shish (Shirleen Wangari) - Tahidi High, Citizen TV
Tanya (Sarah Hassan) - Tahidi High, Citizen TV
Tasha (Nancy Wanjiko) - Beba Beba, NTV

Teeniez' TV Drama or Soap Show
Beba Beba – NTV
Changing Times – KTN
Machachari - Citizen TV
Tahidi High - Citizen TV

Teeniez' Brand New TV Show
Changing Times - KTN
Higher Learning – NTV
Machachari – Citizen TV
Nairobi Law – Citizen TV
 
Teeniez' TV Comedy or Reality Show
Churchill Live – NTV
Machachari – Citizen TV
Papa Shirandula – Citizen TV
Sakata – Citizen TV

Teeniez' Role Model
Cecilia Mwanbi
David Rudisha Citizen TV
Martha Karua
McDonald Mariga

Now that you have seen who was nominated and who won, can I ask you a question?

Good, did you see any nomination for KBC program or even an actor or actress from the many programs run by the station? I guess your answer is No! And you are right.

There wasn’t . Why? I have no idea.

I find it odd that of all the programs run by KBC no teenager watches to warrant a nomination.

Can someone/the CHAT organizers sincerely say that there was no nomination at all for KBC?

Second question, where are the majority of teenagers? Is it in the urban setting? Or in the rural setting? Those are good questions but we all don’t have answers.

Summarily though, let’s assume you asked me who should have won or who deserved what they won, here is what I think.

Daddy Owen, Juliani, Churchill, Mac Donald Mariga, VJ Kalonje, M.O.G. & Mr.Seed
deserved the awards, but Avril? Tanya among the many didn’t? Where is the talent? And who the hell is Lady B?

How Safe am I from the Police? A question for the Police Commissioner Mathew Iteere

I am really lost here.

I am not sure if I should be happy or sad.

If you read my last posting, you may have realized that several things have not really been right.

Among the many things I mentioned, there is one that I deliberately avoided and that is about the recent spate of killings of the police by the police.

With your permission, allow me to give some quick facts.

In the last five months, fifteen police officers, including members of the armed forces and civilians have been killed by troubled junior officers- Circumstances? Unknown.

Last being a case where 16 bullets were fired by one Constable Mutwiri during his killing spree at Naromuro police station.

The constable shot at least seven times at his boss Inspector Orwenya as the poor lass stepped out of his bedroom.

From unconnected scraps of evidence gathered so far and some that is of common knowledge, some of the reasons said to be flaming these killings are frustrations within the force including poor pay, favouritism in promotions, depression, distress, poor living conditions, hiring of retired officers on contract, questionable transfers, and appointments without merits, gross indiscipline.

However, one of the most ridiculous argument- which again cannot be dismissed holistically as hogwash is that the police are being haunted by the killings of post -election 2008.

Now my question is how safe am I from thugs, muggers, robbers and the police themselves?

I am finding it easy to believe that I would be safer with a thug brandishing a silver semi-automatic Magnum .44 than a police carrying an AK 47. Why? Because at least I don’t expect to be protected. I am sure of the known. But with the police? I am not so sure about my protection.

It’s funny that police is killing themselves and civilians instead of protecting us. I don’t know whether there are no criminals to be arrested or shot at-at worst but something is definitely not right.

The statistics may appear dismissal but even killing one human being is considered a serious crime punishable by death in some states and life sentences in others.

Fifteen is not genocide but definitely worrying. I don’t know about you but I am.

In many occasions, I am left to wonder where the line between civilian protection and killing is drawn.

If the police cannot protect themselves from themselves yet they are trained, how are we supposed to guarantee our own security? without the training???

To say at this point that I am a worried Kenyan would be an understatement.

The Hague, here we come...finally

It has been such a long time since I blogged- and there are so many reasons to it.

Most importantly is that there has been nothing much to write home about.

Two, there has been almost nothing interesting to deserve a space in my blog page.

Nonetheless, there have been a few things here and there that I guess to an extent deserved some small time attention- and it all has nothing to do with our entertainment scene or total crazy-wild politicians.

See, since the ICC Pre- Trial II Chambers announced that some Kenyans needed to answer some charges against humanity at The Hague, so many things have occurred.

One is that there has high increase in fuel prices, steady rise on food prices, lack of water in our taps and insane hike of matatu (psv’s) fares. For hecks sake we don’t even have condoms! I wonder who is wearing them.

Usually, like you may have noticed, Notes and Quotes does not do this (shiznit) sorry...this kind of stuff- but for the sake of a crying nation and like I had mentioned – some little attention for our six brothers, some rules must be bent.

So here it is, on the seventh of April 2011, six Kenyans will be facing the dreaded Ocampo at The Hague. Actually as we speak, they have already left.

These Kenyans are Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta, Head of the Civil Service Ambassador Francis Muthaura, suspended Higher Education Minister William Ruto and Tinderet Member of Parliament Henry Kosgey who stepped aside to face charges of abuse of office.

Others required to make an initial appearance before the judges at The Hague are former Police Commissioner Mohammed Hussein Ali and radio presenter Joshua Arap Sang of Kass FM.

Before today and several days ago, there was very little chat about these six Kenyans, until the Pre- Trial Chambers II found them with cases to answer.

To say Kenyan politics has never witnessed such a tumultuous politics would be an understatement.

Anyway, let’s stick with The Hague story. So the six had been summoned and just immediately after that, the Kenyan government through its vice president took a very ‘honourable’ task of globe- trotting the world with his shuttle diplomacy – trying to influence other dictatorial states like Zimbabwe, Uganda among others in backing Kenya for a deferral.

He went to almost every continent, country- even in Libya where the leader is now being smoked out from his tents by the Benghazi brothers.

Unfortunately, for our VP the day he was in New York seeking to meet the UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon is the same day the ICC also gave summons for the six to appear before the court.

During this shuttle diplomacy- so much to the dismay and discomfort of many Kenyans, Kibaki was stoking another fire- by nominating Justice Alnashir Visram to be Chief Justice, Prof Githu Muigai (Attorney General), lawyer Kioko Kilukumi (Director of Public Prosecutions) and William Kirwa as Controller of Budget.

When he did that I assume he was wishing that while the VP is running wild to the wild Wild West - like some headless chicken, his nominations would prove to the world that indeed there are reforms going in Kenya and a local tribunal wouldn’t be so bad for the six Hague bound.

Too bad for the old man, he forgot about Sir Newton’s third law of motion...for very action, there is equal and opposite reaction- the prime minister claimed he was not consulted- and the temperatures rose... and rose... and rose...so high for a moment I thought...here we go again- 2008 post elections violence now pre- elections 2011 season one.

Nevertheless, whatever goes up must always come down. The temperatures finally did but only after a long tolerance of political bickering, name calling, public spitting and butt kicking.

On the 22 February 2011 the president swallowed what I would call as the most humble pie of his life- much bigger than the one he swallowed in 2008.

He withdrew his controversial appointees. (Bad things seem to happen to this man from Othaya- in February).

In the meantime, two of the Ocampo six- William Ruto and Uhuru Kenyatta who had been the president most vocal lieutenants went dead quiet.

It finally dawned on the president and the lieutenants that The Hague case is getting nearer and there is a high possibility that they will be going after all.

So what did he do?

This is where it gets interesting.

See, after the withdrawal of the controversial nominees, Kenyans sighed relief.

Finally there was going to be some political peace. It was there yes. Not just for long.

Kenyan government went ahead and hired British lawyers to represent it at The Hague.

The big question was that why did the government choose these two gentlemen over our own Githus and Kiokos, who had been touted as the best of the very best Kenyan lawyers?

As it is, Sir Geoffrey Nice, QC and Rodney Dixon, QC will be representing us come 7th April, 2011.

Sometimes not even your wife or husband is enough. You will need some foreign activity at home. Talk of desperate times.

Finally, did you hear our special programs minister Esther Murugi urging women to strip if Uhuru Kenyatta is detained at The Hague? Can’t wait. On a second thought, some of us are already naked madam minister! What should we do?

Could this be it? Maina Kageni finally quitting Classic Fm?

During this year’s, Fools day, rumor went round that Maina Kageni the Morning Classic Fm breakfast show presenter had moved to Royal Media Services and that he was being paid like the former anti - graft czar Aaron Ringera- a sum of two million shillings.

It was after these rumors that Maina decided to put the records straight and confirmed of having been approached to join Royal Media but quickly added that if he was to move, he would have “to be paid like Ringera” who by then earned Ksh2 million a month as the boss of the Kenya Anti-Graft Boss.

Well this may just come to pass.

Just so that we are clear we don’t do rumors on this site so get it straight.

Maina may be just headed to Royal Media Services after all.

Seriously? And as soon as January if all goes according to plan.

Sources claim that Kageni, who is definitely at his prime of radio broadcasting and currently one of the best radio presenters in Kenya today, may be joining the competition as early as January next year and with a very huge post- The Group Programmes Director.

Nevertheless, there haven’t been any word of conformation or denial from either Royal Media or Radio Africa, however, its confirmed that Maina has been in meetings with the crème de la crème of Royal Media, who now carries the title- the King of poaching TV station- Citizen TV, Hot 96 and at least over ten other vernacular FM stations.

Maina is said to have met with the Royal Media Big shots and placed his demands nonetheless, they station is yet to get back to him.

If Maina was to make this move, then it would be the one that will have him hang his mic as he has said in the past of retiring from radio.

In the meantime,

Popular radio presenters Edward Kwach who have like what now?

This guy have been in pretty all the FM stations in Kenya and Angela Angwenyi formerly of Radio Africa took over the mics at Nation media Group’s Easy FM and is currently hosting a program from 4pm to 8pm.

The duo has already taken over the afternoon drive show.

Kwach is currently co-hosting the program with Angela Angwenyi- the two who have in the past hosted a drive show on KISS 100.

You may have known by now that Muthoni Bwika who used to co-host a program with the DI was fired from the station while the DI was moved back to the late night show.

Just a thought? What happened to investing in new talent? Or should I put it this way? Is there any new voice in the mainstream media?

I guess that’s a question that can be best answered by John Wilkins and the like.

Lillian Muli quits KTN, joins Citizen TV

Lillian Muli-Kanene has moved house.

The beautiful news anchor has left KTN a station owned by The Standard Group to Citizen Television owned by the Royal Media Services.

Lillian joins a long list of her former colleagues at KTN like Catherine Wambua now at Aljazeera, Peter Moss and Munira Mohammed both at DW, John-Allan Namu and Larry Madowo both at NTV, Grace Msalame at Capital Fm , Peter Opondo, Evelyn Wambua, Mike Okinyi, Muraya Kariuki, , Alex Chamwada, Ali Mtenzi, Farida Karoney, Catherine Kasavuli all at Citizen TV, Rama Nyan’g at One FM, Janet Mbugua at E-Africa TV and the controversial Esther Arunga among many others who have in the recent past left the station in such an unprecedented move.

According to sources, Lillian will be hosting “Citizen Weekend” beginning of next year after an execution of an imminent mini-relaunch.

Lillian is said to be so excited about her latest post and said "I feel honored to get this opportunity and I am looking forward to offering my best”.

The presenter has worked at KTN for six years and at one time was even quoted saying that she will never consider leaving KTN- as the station is her life.

Many are nonetheless, wondering just what could have precipitated the sudden change of tone.

Even though she did not and has not offered any explanations about her unprecedented exit at the station; Lillian was quick to add that she left the station in good terms.

Saying that “KTN has moulded me into what I am today and just because I have moved does not mean they were not good employers.”

Lillian is said to have tendered her resignation to her former station- KTN on Saturday and was due for reporting to her new office in the course of this week.

Reliable sources indicate that Lillian was apparently offered her new job by Citizen while she was on maternity leave, and that the negotiations were concluded just after she reported back to work.

But its not just Lillian who is taking the high road, another huge KTN asset will be accompanying her to the Citizen studios.

KTN’s Business Editor Henry Marete who has also quit the station will be joining Citizen TV as Deputy News editor and will bossed by Peter Opondo, who you can clearly recall is another KTN defector.

I want to believe that at this rate, it’s not malicious to say two things.

One is that there is definitely a huge problem at the 15th floor of I&M Building otherwise what would explain this entire mass exodus.

It feels like the Israelites are leaving Egypt.

If that isn’t the case, then Royal Media Services must obviously using under- cut tactics to tame /cut down the competition to pieces or the group has just so much- should I say money to offer.

On other interesting developments,

Liza to play golf with Donald Trump

Liza Mucheru-Wisner the Kenyan in the American reality show the Apprentice finally left the program after being fired.

Liza was fired on Friday but will be playing golf in the final task of the 10th session.

Liza made it to the final three however, was fired because, according to Donald trump, she did not get along with other contestants.

“You are outstanding in every way, but Liza, you are fired”- were Trump’s words.

After the firing of Liza, the remaining two contestants Brandy and Clint had a meeting with Trump on his Trump National Golf Club course in Westchester- NY, where the two learnt their individual assignments.

Reggea Artiste Ginjah slated for Performance in Nairobi

Revelers and party lovers will definitely be spoilt for choice come December 11.

There are two huge events that will be going down on this date thanks to several entertainment labels.

After Tafrija Festival was confirmed to be going down at the Nigerian Diplomatic Compound on this day- and several local artistes having confirmed their participation, reggae lovers have not been left out and will also be entertained by Jamaican reggae singer Valentine Nakrumah Fraser also known as Ginjah.

Ginjah has been slated to perform in Nairobi on the same date. As if that is not enough, come Jamhuri Day ( December 12) another major event- Kikwetu Festival will be happening at Impala Grounds along Ngong Road.

The singer who is popularly known for his tracks "Black Sugar" and "Never Lost My Way" will be in action.

Ginjah was discovered by the reggae sensation Beres Hammond in 1999 where upon noticing the young artiste’s musical gift and potential, invited him to be part of his record label Hammond's Harmony House label.

In 2000 he began recording and by 2001, Ginjah was on a tour opening for Beres Hammond several shows across the major Caribbean cities, Europe, United States among others leaving behind an absolutely satisfied music lovers.

One popular song Ginjah and Beres did together is called Rise Above

In 2004, he moved from Hammond's recording stable to 'I Land Music', where he has so far recorded at least 30 songs.

Since then, the singer has never lost his way and has worked with several other artistes among them the legendary Lionel Richie.

Fishborne entertainment outfit owned by the soccer star Denis Oliech is said to be the event organizers.

Nollywood actress attending the Tafrija festival

After a renowned Nollywood actor Noah Ramsey and Rita Dominic visited Kenya during the Naija night a few months ago, it seems Kenya will be once again hosting another Nigerian actress this time by the name Patience Ozokwor, popularly known as Mama G.

The actress will be gracing the Tafrija Festival scheduled for 11 December at the Nigerian diplomatic compound.

Ozokwor who is frequently typecast in the role of a wicked and bad tempered woman in most of the movies apparently is a soft spoken person.

Her consistency as an actress has led to her being crowned the face of Nollywood and also awarded the Afro Hollywood best actress award.

Tafrija Festival was originally known as “Shangilia Kikwetu Festival. The whole Tafrija concept is based on marketing musicians to the international community.

In the spirit of the festive season some of the proceeds from the festival will be donated to three children’s homes in Thika, Kibera and Kangemi.

“On top of the list of artistes who will be performing at the festival there will be two top Nigerian stars gracing the occasion.

This is to help enhance the bond that continues to form between Kenya and Nigeria.

We would like the event to have both a Nigerian and Kenyan feel to it,” said Dr. Chijioke Wigwe, the High Commissioner of Nigeria to Kenya and Seychelles.

According to sources, this year’s musical festival will be different from the previous years.

This is so because, the artistes have been directly involved in the planning and organizing of the event since its preparation begun.

Not failing to mention that for the first time, a professional producer will run the show.

At least 40 top Kenyan artistes have so far been invited and are expected to perform at the event.

Among the artistes those who have already confirmed their presence for the Tafrija festival include, Makali Sound Band, Makadem, Jaguar, Jimmy Gait, Big Pin, Marya, Juma Tutu Band, Live Wire Band, Madtraxx, Valarie Kimani, among many others.

Poor Churchill

You may have heard by now that one of Kenya’s finest comedian Dan Ndambuki alias Churchill, is under siege. Literally. Thanks to a woman.

Like they say (whoever they are) that behind every successful man, there is a woman.

In my opinion, that expression has long been overtaken by events and should be changed to every frustrated and ridiculously miserable man, there is a conniving, scheming and vulturous woman.

Many men definitely will and attest to this- having been victims in one way or another.

For religious believers, ask Samson who had to confess the secret of his powers to his wife. You and I all know what happened.

Then there are those who believe in legends like Lwanda Magere who again were brought down by the strong mischievous ways of a woman.

And then enter the celebrity world and i am spoilt for choice on just who to give as an example, R. Kelly, Mike Tyson, Michael Jackson, Elvis Presley, etc.

Now adding to that huge list is our own most celebrated, talented and finest top comedian, radio personality and Mc Dan Ndambuki a.k.a Churchill.

For several weeks now, comedian Daniel Ndambuki has been in the media glare after a highly and well oiled group of obscure characters apparently lured him into a well engineered fraudulent romantic den.

The news has got writers , broadcasters, bloggers and all those in the social scene a buzz.

There is no clear version on just what exactly happened.

They have been several versions on what happened though. I have sampled at least three for you.

One is that Churchill was caught red-handed and photographed having relations with a married woman.

Reports claim that he met the woman during one of his live screening of his most rated show “Churchill Live”.

The two started flirting and then a sexual affair started. When this alleged affair was discovered by the husband to the said woman, the comedian was set up.

Sources have it that just when he was getting ready for a treat by the woman, a man with a camera emerged unexpectedly and photographed him naked.

The husband to the woman’s is said to be Nigerian, and wants Sh5 million or release unflattering pictures to the press.

Churchill on the other hand says there was no affair, even though he is yet to provide any substantive statement o the issue. He claims it is a scheme by some Nigerians to try and extort money from him. Something he says he will not oblige to.

The second version confirms that indeed there are pictures of the comedian’s butt naked however, not in bed with anybody’s wife!

The second version also confirms that Churchill is a victim of an extortion ring led by a group of Nigerians- and that Churchill isn’t the first nor the second but the fourth high profile victim of an extortion circle of Nigerians who are setting up influential men with women and taking their pictures in compromising positions.

Its also says that the ring has made a clean amount of cash from desperate men keen on covering their tracks for business and family’s peace.

According to one of Churchill’s confidants, the comedian isn’t denying the reality of nude pictures but there was no married woman anywhere in the picture.

The source says that Churchill was flirting with a young single woman from one of Kenya’s local bank that handles some of his finances for almost a year.

Early this year the lady came to him with a sexual proposition and, like any other man, Churchill agreed.

The woman lives in South C but on this day in question, took Churchill, who resides with his girlfriend and two year old son, to some apartments in Kileleshwa and as Churchill was undressing, some guys came from a room, took his clothes and ran downstairs.

The comedian ran after them naked for his clothes. Its at this process that the ‘photographers’ snapped naked photos of him.

They gave him back his clothes and promised to contact him thereafter. The extortionists is said to have been on his case since January.

They at first demanded Sh10 million before they negotiated the offer downwards to Sh5 million.

The lady was arrested and confessed about the extortionists.

This second version also says that the comedian wanted to come out clean with the story during the live recording of the Churchill Show but title sponsors Safaricom advised him against it.

The final version is that, the woman invited the comedian to her place and having no ill intent , Churchill went, accompanied by a male friend.

What ever occurred from there is only known between Churchill, the girl and Churchill’s male friend.

What can be certained is that a man stormed in, with several photographers who took snaps at the comedian next to the woman, who had stripped naked.

The man is alleged to have now been using the pictures to blackmail the comedian into paying him huge cash of money or else, he releases the photos.

Churchill's Profile

For those that don't know Churchill, well, here is a sample of who he is.

He was born Dan Ndambuki in Machakos District.

He is a very creative comedian, thespian, a theatre director and producer, as well as radio presenter.

Has revolutionized the Kenyan comedy scene with creative and fresh humour in the past few years .

Started by appearing in Redykyulass, a funny television comedy that satired politics and Kenyans peculiarities before starting his own live TV show, ‘Churchill Live’.

A show which by now has an online fan base of plus 200,000 fans on Facebook.

He won two Chaguo La Teeniez Awards this year while last year saw him bag the Best Comedy programme, Theatre Person of the Year and Best TV programme overall at The Kalasha Awards as well as winning Best Narrator at the 1999 Mavuno Awards.


You and I know the truth lies in between those versions and if not with Churchill and the woman in question.

It will be nonetheless, be such a shame to see a person that has worked for 15 years in this industry to be where he is- go down.

This story nevertheless, beats any other recent ones including Avril's and Kaz's nude pictures that have been doing rounds on the internet.

Solemn week for the Celebville

Shaffie Weru and Dj Pinye mourning


This seems to be a somber week for the celebrity in Kenya as Kiss FM presenter Shaffie Weru lost his dad on Monday while the legendary Dj Pinye lost his mum on Wednesday.

‘’My father finally rests… was Shaffie’s status on his facebook wall. Several fans later posted their condolences.

Shaffie’s dad would be laid to rest this Friday.While funeral arrangements are still on course for the late Dj Pinye's mother.

Many condolences to both families.

May God rest their soul in eternal peace?

Elsewhere,

Eve, Gaetano and Capital FM in new negotiations


After word went out last week that Capital FM morning presenters Eve D'Souza and Gaetano Kagwa left the station.

It seems there is new development.

The two presenters are yet to officially leave the station according to sources.

The inside story is that even though the two handed over their resignation letters,last week the presenters are still in talks with the station.

This is totally confusing.

And,

Jua Cali Denies girlfriend is paged

The undisputed King of Genge, Jua Cali has denied a report that his long term sweetheart Liz Munyu is pregnant.

He nonetheless, said that he is planning of getting of married soon ''because that’s God’s commandment''.

In the meantime, the 31 year old Genge artiste who’s currently constructing his bungalow at Kahawa Sukari, Nairobi said he will be occupying it soon.

From Jamaica with broken heart

Alaine: Jamaican producer hurt me

It looks like the beautiful and sensational Jamaican dancehall artiste Alaine Laughton is still bitter with ex-boyfriend and former producer Don Corleone.

The pair had been in a relationship for almost three years before they separated.

There was no comment from the artiste apart from the usual cliché that it’s done we are never going to work together.

Alaine nonetheless, refused to comment about speculations that she is in a relationship with Freddy McGregor’s son Daniel McGregor aka Chino.

Insisting that she is still single.

The two have done a song called Secret Lovers.

Meanwhile, Don Corleone is also said to have moved in with Kris Kelli, the latest girl in his stable and the two have a recorded a song called Moved on.

Looks like everyone has moved one to me. Or is it just a way of comforting broken souls.

The singer who left the country on Monday said she was very excited about the massive turnout at the Sepetuka show at the Carnivore Grounds on Saturday last week.

Alaine is a song writer, singer and producer who has recorded and producer some of her songs.

She is currently working on her new single, Beautiful sisters.


The singer had been in the country for the Sepetuka show where several artistes performed including the sunshine singer and fresh from the maternity ward Habida, the Norway based Stl, and the love child Wyre.

In other news,

Basket Mouth Says I Do

This may come as a disappointment to many young and single ladies out there but the Nigerian comedian Bright Okpocha, also known as Basket Mouth, is married.

The comedian finally said I do to his long term sweet heart Elsie Uzoma whom she has been dating for the last seven years.

Having performed their traditional wedding rites and court wedding a few days before their big day, basket mouth and Elsie were ready for the main event- their white wedding.

The couple has a son, Jason, who was the special guest of honor.

Elsie tossed her bouquet as she danced to Single Ladies while basket mouth replaced the traditional garter toss with a watch toss.

According to Bella Naija reports, the couple met in 2003 when basket mouth visited the university of Lagos campus where she spotted the beautiful Elsie.

It however took a couple of tries from basket and persistence paid of when he finally got Elsie’s number.

Lastly,

Bebe Cool shoots music video in Hollywood

After receiving a huge sum of money from Ugandan president Yoweri Museveni, singer Bebe Cool seems to be putting it in to good use.

Bebe cool accompanied by his wife Zuena travelled to the US courtesy of the rapping president for further treatment after he was shot by Ugandan policemen.

With the remaining cash from the grant, Bebe shot two music videos for his latest tracks, Big size and Till you love me in Hollywood.

The shooting took place at Stevenson Ranch in Hollywood, Beverly hills on Rodeo Drive the richman's celebrity shopping street in California.

The video shooting was unique according to Bebe cool as they used not only beautiful women but also used state- of -the art rides like stretch limo Hummers, Escalades among others.

Media Drama

Gaetano Kagwa and Eve D’Souza Quit Capital FM

After several months as Capital FM’s Breakfast show presenters, Eve D’Souza and her co-host Gaetano Kagwa have resigned from the station.

The two were brought in by the station management to help revitalize the station’s sinking ratings in the prime time show after Fareed Khimani and Seanice left.

The unprecedented departure left many with speculations on what could have just happened.

After taking over from the extremely rated Seanice and Fareed, it’s said that the ratings had gone down a thing that was not amusing to the management. The two has therefore been under pressure to improve the ratings.

What most people don’t understand is before quitting the station, the two had gone for a leave only to come back on air and leave the establishment almost immediately.

Sources indicate that the two handed in their letters last week Friday.

Eve D’Souza who many remember as the popular presenter of a night show- Hits not Homework said that making the decisions was difficult for her.

Eve has been with station for at least ten years.

It’s wait and see as the management seeks to replace the duo. Will Kirubi be heading back to Uganda or will he keep it truly local?

In the meantime, Gaetano seem to be preparing for his flight back home while Eve is said to be highly sorted by several media outlets. Top on the list is the urban One FM formerly Radio One and Classic Fm.

Eve nonetheless, is tight-lipped over her next move even though speculation is rife that she may just stay in the silver screen.

Elsewhere, in the media circus,

Ciku sorted by Civil Rights Bodies and Maina may just leave radio after all


During one of the interviews with Jeff Koinange on the bench,(The Capital Talk) Maina at one time confessed that while having a drink in a pub a man walked towards him and slapped him in the face. ‘That is for spoiling my wife’ the man said.

It seems it’s not only this man has been rubbed the wrong way or should I say not happy with the Maina Kageni and Mwalimu Kinga'ng'i's, no- hold barred content of the morning show.

Rated as the leading show in Kenya, Classic 105′s Breakfast has been given six months to examine its content or face the music. Legally speaking.

This development came about after the two most sorted radio personalities were summoned by the Kenya Film and Censorship Board last week.

The KFCB word was clear. Clean up the air or face the law.

Maina was not happy with development and he may decide to leave radio if bad comes to worse. The morning shows popular topics surrounds marriage relationship and the married. Technically termed as adult content.

Creative Ciku Muiruri on the other side seems to be having problems with Civil Rights after supposedly assuming the HIV status of a woman in her show segment Busted.

The “Busted” segment, has been so far put under notice by the KFCB- who asked the station management to scrap it off terming violations of the broadcasting law.

Both Maina and Ciku's program according to sources were given six-month period to shape up.

Finally,

Grace Msalame Expecting a Double?

Nyota Ndogo, Esther Arunga and now enter another celebrity full of another human being. Grace Msalame.

Msalame joins the already long list of celebrity pregnant the only difference is that Grace is expecting a double, double.

The beautiful and composed TV personality, who once hosted KTN’s “Art Scene” and currently Capital Fm news reader, is weighty with twins and so pleased with the progress.

This couldn’t have come at the best time- just a few months after losing her father and media mogul Tony Msalame.

All the best with the development.

Fun, colour and glamour as Jamahs is launched

Finally, Jamahs is here...


It was all fun, pomp, color and glamor as Journalists for Media Development in Kenya(JFMDK) and Polish East Africa Economic Foundation (PEAEF) launched its first project.

The launch on the 15th October 2010 was the culmination of the project PEAEF AND JFMDK has been working.

After days of waiting, the event was finally here. October, 15, 2010 it was. 10.30am was the time. Sarakasi Dome was the venue. Jamahs Launch was the event and Journalist for Media Development in Kenya and Polish East Africa Economic Foundation were the host.

Several days before this day, there were a lot of happenings, pressure, time-lines, communication and well... never mind. So many things had to be done including the publication of the club's magazines, event’s preparation among many others.

Anyway, I don’t want to bore with the pre-launch activities. We will do that another day.

Right about now, allow me to take you down to what happened at the Sarakasi Dome in Ngara.

First things first though. The introduction.

If you are an ardent follower of this blog, you may have noticed I did a piece about JFMDK.

‘Recollecting my days’ is what I called it. In that piece, I was telling you exactly what JFMDK is all about and what it has been doing. If you haven't read it then you will need to do that.

However, let’s assume you don’t know about this blog or follow it. So who is Jamahs?

Well, Jamahs (Journalist Aspirants in Media in High Schools) is an ambitious project of Journalists for Media Development in Kenya (JFMDK) and Poland – East Africa Economic Foundation (PEAEF) directed to youth involving setting up of journalism clubs in high schools in Kenya

Through the Jamahs clubs, students are taught civic attitudes, critical thinking, tolerance and forming impartial opinions- in this case using journalism as a tool of building civic society.

It also aims at enhancing the standards of journalism in the country and boosting media literacy among the youth.

Since its creation in early 2010, Jamahs has facilitated the establishment of fully functional journalism clubs in the three schools.

The schools included Olympic High School in Kibera, Muslim Girls Academy in Ngara, Nairobi and Heroes of the Nation in Nyahururu.

The project has also trained teachers in these schools to enable them provide on-going guidance and mentorship in journalism to the club members.

The initiative is premised on the thinking that if students in high school can be empowered to become good journalists, they can have a major impact on their communities today and in the future.

The journalism training is basic but sufficient enough to enable patrons and students to publish a newspaper as a culmination on their ability to transform what they have learnt in to practical use.

The first three schools have published their first edition as is shown in the website;www.jamahs.org.

The site provides a comprehensive and up-to-date online source of information on school journalism club activities.

This site also allows the publication and accessibility of the work done by students in different clubs.

The literary work includes photography, poetry, articles and essay writing among others.

It also creates forum for critics, sponsors, partners as well as member clubs to see what they are doing as well as providing free, accurate and independent information on various journalism activities.

Now that you are aware of Jamahs, this is what went down at the event.

The invites were sent, the venue was set-up, guests attended.

The website together with school club’s monthly publication was launched by the Polish Ambassador to Kenya.

Certificates of achievements were given. Winners of the competition were announced.

Then entered entertainment by the Sarakasi dancers and everything just wrapped up so beautifully and so amazingly.

In brief, it was beyond the cliché; pomp color and glamor. It was informative, educative, involving, entertaining and far more career developing.

The event was not just about pictures and people. It was all about telling the public that there is power in journalism- as was explained by the Polish Ambassador to Kenya.

The launch definitely opened a whole new chapter on PEAEF and JFMDK’s page.

Infidelity made in South Africa

What does Mandela, Zuma and King Mswati III have in common?

I really need some one to help me understand what is up with South Africans and fidelity.

It seems these people have serious issues with fidelity. Be it Mozambique, Swaziland, or just South Africa as a nation.

Sometime during my journalism career, I was a radio presenter. During my presentation of a musical program, I used to do some short but true stories about real people and events- just in between music.

One of my favorite was a story about a legend. A living legend to be exact.

The story goes that there was this fierce and highly intelligent politician and freedom fighter. The legend was born and brought in South Africa.

The legend was arrested and put behind bars for close to 27 yeas in some island in Cape Town. Making him one of the longest serving political prisoners in his time.

After serving his jail term, he was released and got back to fighting for the freedom of his people, against apartheid and racial discrimination.

He vied for presidency and won becoming the first black president in South Africa. He retired five years after being president.

During his marriage it is said that one day when the legend was flying in one of the choppers, his wife was having a hanky panky with one of his aides in the chopper.
That story was never proved. But another one was.

This was after the then president and world's most respected statesmen found himself in a Johannesburg courtroom discussing the most private aspects of his life.

He testified that he felt lonely and abandoned by his wife, who cheated on him while he was in prison for 27 years.

He said that years of rumors that his wife had been unfaithful were proven to him when he recognized his wife's handwriting in a letter in which the writer professed love for Dali Mpofu.

Mpofu apparently was Winnie Mandela's lawyer when she was tried in 1991 for her involvement in the kidnapping of four youths and the murder of one of them.
Winnie Mandela and Mpofu never confirmed the estranged affair.

In August 1994, the legend announced he was divorcing his wife. In July 1998, the legend proceeded to marry Samora Machel's widow, Graça Machel.
Making Machel the first lady of two different nations, (Mozambique and South Africa).

Now this legend by now you as you may have figured out was Nelson Mandela who was once married to Winnie Mandela who he divorced on grounds of infidelity to marry the widow of Samora Machel- Graca Machel.

Fast forward to 2009, another huge infidelity in the same soil. This time bedeviling the current president Jacob Zuma.

Once again, the news broke that one of Zuma's wives was sleeping with one of his personal aides.When the word got out, the body guard committed suited.

And then most recently is about the juicy and raunchy gossip about King Mswati III being cheated on.

I guess you know the story by now but if you don’t, here it is.

See, in Swaziland, there is this 60 year-old tradition where the king is allowed every year to marry an additional virgin in what is known as a reed dance.

As it stands right now, the king has 14 wives. Seriously does this fellow satisfy his wives? Unless he keeps a cabinet full of Viagra. No puns intended.

Hold up, just remembered that King Solomon had 1000 wives and 600 concubines/ clandestine. This guy was such a womanizer.

Anyway, back to my story, like I was saying, sometime in August, word had it that Swaziland’s justice ministers and one of King Mswati III closest confidants and childhood friend Ndumiso Mamba, was banging his 12th wife Nothando Dube.

By the way is banging a politically correct word? Never mind. Let’s move on.

The story continues that for several months, Nothando Dube 22 walked out of the palace dressed in an army uniform into a waiting car that drove her to a hotel to meet her secret lover one, Ndumiso Mamba.

The queen is said to have perfectly executed her disguise that left the royal palace without any suspicion. This she did for several months whenever the king was not around.

Until the 40th day when Ndumiso was caught up by the police in one of the hotels apparently owned by King Mswati.

I can’t just imagine the level of migraine the king endured.

Funny thing is that this was not the first time a queen at the palace had misbehaved or shown unfaithfulness. Two queens before her had done it too.

The two queens now live in exile while Dube is currently under house arrest. The secret lover Ndumiso who is apparently married resigned and is said to have been jailed.

However, when you look at this matter critically, you are wonder who to blame.

Should the blame be on the king or on the queen? Many feminists would say the king, while chauvinists would quickly say the queen.

But let’s face it. The king has 14 wives. I am not so sure how he manages to satisfy all of them unless like I said uses some medication.


I am not good at maths, but I can do this simple arithmetic. If the king had three women every week, it would take him at least 4.6 weeks to go full circle.

However, just like every man he has his favorite among the 14 whom he probably spends more time with.

So what happens to the rest of the queens in the colony?

They too just like the others are human beings need attention. The question is? Where do they find it?

They should probably come to Kenya for help. See, in Kenya, wives to MPS and the ilk don’t go any further than their homes.

They sleep with their gardeners, watchmen, guards, cooks. Think I am making this up? Ask Maina Kageni on Classic 105 and you would be surprised,

Back to my story, why does infidelity follow South African leaders like a bad smell? Are the South African men so poor at their game or women are just too demanding?

Probably women should be around to marry more than a one man. Better still. Date opposite sex.

Ends…//

Recollecting my past days

By Ohaga Ohaga

I know many of you would want to know where I have been. Well, I have been pretty much around.

So why haven’t I written anything? Well, I have written so many things. I haven’t just got the time to post them.

So why haven’t got the time. Because of a very simple reason.

I was and still waiting for the new constitution to be promulgated. I didn’t want to be left behind with this euphoria sweeping across Kenya. Anyway, this is what happened.

See, sometime around May this year, just when I had published the last article, (Read Kenya’s musical chairs) I bet so much have taken place in the entertainment industry by now- but that’s a story for another day.

Ok where was I? Yeah, I was telling you about sometime in May. So like I was saying… There is this association called Journalists for Media Development – Kenya (JFMDK)

Journalists for Media Development in Kenya (JFMDK) is an association of journalists who believe in building each other's capacity and promoting scholastic media literacy in the community.

JFMDK believe that the sustainability of a diverse and vibrant media is crucial in the development of a free democratic community.

JFMD-K’S objectives are to impart, improve and help maintain quality Journalism – This they intend to achieve through members and partners we shall directly or indirectly impart relevant skills to practicing and upcoming journalists, Provide practical and material support to journalism clubs and such other groups.

When the association was formed, we didn’t have much to do- actually, we had so much to do. The only challenge was that we lacked resources.

So come May, one of the official partners Polish East Africa Economic Foundation (PEAEF) through Polish Aid officially came on board.

They granted us resources. Don’t ask me what kind of resources. But the resources were granted.

With these resources, JFMD-K started implementing the objectives.

That’s where I came in. As a manager of the project.

The project included running a pilot project in trying to improve the level of education and access to information for teenagers aged 14 – 18 from vulnerable environments in Kenya through high school journalism clubs.

Students together with their teachers were to be given necessary education to enable them serve their communities as journalists. On completion of the trainings students were to be able to produce a monthly school newspaper for their fellow students.

This was not only to aid them in good practice in journalism but also provide information for the community on various issues that are majorly ignored by mainstream media.

This project was also meant to raise journalism standards in Kenya by providing practice to future journalists.

Provide a forum for the ignored opinions to be included in national debate. Support high school journalism clubs to publish school newspapers and link the clubs through a website where they will share news content.

I know by now you are wondering so what have we done so far. Well, 60 high school students and six teachers from 3 schools have been trained on all aspects of journalism and photography.

The schools have provided their respective clubs with dedicated space where students organize their journalism activities.

These rooms have been properly renovated, customized with one nice green color, furnished with quality furniture up and above that provided with computers, with internet and other IT equipment to facilitate publishing of stories for print and online.

Given the knowledge and the infrastructure, students and their patrons have managed to develop their own editorial policies and soon will be gearing to publishing a monthly schools newspaper under the mentorship of experienced journalists from the JFMD-K.

The journalism clubs will also provide news content to a shared news website that will be accessible by over four million Kenyans that have access to the internet.

The schools we have partnered with included- Heroes of the Nation High School - Nyahururu, Muslim Girls Academy- Ngara and Olympic High School in Kibera.

The project has so far been fun, adventurous and really challenging.

I really don’t want to preempt the achievement of what we have done since all this information is available on the association website.

You can access all this info and more about JFMD-K in the site that is under construction or visit PEAEF.COM which is truly an amazing organization to see and read all about its profiles and all the projects it’s working on in East Africa.

Finally I am still good and going strong still glad to have you on board.

The association JFMD-K will be doing a huge launch come October this year so you should probably think of coming.

Before i leave, how about you looking at the pictures of the project and the team behind it.

Standard Group launches new radio station

By Ohaga Ohaga

Standard Group the Publishers of the Standard Newspaper, and owners of KTN and pds have added another fruit to their basket- A new radio station- Radio Maisha.

After several months after the take over of Radio Simba early last year, speculation was rife on whether the station would retain its same, or continue working on the same environment.

That speculation has now been put to rest as the Standard Group launched the new station at their new offices in Standard Center along Mombasa Road.

Rama N'yang in the meantime has joined Radio One broadcasting station on 97.1 after resigning from KTN while Wellington Nyongesa joined the new station Radio Maisha alongside Peter Adamz who resigned few weeks ago from Baraka fm.

Wellington Nyongesa once worked at KTN as a reporter before moving to Citizen TV in the same capacity and later to BBC East Africa Bureau before being poached by Granton Samboja of Milele fm to head news.
As karma would have it, it’s like Nyongesa has gone full circle.

Nyongesa joins Radio Maisha as news editor.

Like Nyongesa, Titi Nagwalla who worked at Milele Fm has also made 360 turn and now works for his former employer the Radio Africa Group.

Nagwalla resigned at Milele fm citing managerial differences and was to join Radio Jambo as programs comptroller and morning presenter.

However, it’s like he only got one position as Carol Radull still holds the position of programs comptroller.
Nagwalla now co-presents with Jacob Mulee at the station.

Still on musical chairs and the cropping up of Fm stations, I truly believe there is nothing new Radio Maisha brought on board.

It's like they just copied and pasted what other stations has.
As matter of fact, they are even doing it more poorly. They have this awful female news reader.

Has Nyongesa ever listened to her?

Musical Chairs as Grace Msalame joins Capital Fm - Ann Kiguta moves to KTN

Was there a horse trading between the two stations?

By Ohaga Ohaga

A few days ago, I did write something on this blog about The Standard Group /KTN’s employees quitting the station to join other media houses.

The article had been prompted by the mass exit of KTN staff that by the end of April had lost very influential TV presenters who included Esther Arunga, Grace Msalame and Rama Nyan’g.

Nonetheless, it was not certain whether Grace and Rama had left or were on leave.

To that effect, I mentioned that Grace Msalame and Nyang seemed to have called it quits with their former employer.

As it turned out, the two have actually moved- with one confirmation being Grace who by this week was reading news on Capital Fm.

Now it is not so clear whether Grace really quit or there was a horse trading between Capital Fm and KTN?

Why am I saying this? I am saying this because many people seem to be wondering just what happened between KTN and Capital Fm that saw their ex employees switching positions- where Grace Msalame joined Capital Fm and Anne Kiguta moved to KTN.

See, Before Grace joined Capital Fm; she had been presenting a feature program called Artscene on KTN.

Anne Kiguta on the other hand was the news reader at Capital Fm. As it stands now, Anne Kiguta has moved to KTN anchoring news while Grace has already hit the ground running with her new job.

Just so that I put you in the picture- especially for those who don’t watch KTN, Grace was a very hippy and voluptuous lady who first graced your TV station as a host of a youth program called Straight-Up. Before moving on to produce and host a feature program called Art scene.

Prior to that, Janet Mbugua was the programs presenter but was moved to anchor Prime Time news on the same station. (Janet has so far resigned actually she resigned sometime back to join ETV in South Africa).

Still on the change of tune in the musical chairs, Ciku Muiruri who worked at Easy Fm and was popularly known for busting cheating couples did quit to join Classic Fm as a co-host of Nick Odhiambo in the evening program.

Before these happenings, Titi Nagwalla who was the morning show presenter and programs controller at Milele fm had resigned and was poised to join Radio Jambo to serve in the same capacity.

This however, did not happen and it’s not clear what happened. Nonetheless, trust Notes & Quotes to bring you all the vibe.

Until now, word is not out on where Rama Nyan'g went. Like I said trust the blog to get you all info as it rolls.

It seems this game of musical chairs never stops.

By the way, Groove awards were great. Very great. That’s the much I can say.

Chaguo La Teeniez or was it?

By Ohaga Ohaga

The first time I had about a writers block, I was reading Stephen Kings’ Bag of Bones.
A well crafted and truly intriguing piece of work.


For those of you who have not read it, well, the book is all about a forty year old bestselling novelist Mike Noonan who after the sudden death of his wife is unable to write. Noonan who is the central character is plagued by vivid nightmares from his summerhouse which he also calls Sara Laughs.

In brief, the book is all suspense, twists and turns.

When I finished the book few days ago, I thought to myself, well things like these only happen to established novelists not writers like me who are still finding themselves.

Until I checked my blog the other day and realized I had not posted anything since January this year. Technically, it s since September last year.

That was the last time I did some serious writing. I am not so sure whether I should still call myself a writer or not.

Anyway, I seem to have overcome the block after all. Thanks to a TV story I watched this morning.

Usually, I don’t give much interest to stories that don’t concern me. However, this was different.
It was all about the just concluded Chaguo La Teeniez Awards (CHAT) - that was held at the Bomas of Kenya last week.

After watching the event it got me thinking- how about commenting about it?

See, the just concluded CHAT awards had so many ups and downs.

Starting by the fact that there were only 6 awards for the teens out of the possible 24.

Secondly, looking at the winners who included OJ, Tanya, Redsan, Juliani, Sauti- Sol, STL, and Churchill among others, I couldn’t identify any teenager.

What happened to those days when the event was truly owned by the teeniez?

As if that wasn’t enough, there was the award of Teeniez Most Hype Show which went to Kiss Fm’s Rush Hour as well as Teeniez Blazin' Fm which went to Kiss Fm as well. Really? How about Ridim Base of Metro Fm?

Has anyone ever listened to this show? It’s awesome.

What was most perplexing nevertheless was the fact that Shaffie Weru who was a nominee was also the event’s MC. Funny ha?

All said and undone, there were some good moments like an award that went to a most deserving person, Churchill’ for Teeniez TV Comedy/Reality Show.

That apart there was this chic with one hell of a sexy dress. Tanya of Tahidi high who scooped Teeniez TV Actress.

Then there was the case of CMB Prezzo overdoing his bling and Dr, Mutua the spokesman struggling to do a jig.

Enough of the CHAT thing. Now to some serious matters.

I am not sure if it’s just me who have noted some usual or should I say unusual tendency with KTN and its employees.

Over the recent few years the station has been expericiencing mass exodus of staff.

It all started with the exit of Swaleh Mdoe, Catherine Kasavuli, and Louis Otieno who ditched the station for Citizen TV. The latter now working for K24.

Soon after, there was the exit of Catherine Wambua- the reporter who left for Al- jazeera.

Before dust could settle, another bunch followed. This time including Alex Chamwada, Farida Karoney, Mike Okinyi and later joined by Anne Ngugi all heading to Citizen TV.

Immediately after that, Janet Mbugua left the station for South Africa to join etv.

This year, there was the unceremonial exit of the Esther Arunga.

Now there are rumors that Rama Nyan’g has ditched the station so has the hippy Grace Msalame of Art scene. And where did Dj Dru of St8p and his co - host Christine go?

Like I said, I am not sure if it’s just me who has realized the station has been losing staff faster than Donald trump can say you are fired or you have as well?

And how come almost all ex- KTN employees have gone to Citizen/ Royal Media. Is true that Citizen TV is the new kid on the block? Or it’s all about the money?

And have you seen their new TV set? I heard S. K. Macharia spent 60 million on it. Can you believe that?

By the way, Groove Awards is here. Can't wait for the winners.