Events - we get invitations to them daily, we attend them daily, we hear about hundreds of them monthly. From glamorous affairs - fashion events, eat outs, barbeques, book signings ,wedding affairs to adrenaline-filled events - kids festivals, safari rallies, sport events, from music festivals and concerts and house parties and traditional theme nights to art galleries and exhibitions, name it all. They've coloured Nairobi's bustling party scene and nightlife, attracted people from all walks of life and perhaps earned Nairobi the name 'the city that never sleeps'.
At least I can attest that every one of my friends has attended an event or so, if not, that's probably a black sheep in this city. Personally, been to
quite a number, maybe sampled almost every category, say for a few although I would really love to attend a barbeque and a cake tasting, or possibly hold one- not bragging, I have been told my chef skills ain't bad at all.
Anyway, let's consider the few that have really created quite a buzz to the Nairobi party scene. Here, social events have starred strongly with Muthoni 'the drummer queen's Blankets & Wine leading in my opinion , followed by 'The Mingle ' and 'The Circle'. I would particularly applaud Muthoni's idea of Blankets & wine- it's very authentic, well thought and executed especially for the reknown artistes who perform music with an impeccable touch of Africa in their swing and beats -always breathtaking. The crowds that turn up tell it all: it leaves out no race, meaning it certainly has international capability. I understand that it has already touched base in neighboring Uganda. Another close second are the themed 'traditional ' nights like mugithi & mulembe nights. Despite the simplicity in their execution, they've managed to attract all communities ,
even the 'mzungu' in song and dance over finger-licking traditional delicacies.
Make a point attending several and you will get a taste of the Kenya's idea of 'celebration'. A typical Kenyan youth will celebrate to pretty much anything - be it completion of exams at school, end of a stressful week at work or school, a job promotion or even a mere day off work.
Thus, event organizers have made a pretty good effort at commercializing this industry, but are they aware it's a recognized form of tourism? Yes,it is
and it's known as events tourism.
Apparently, it has been more commercialized in other countries especially Europe
with a country like Singapore holding beer festivals that
attracts a multitude of tourists from all over Europe for a single event, maybe one week long. We are no strangers to sports tournaments, premier leagues, marathons and world cups all over the world. These
simply are perhaps the biggest events ever as millions of fanatics flock into stadiums to
watch their teams play, but that's a discussion for another day.
All in all, Kenya is an indisputably rich country in talent and resources. Visit an art gallery or two, you
will see it firsthand or consider it a one in a few chances if you witness the artists working on hand. Back last
year, I happened to visit a gallery in Lonrho building right within the busy city center . A particular portrait of a peacock drew my eye and since then I could only imagine it standing as a magnificent centre piece in my living room one day.
The idea of original works of arts being executed into huge international events is appetizing. Currently, the existing ones are small scale projects, facing financial hurdles and in need of sponsors.
The ministry of tourism and the ministry of Sports,the arts and cultures have a responsibility to boost the industry and it should start with what's at hand. Event organizers also come to play where they should start focusing on events with a positive touch, to show that it's not about partying every time but we also need to appreciate what's worth and also sell our idea of 'sherehe' - Swahili connotation for 'Celebration'- and sell it internationally. Private sectors and local investors need to be called in to fund and nurture local talent and transform it to business. In the end, it's all win-win.
Finally, to my talented fellow youth, why not grab this opportunity? We are definitely supercharged and define talent way better than our older generations. Ideas are limitless, possibilities endless. All we need is a leap of faith,to take a first step on that journey of a thousand miles.
I say power to Kenya!!
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