images by Billy Sketchmaster Mugambi
The Sondeka Festival 2014 went down this past weekend at the Ngong Racecourse bringing 3 days of art, music, dance, theatre and so much more. There was something for everyone; the kids, the artists, the enthusiasts, the old and the lots more not mentioned. All I can say it was an awesome experience and one that taught me a lot.
1. Kenya’s creative industry is on another level
The main aim of the festival was to showcase the country’s creative industry and it did not disappoint. There were all forms of creative arts on display from music, visual art, digital art, craft, photography, robotics etc. If this was just a sample of what the industry has to offer then I can comfortably say we are well on the right track.
2. Kenyan music is as diverse as can be
Gregg Mwendwa aka Dj Tendwa. Image by Billy Sketchmaster Mugambi
When you think about Kenyan music you think about Sauti Sol, Elani, Sarabi, Rabbit, Victoria Kimani and the likes. You’ll be shocked by the diversity that we have in the Kenyan music industry. If you want to listen to experimental sound and local house music then you have to go no further than Santuri Safari DJs. They were playing some sounds that were just out of this world. Add to that listening to Abakisimba Musical Troupe. They do music from African drums and percussions and it is really amazing.
3. If you haven’t make a point of listening to Kenyan rock bands
I had the privilege of attending a performance by Kenyan bands, Dove Slim and Claymore Project. The former entertained us with covers and their originals and it was quite a performance. If you thought that Kenya has no good rock music then you are misinformed.
4. Craftprenuers are taking over
images by Billy Sketchmaster Mugambi
From jewelry made from plastic waste (upcycling) to magnetic bookmarks, craft entrepreneurs are doing amazing things in the industry. We all know about the Maasai market products but there is the new generation of craft entreprenuers that are creating new products mixing the old and the new.
5. Robotics
image by Billy Sketchmaster Mugambi
If you’re are a transformers fan and didn’t make it to the festival then you missed a lot. Kenya is blessed with a diverse range of talent and robotics seems to be up there with the rest. These guys are making things that you only see in movies and it was fun learning a bit from them.