About
Nairobi is one of Africa’s largest cities and the capital of Kenya. Learn more about Nairobi
Jazz
A formal organization Safaricom International Jazz whose sole focus is Jazz was established in 2014 but Nairobians have had access to Jazz before then. From renowned African Jazz artists like Manu Dibango with hits like Soul Makossa, Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela, and recent key pioneers in the Kenyan Jazz scene that include Afro-Jazz artist Lydia Achieng Abura.
Safaricom International Jazz in Nairobi was launched in 2014. The festival has four areas of focus:
- A one-week long Safaricom International Jazz Festival presented in February featuring local and international artists.
- A celebration honoring International Jazz Day takes place annually on May 1st.
- A bi-annual event, Safaricom Jazz Lounge focuses on live performance at smaller venues.
- A youth music education program Ghetto Classics supported from proceeds from the festival provides low-income youth opportunities to improve their lives through skills in live music performances and income generation.
The Nairobi Jazz scene is growing, thanks in part to the Safaricom International Jazz Festival and its growing list of Jazz artists that include Eddie Grey, Chris Bittok, Kavutha Mwanzia Asiyo, James Gogo, Jacob Asiyo, and the Nairobi Horns Project.
