NAI NI WHO? Ends but Conversations Follow
It didn’t matter, for the people who came out, that last weekend Nairobi was experiencing one of its coldest weekends. It was the finale of the city’s first city-wide festival, NAI NI WHO? And city-dwellers had braced themselves for the final celebration of just, what it means to be Nairobian. Fans, youth groups, the organizers of Nai Ni Who?, together with curious followers converged at the CBD and paraded to Uhuru Park where the Kenya Police Band and the Salvation Army Band performed in a street carnival, that later led its way around the city’s avenues and roads from Haile Selassie Avenue, Uhuru Highway, Moi Avenue to Koinange Street.
The parade had vibrant mood, enticed by entertainers like the XYZ puppets satirically depicting President Uhuru and Honourable Martha Karua. A lot of businesses came to a standstill with the passing procession. People broke off from their normal routines to either catch a glimpse of the loud parade, or join the fun. The train stopped at KICC where comedian cum mcee Chippukizzey took to the program of activities that included jokes and live music performances from some of Nairobi’s finest artists including Juliani, Juacali and Kidum among other upcoming artists from different neighborhoods. Later in the evening; organizers; volunteers, partners and the friends of NAI NI WHO were treated to a sumptuous dinner at the Sarova Stanley; in appreciation and recognition of their support and valuable contribution.
NAI NI WHO festival travelled around Nairobi’s neighborhoods between 11th May – 3rd August in various celebrations of the city that included photo exhibitions, music performances, film screenings, acrobatics and carnival shows, traditional festivals and round talk discussions. Here is a quick look back at when it first kicked off.
All these unearthed Nairobi’s history and pride that has left many Nairobians in awe of their city and converse more about Nairobi. It was a befitting grand finale of the NAI NI WHO Festival and UP Magazine applauds the GoDown Arts Centre and all those who were part of such a wonderful experience, all in the name of embracing our city and identity.
For more on the festival, visit www.nainiwho.com
