Technology is changing the way we live—for better and for worse. It has infiltrated our everyday lives and permeated every aspect of our society, making us still more depended on our gadgets and high-speed Internet connection— sometimes to the extent that we feel lost and naked when the KPLC power cuts hit us.

In many ways, technology is making us better, faster and stronger. It is the extension of the human mind, allowing us to reach far beyond the boundaries of our bodies and own intelligence. We have more information; more communication; more art being produced—reaching ever-increasing numbers of people. This is potentially making us smarter, but navigating this sea of information is also becoming harder and harder. This has changed the game for traditional media outlets.

A big part of the challenge for media today is to harness and interpret the floods of information washing in on our shores, picking what’s most relevant for the reader. When the whole world is trying to tell you something at the same time, you need someone to help you find the significant voices, or everything becomes noise.

In the world of arts and culture this is more relevant than ever. Every writer has an outlet on his/her blog; musicians can circumvent record labels and reach their fans directly through mobile technology; artists can sell their paintings through online galleries. The audience of millions is only a mouse click away.

In this great democratization of the art industry, the middleman is taken out of the equation. It has leveled the playing field for struggling artists who have nothing more than their raw talent. But is this an overall improvement?

To some extent, increased access to instant publishing tools has spurred a movement towards mediocrity. The many mobile and Internet platforms have created an outlet for undiscovered genius, as well as ushered in the era of amateur hour.

This is why gatekeepers of “quality” are more relevant than ever. Traditional media needs to rise to this challenge, focusing on quality content that has the power to enhance the lives of its readers. We strive to be one of those gatekeepers, to the best of our abilities, and each month keep shining the spotlight on the best and brightest of what Nairobi has to offer.

And, while the world keeps moving faster, we treasure the moments where you can lose yourself in the printed pages. In this issue, we introduce you to the black-and-white photography of Zia Manji, take you all the way down to Camp Mulla’s “Funky Town” and share the magic of the just-concluded Slum Film Festival. You can also take a stroll down “Silicon Avenue”, and get an overview of who to look out for and where to find them. Discover for yourself if online accountability is a thing of the future or simply a mirage.

Lastly, we’re excited that the StoryMoja Hay Festival is back in town, especially because the “UP Lounge” will host writers’ workshops and discussions with Ross van Horn on harnessing creative energy, as well as a party with our in-house Deejay Bo. We hope to see you there.