Tomorrow, Saturday, 8 August, the Nairobi KICC will host the fifth edition of the Mkisii Fest Experience. This event has become a major cultural landmark in Kenya.
Ahead of the show, founder Victor Nyaata spoke exclusively to Mpasho’s Moses Sagwe about the festival’s growth and its future.
Ending Cultural Marginalisation
The Mkisii Fest series began with a clear mission. It wanted to give the Abagusii community a dedicated space in Kenya's urban entertainment scene.Nyaata believes the festival has achieved a powerful shift in how the community views itself.
"Mkisii Fest has stamped the authority in bringing omogusii together for Culture and Music," Nyaata told Mpasho. He noted that the community previously felt left out of the national entertainment conversation.
Investing in the Experience
For tomorrow's "Experience 5" at Nairobi’s KICC, Nyaata is promising fans a more polished production. The organisers have focused on the technical quality of the show. They want to ensure the audience feels they are getting more value for their time and money.
"This time we have heavily invested in the experience," Nyaata said. He is confident that the upgrades will be visible from the moment fans walk in. He added: "They should expect electrifying performances and worthwhile experience."
Adjusting to a Remote Partnership
One of the biggest changes for this edition is the absence of co-founder Cyprian Osoro. The popular comedian recently relocated to the United States. This move has forced the team to change how they manage production and co-hosting duties.
When asked about the impact of Osoro’s absence from this time’s event, Nyaata’s response was brief and resolute.
"Life must go on," he stated.
The Mkisii Fest events typically showcase traditional instruments like the obokano and serve local delicacies such asmatoke and managu. They provide a platform for both traditional elders and modern pop stars from the Gusii region to share one stage.
