The new Kenyan documentary titled ‘MADARAKA’ (Swahili for Freedom) highlighting the power of culture and need to emphasize on youth empowerment in local communities launched in Nairobi (28th September) at the Michael Joseph Centre and in Kisumu (30th September) at the Young Generation Centre. The documentary shot in Nairobi and Kisumu spotlights renowned Kenyan artistes: Sauti Sol, Owuor Arunga, Sosuun and Nazizi, Ghanaian artiste Blitz The Ambassador and the founder of Sarakasi Trust, Marion Op het Veld. All the personalities featured in the documentary encourage self-reliance through creative collaboration.
Speaking at the Kisumu launch event, The Founder and Executive Director of One Vibe Africa said, “Our ultimate goal is to expand this model beyond Kisumu and especially around Africa in the next 20 or so years. We believe that the work we are doing is necessary to other communities that have similar needs,” adding, “that is part of why we made this documentary so that we can expand our global footprint and people can see this it and ask questions and get curious and allow us collaborate.”
During the launch, versatile instrumental group – The Nairobi Horns Project (NHP) delivered a special performance at the Nairobi and Kisumu events. They were also joined on stage by Kisumu based music group – The Creative Band Music (CBK). NHP has worked with One Vibe Africa before as part of the instrumentalists who performed at the Made In Kisumu Festival in Kisumu in October 2015, after which they engaged in collaborative sessions and knowledge sharing with One Vibe in 2016.
The powerful film was produced by One Vibe Africa and Zaki Rose documents the beginnings and growth of One Vibe Africa as an international organization. Wael “L” Abou-Zaki the director and writer of ‘MADARAKA’ said, “The documentary is to showcase the effect of what happens when you change the narrative in your mind and more so how youth empowerment can effect a positive change on the whole community. We hope that this can inspire the youth to work together to grow their communities.”
‘MADARAKA’ takes the audiences through Kenyan culture and current trends while showcasing a recording music studio founded by One Vibe Africa and some of the activities and projects carried out by One Vibe Africa for the community. The documentary also highlights workshops conducted by world-renowned artists and innovators to discuss topics related to Madaraka the documentary and concept, and the culture of Africans.