Kenyan artists have received a warm welcome in Australia, attracting enormous crowds and selling out events in several cities. DJ Joe Mfalme, Mejja, and comedian Njugush are among the stars who have effectively grabbed the Australian audience.
Trio Mio, a Kenyan Gengetone hit, is also planning a tour in Australia. DJ Joe Mfalme chose to make a grand comeback this year, embarking on an incredible 6-city tour that left fans speechless.
I had the pleasure of speaking with DJ Joe Mfalme about his choice to expand the tour, what sets this tour unique from the rest, and the growing demand for Kenyan events in Australia.
DJ Joe Mfalme first visited the country in 2017, performing in four cities - Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, and Brisbane.
This time, in 2023, he expanded his tour to six cities, including Hobart. Despite its remote location, Hobart surprised him with a vibrant Kenyan community eager to attend his show.
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''This time, I did six cities, so nikaongeza Brisbane; it was my first time in Brisbane and Hobart, it's like the end of the world huko Antarctica, so huko ndio nilishtuka kabisa to find that kuna kenyans huko.''
According to DJ Joe Mfalme, the significant Kenyan presence in Australia is the crucial reason for the brisk demand for Kenyan programs.
''Kuna an ancient population ya wazungu, and they are looking for very young Africans who can now work and study, and many Kenyans are doing that; Kalenjins are many unajua hao huitana.''
He claims that Kenyans in Australia have discovered new prospects for education and employment, resulting in a spike in their numbers. As a result, they are willing to pay for entertainment, making Kenyan artists a profitable market.
The Kenyan diaspora in Australia is diverse, encompassing people from various ethnic backgrounds, but the Kalenjin community stands out as a significant force within this expatriate population.
''For me hakuna country nimeenda yani kila mahali unturn t ni akina Chepsos akina Kosgei its crazy hata kwa Embassy nikienda walikuwa wamejaa.''
Kenyans abroad often seek ways to stay connected with their homeland, and one of the most potent conduits for this connection is music, comedy, and entertainment.
''I've been around the world, but the only reason Australia ina stand out is because I went as an individual; it was my tour; it was not tied down to another gig.''
