Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) has once again brought the fans a thrill beyond age sets and age groups, as the Future experience offered the attendees a throwback experience of grandeur at the Tusker Oktobafest. The air was electric as thousands of attendees gathered to witness performances from the artists who defined a generation.
As the launch of the nationwide Tusker Oktobafest celebration went down within the chilly city this weekend, the evening through the night offered fans not only an unforgettable 2000s ‘Kulture’ throwback but also sing alongs, with sweat and classy looks.
I can attest to the fact that Saturday, October 4th at the Carnivore Grounds, was more than a memorable night as it gave resounding, nostalgic tribute to the golden era of Kenyan music, perfectly blending local beer and vibrant culture.
The event marked the first major stop in the deconstructed festival’s nationwide tour and delivered on its promise to bring the biggest hitmakers of the decade onto one epic stage, with songs reminding the fans of their days back, ages when music was renowned on stereos.
A conversation with a fan would reveal how much the throwbacks mean to her as she elatedly broke down how seeing her teenage years’ celebrities perform reminded her of the days she was in her primary school.
“This is more than a party to me, this is a celebration of life,” she screamed before taking off as the first couple of the industry Wahu and Nameless took the stage.
The lineup was stacked with Kenyan music royalty, Attendees were treated to performances from Nameless and Wahu, delivering their iconic hits; pioneering hip-hop group Kalamashaka; chart-topping ensemble P-Unit; the legendary trio Kleptomaniax; Genge maestro Jua Cali; classic hitmakers Big Pin, Mr. Lenny, and Prezzo; the influential duo Necessary Noize; and the soulful Sainapei.
The night’s soundtrack was expertly curated by Kenya’s most celebrated DJs, ensuring an uninterrupted flow of nostalgia with crowd favourites DJ Pinye, DJ John Rabar, and DJ Nijo commanding the decks as fans danced through the drizzles care-freely.
The night full of revelling couldn’t it have gotten better than this as the energy high remained high as the tone was well set by charismatic hosts Muthoni Bwika and the legendary Jimmi Gathu who broke the norm by MCing the event in a dynamic radio show format.
According to Fakii Liwali from the Kulture team, the team and Tusker working to bring this experience to life has been amazing considering the mostly forgotten 2000s role in defining the uniquely poised Kenyan sound.
“The 2000s are a a real definition of Kenyan music and this is clearly reflected by the massive turnout proving that the music and the culture are timeless,” said Fakii.
The revelers also had an opportunity to experience the premium taste of Johnnie Walker, the event’s key sponsor, at its flavour lounge, where guests sampled an array of signature cocktails served for free.
The brand’s participation further emphasized its continued investment in Kenya’s creative economy, supporting platforms that celebrate music, culture, and local talent.
In a conversation with the Senior Brand Manager Tusker, Brigid Wambua, she revealed that the Kulture night wasn’t just a concert rather it was a cultural reunion. She lauded the artists for the passion showcased as they had fans glued singing along, adding that for her seeing artists who shaped a generation share the stage and feeling the passion from the attendees confirmed that Kenyan heritage is alive and thriving.
“This is exactly the spirit we want to carry across the country as Tusker Oktobafest connects with local communities and celebrates what makes our beer and music truly Kenyan,” said Bridgid.
Tusker Oktobafest is set to continue its regional journey throughout October and early November, bringing the celebration closer to beer lovers across Kenya. Don’t miss these upcoming festival stops.
Tusker Oktobafest is set to continue its regional journey throughout October and early November, bringing the celebration closer to beer lovers across Kenya. Don’t miss these upcoming festival stops:
- Rift Edition: October 11th at Tamasha, Eldoret
- Coast Edition: October 18th at New Big Tree, Bamburi
- Lake Edition: October 25th at Atella Beach Resort, Kisumu
- Mountain Edition: November 1st at The Stinger Lounge-Kinyuki, Nanyuki
In addition to the main festivals, Tusker Oktobafest will be supported by over 200 on-trade activations nationwide. Beer enthusiasts can also look forward to flash sales and exciting discounts on their favourite KBL beers, including lagers, stouts, ciders, and malts. These exclusive offers will be available on ke.thebar.com and through select e-commerce partners.
For more details on the festivals and ongoing promotions, follow @TuskerKenya on Instagram and Facebook.
