2025 begins with a bang: How Kenyans ushered in the New Year

Spectacular fireworks dazzled the Nairobi city skyline as thousands of revellers thronged entertainment spots and worship centres to usher in the New Year.

With huge concerts that featured leading music stars from across Africa having been sold out, as were hotel dinner bookings, Nairobi came alive to wish away 2024, believed to have been economically tough, in hope of a better 2025. It was the midnight call in many city churches where Christians gathered to reflect, give thanks and pray to God for a better new beginning.

Among the big open-air bonanzas in the city were the Raha Festival held at Uhuru Gardens and the Churchill Live show, which was hosted at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).

The Raha Festival, a two-day affair, kicked off on Monday with scheduled performances by Lovince Mckenzie, Vic West, Fathermoh, Lil Maina, Ndovu Kuu, Harry Craze and Mista C, creating an epic stage atmosphere ahead of the headlining Jamaican dancehall star Shenseea, who was to climax it all during the New Year’s midnight hour. In the line-up too was Tanzanian singer Ali Kiba. The concert had attracted over 10,000 fun lovers, and even after a good celebration that was manned by heavy security provided by police officers and private guards, some fans forcibly broke in, creating unease just after the midnight hour.

Shenseea, who had showcased a powerful performance, was forced to cut short her show as security details took charge to maintain calm. After calm returned, the show went on with party lovers dancing into the early hours of the New Year.

Also joining the long list of entertainers at the venue were Nigerian BNXN FKA Buju, Ya Levis, Victony, Marioo, Njerae, Mutoriah, and Zeman.

At KICC, the Cross Over edition of the Churchill Show had an impressive line-up with the likes of Christina Shusho, Israel Mbonyi, Joel Lwaga, and Wilberforce Musyoka, among other gospel artistes, showcasing solid performances.

Known for its epic nightlife and as the nerve centre of entertainment and hospitality in the region, there was literally a package for anyone who cared to celebrate. From the streets in Nairobi CBD to estate pubs and five-star hotels, creativity and culture fused as food assortments and drinks made a major part of the celebrations.

The Safari Park Hotel and Casino had registered full capacity booking for both its accommodation spaces and the New Year dinner party. Traditionally known to fuse cultural diversity into its New Year celebrations while entertaining local and international visitors, the venue was the choice spot for thousands. Performances by the International Safari Cats Dancers and Acrobats were spectacular and unique, as was the presentation by country music singer Steve Rogers. Adding to the allure were African delicacies such as nyama choma, which provided a culturally awe-inspiring experience for foreign visitors.

The Carnivore Hotel had also registered full bookings, as had Ole Sereni Hotel along Mombasa Road.

At the Agha Khan Walk in Nairobi’s CBD, thousands of Kenyans braved the chilly weather as the Street Praise Pop-Up Concert kept them grooving. Gospel singers Guardian Angel, Jabidi, Karura Voices, and other acts performed.

In Eldoret, Kenyans enjoyed an entertaining and uplifting gospel experience at Eldoret Sports Club during the annual Pamoja Concert. The concert was packed to capacity, and revellers had the time of their lives. There were amazing performances from a wide range of gospel artistes from Kenya and other countries. The event was attended by high-profile artistes and political leaders, such as Uasin Gishu Governor Bii Chelilim. Prior to the gospel-oriented event, he expressed his gratitude and encouraged people to begin the New Year with a Godly experience.

"As we countdown to the crossover, let us unite in gratitude to celebrate the abundant blessings God has granted us at the Pamoja concert, right here in our city," Governor Bii Chelilim said.

The high-profile gospel artistes who delivered electrifying performances included Emmy Kosgey, Daddy Owen, Rose Muhando, Solomon Mkubwa, and Mercy Masika. Other local artistes also left the attendees feeling blessed as they crossed over into 2025. They included Cathy Komen, Christine Otieno, and Mum Chero.

The Pamoja Concert was aired on KTN, allowing people at home to experience a glimpse of what was happening in Eldoret city.

Machakos People’s Park saw gospel singer Bahati led tens of artistes from the Eastern region for the Vuka Mwaka concert.

At Kisii State Lodge, President William Ruto put on a brave face, shaking a leg to the famous Kasongo tune, which has been used previously by netizens and party seekers as a protest song against his regime.