It’s July in Nairobi, which means grey cloudy weather and temperatures ranging from 13-15 degrees on extremely cold days. It also means low season, a chance, if you can, to escape the cold and head out to the coast. Some people love this weather others hate it, either way Friday Fresh is here to help you get through it.
New Music: Decide by Nviiri feat. Bien
Nviiri’s new song Decide is a big change from his first hit, he is a boy in love and the lyrics and video are giving Swahili Nation (IYKYK). Of course Bien had to bless the track with his trademark voice. Loving the video, makes you want to escape the cold and play the song beach side while enjoying a Dawa or caipirinha.
In The Know: Monkey Pox in South Africa
South Africa has reported it’s first case of Monkey Pox. According to the Ministry of Health, the patient was a 30 year old man with no known travel outside of South Africa. Contact tracing is currently underway. Monkey Pox usually presents with a chicken pox like rash, high fever and swollen lymph nodes. Last week the WHO maintained that Europe remains the epicenter of the epidemic and talks are underway to discuss whether it will be classified as a global health concern.
The Swaiba Hangout

Come join the Afrinado at the hottest hangout of the June organized by Swaiba Podcast x Baraza Media Lab x Sema Box. Re-mixing networking in Nairobi, Swaiba Hangout hosted by Nyambura Mundia (@nyamburamundia of Swaiba Podcast) and Wanjiru Nguhi (@wanjiru_nguhi of Mine Is A Comment Podcast). They’re bringing jokes, wit and possibly dances. Activities will include; The Slay Queen Debate: We believe that we can and must reclaim discriminatory languge used against women and the LGBTQIA+ community as a form of protest and resistance, The New Homies Quiz with The Afrinado: on everything from Afro-pop culture to politics. No need to come with your own team, you will be paired you up with some new homies. Plus, cocktails by mixologist extraordinaire Kelly and a killer DJ set by DJ Queen Mish. I will be giving out a free ticket so stay glued to @theafrinado. Tickets at Sh1500 from 6pm to 9pm at Baraza Media Lab, Riverside on 30th June 2022.
Watch: Joys Garden

If you are looking for something to warm your heart and start off a great evening, head over to Unseen Nairobi and catch Joy’s Garden a short film written and directed by Ngwatilo Maawiyo. Afterwards chill out and enjoy the view from Unseen’s rooftop restaurant. Be sure to have the Korean chicken, great cocktails while at it. Read the review: Joy’s Garden
Read: Luster by Raven Leilani
The Afrinado’s current book read is Luster by Raven Leilani. Tired of her seemingly failing life, twenty-three year old Edie gets involved with a white middle aged activist in an open relationship. The couple soon invite her to move in with them and as black woman she finds herself bonding with their black adopted daughter. Leilani weaves a funny but poignant tale on sex, belonging and racial politics.
Have a great weekend ahead Afrinados!