Sawa Sawa Festival: African celebration of music and culture

When you think of the SAWA SAWA festival, what comes to mind?

If the mention of the festival elicits visions of an African celebration of music, then you’ve got the art of what it’s about. The science is abit trickier as it takes an appreciation of all the preparation that goes into it; both from the artists’ and the organizers’ perspective.
But i’m not here to discuss the organization of the event (which i will however say was professional). Let’s talk about the festival. The first thing that struck me was the number of African Kenyans present. Usually, cultural events are graced by expats but this one had a good mix of both. Very impressive!
There were t-shirt vendors et al and if you were there and you know someone who is into African jewellery but they missed the festival, call them up and repeat after me: “It sucks to be you!” Because it really does. The necklaces and chockers that are all the rage these days were actually on sale at pocket friendly prices.

And the kids had also been taken care off with cotton candy and popcorn and this big baby right here had some irrespective of the odd looks being shot my way. What can i say, i have a sweet tooth and cotton candy hits the spot.

Back to the music. Whoever came up with the idea of having the performers fuse their respective genres with an Afrocentric live band performance is a genius! It was this idea that brought the performers to life! And when the performers are charged, the crowd atmosphere is electric. Everyone was dancing, everyone was swaying, everyone was gyrating to the music.
Next time, make sure you’re present. There is ample security, abundant talent and crazy, mad, insane, retarded and frenzied fun! Make a note to attend the next edition!