Internationally acclaimed reggae artiste Alborosie and Lovers’ Rock sensation Don Campbell will headline a landmark charity concert at Nairobi’s KICC Tsavo Ballroom on February 15, 2025. The event will also showcase performances by renowned Kenyan artistes Nazizi, Wyre, and the Gravitti Band.
Beyond entertainment, the concert aims to raise awareness and support for Kenya’s deaf community. The event is organised through a collaborative partnership between Dutch social enterprise The Long Trail’s Roots and Culture Travel brand, the Deaf Centre Kwale (a community hub serving Kwale County and Kibera), Mtaani.com, and King Lion Sounds.
“Don Campbell ranks among the greatest lovers rock artists of all time,” says Edwin Muyera, also known as selector Crown King Tubbs of King Lion Sounds. “His timeless songs, from ‘Storm Is Over’ to ‘That Girl Can Dance,’ are club favorites embraced across generations.”
DJ Heartical emphasises the event’s significance: “The caliber of artistic talent taking the stage is remarkable. These artists have built massive followings because their music resonates with people from all walks of life.”
UK-based Kenyan promoter Prince Otach highlights the event’s unique focus on inclusion: “This concert is dedicated to raising awareness for Kenya’s deaf community. Deaf staff will serve food and beverages using sign language, creating an unforgettable and inclusive experience.”
“This event represents a powerful fusion of music and social change,”
says Jos Wesemann, Managing Director of The Long Trail and Senior Consultant at the Deaf Centre. Born to deaf parents and fluent in sign language, Wesemann has dedicated his career to supporting deaf communities across Africa.
“When I got in touch with Alborosie last year, I invited him to be part of this movement, and he accepted. This will be his first performance in Africa with a band.”
Mr Wesemann’s connection with East Africa began in 2009, leading him to work with deaf communities across Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Zambia.
“There is a severe lack of awareness about deafness in Kenya, especially in rural areas,”
he says.
“Many people mistakenly view it as a mental disability, a contagious condition, or even a curse. These misconceptions must change.”
The concert features several innovative elements designed to promote inclusion:
– Deaf community members will actively participate by selling food and drinks
– Attendees will be encouraged to order in sign language
– On-site workshops will teach basic sign language
– Interactive booths from charitable organizations focusing on disability inclusion, climate action, and food security
Proceeds from the event will support vital social programs benefiting marginalized deaf communities in Kwale County and Nairobi. The initiative aims to challenge misconceptions about deafness and demonstrate the capabilities of deaf individuals in society.
International reggae icon Alborosie, who visited the Deaf Centre in Kwale in November, 2024, has expressed strong support for the cause and eagerly joined this meaningful initiative.
