The Bob Collymore International Jazz Festival (BCIJF) is set to return for its highly anticipated third edition, taking place on February 15, 2025, at the Carnivore Grounds in Nairobi. This year’s festival promises a dazzling mix of local, regional, and international talent, as the event continues to build on its legacy of celebrating jazz music and supporting the creative economy in Kenya.
Among the confirmed performers are two exciting Kenyan acts: the Kaima Mwiti Quintet and Judah and the Tribe. Kaima Mwiti, a gifted jazz pianist, has earned recognition for his deep passion for the genre and his innovative approach to jazz. His music draws inspiration from Kenya’s rich cultural history, blending local influences with classic jazz forms. The Kaima Mwiti Quintet has shared stages with notable international artists like Jonathan Butler and Jacob Asiyo, with Kaima also co-hosting Capital FM’s Jazz Club.
Joining him on stage will be Judah and the Tribe, a dynamic 9-piece Afro-jazz band based in Nairobi. Led by trumpeter Judah Onesimus, the band was formed in 2021 by a group of music students from Kenyatta University. Known for their infectious rhythms and authentic exploration of Kenyan musical palettes, Judah and the Tribe have quickly established themselves as one of the most promising bands in the Afro-jazz scene. The band’s arrangements and compositions are driven by a collective passion for music that transcends borders and resonates with audiences from all walks of life.
The festival’s diverse artist line-up will also include international performers from Germany, Mozambique, and Barbados, details of whom will be announced soon. The event will feature performances supported by the youth orchestra Ghetto Classics and celebrated DJ D-lite, ensuring an unforgettable experience for attendees.
The BCIJF stands out not only as a celebration of jazz but also as a catalyst for positive change in the Kenyan music scene. Proceeds from the event go towards supporting music education for young people through initiatives like the Ghetto Classics programme. These funds help provide artistic expression and educational opportunities to youth who may not have access to them through traditional education systems.
Tickets for the festival are now on sale, promising another sold-out event that will bring together jazz enthusiasts from across East Africa. Previous editions have been a resounding success, offering family-friendly, crowd-pleasing performances that highlight the power of music to connect communities. As the festival grows, so does its impact on the cultural and educational landscape of Kenya.