Music

Lynet Okumu

The Kenyan music scene is buzzing with fresh releases and collaborations that are capturing the attention of fans both locally and internationally.

From hip-hop to R&amp;B and love ballads, these songs are setting trends on social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube.

Here’s a roundup of some of the hottest tracks currently making waves in Kenya.

Rapper and mental health advocate Swahili Jangili is back with a heartfelt new track titled ‘Dear God’.

Shot in the heart of Kenya’s ghetto, the song visually captures the daily hustle and silent battles of youth trying to survive.

But this is more than just music—it’s a plea. A prayer for everyone going through the motions, quietly fighting their demons but still holding on to hope.

It speaks directly to those who dream of breaking free from tough circumstances. If you’ve ever felt stuck but still pushed forward, this one’s yours.

Willy Paul, the ever-bold hitmaker, returns with ‘Your Body’, a track that blends catchy beats with smooth, sultry lyrics. It's a certified sing-along and a total earworm.

The music video doesn’t disappoint either. It features sleek choreography and fire visuals, with appearances from top dancers like Prikcy, Nasieku, and Klaus. It's a full-on audio-visual feast that fans can’t stop talking about.

Maandy, the self-styled ‘Bad Gyal’, is serving heat again in ‘Aloo’, her latest Arbantone banger featuring Ajay from the Buruklyn Boyz.

The visuals are crisp and clean, but it’s the confident lyrics that carry the song. ‘Aloo’ tells the story of a baddie who has all eyes on her—and she knows it. She's calling the shots, owning her space, and loving the spotlight.

<h2>Hustla – Scar Mkadinali ft. King Kaka</h2>

Two lyrical powerhouses join forces in ‘Hustla’, as Scar Mkadinali links up with King Kaka for a gritty street anthem. This is an ode to the grind.

Scar brings his raw street flavour, while King Kaka balances it with his smooth, poetic flow. Together, they deliver a rap masterpiece packed with wisdom, struggle, and triumph. A must-listen for any hip-hop fan.

<h2>Niangalie – Kethan ft. Wanavokali</h2>

For the lovers, Kethan has teamed up with vocal powerhouse Wanavokali to release ‘Niangalie’, a tender and emotional ballad.

The song is all about love without conditions—loving someone despite their imperfections and sticking by them no matter what.

The vocals? Flawless. The video? Beautifully shot, featuring real-life couple Brian Muchiri and his girlfriend. It’s a perfect love letter in song form.

After some time away from the spotlight, Mutoriah is back with ‘Nakuombea’, and it’s well worth the wait.

In this emotional track, Mutoriah addresses an ex-partner, wishing her well despite their separation. It’s a mature, heartfelt goodbye filled with grace and closure.

The song features subtle rhumba-inspired beats layered with Mutoriah’s signature style. The video is creatively executed, with top-tier visuals to match the song’s emotional depth.

<h2>Nairobi – Mr Seed ft. Jegede, Trio Mio, Only One Delo &amp; VDJ Jones</h2>

'Nairobi Kanairo', is an explosive collaboration that brings together heavyweights Mr Seed, Jegede, Trio Mio, Only One Delo, and VDJ Jones.

The song pays homage to Nairobi’s energy, highlighting its hustle culture, street slang, and the lively chaos that defines the city.

Each artist brings a unique flavour, creating a colourful soundscape that perfectly captures the spirit of the capital.

Mr Seed gets real about 'Kanairo’ dating & other top songs of the week

PulseHotAndFresh: Here is a list of songs released this week

Celebrities

Mary Biketi, the elegant and fashionable fourth wife of former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya, has opened up for the first time about her life — both before and after meeting her husband.

Known for her lavish wardrobe and graceful public appearances, Mary shared a rare and deeply personal side of her story, touching on family, love, loss, and her own journey to financial independence.

Former Kakamega Governor and ODM Deputy Leader, Wycliffe Oparanya with Mary Biketi

Mary Biketi was born and raised in Trans-Nzoia County. She is the firstborn in a family of five siblings — two girls and three boys — and grew up in a Christian home.

Her grandfather was a polygamous man with two wives, something that she says has not shaped her perspective on life and relationships.

She attended Milimani Primary School before proceeding to Nzoia Girls High School. In 2012, she moved to Nairobi in search of better opportunities and to build a life for herself.

Fate brought Mary Biketi and Wycliffe Oparanya together on a flight from Wilson Airport to Kisumu.

Their second meeting was in Nairobi at the Tamarind Hotel, and from there, their bond grew stronger.

Despite the significant age gap, Oparanya is 69, Mary’s parents gave their full support to the relationship. The couple later formalised their union when Oparanya visited her family.

“He’s a good man and a responsible father,” she shared, adding that while people often judge him harshly for having multiple wives, they do not know the real person behind the headlines.

Mary accepts her role as the fourth wife with calm and confidence. She says she doesn’t get stressed about the polygamous setup as long as she’s content and well taken care of.

“As long as I’m okay and have everything I need, I don’t stress. He always comes back to me. After me, there will be no other,” she declared.

She made it clear that while she respects his past relationships and co-wives, she won’t tolerate interference from outsiders.

In fact, she admitted to regularly checking her partner’s phone to keep overly persistent women at bay, revealing that some even send suggestive messages to try and get his attention.

<h2>Dealing with loss and public pressure</h2>

One of the most painful experiences Mary opened up about was her miscarriage. It happened at a time when their private photos were leaked online and went viral.

“I had no reason to post. The photos were leaked. So days after, I also posted,” she said.

At the time, she was five months pregnant, and the overwhelming pressure and attention led to a miscarriage. Mary also revealed that she has a seven-year-old son.

<h2>Businesses behind Mary Biketi’s name</h2>

Mary Biketi is not just known for being Oparanya’s wife. She has built her own name and career over the years.

Before venturing into business, she worked with major companies including Safaricom and even the Ministry of Education.

She once ran a women’s clothing business, but had to shut it down when things got tough.

Not one to give up easily, she shifted her focus to real estate and now owns several fully furnished apartments in Nairobi’s upscale areas — Kilimani, Kileleshwa and Lavington. In addition to that, she is involved in supplies and runs a foundation, Mary Biketi Foundation.

Despite the spotlight and challenges that come with being the wife of a public figure, Niketi has remained grounded.

Mary believes that women should not rely on men to find happiness or success. She encourages them to work hard and become their best selves

<blockquote>If you want to meet your dream man, work hard. Be at the level where you can meet the kind of person you want. Have your own money. Have your own class. Be decent.</blockquote>

Former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya's 4th wife Mary Biketi

Mary Biketi may be known to many as the stylish fourth wife of former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya, but behind the polished exterior lies a woman who has weathered both public scrutiny and personal heartbreak. From navigating a painful miscarriage, to raising her son and building a thriving real estate business in Nairobi’s upscale suburbs, Biketi is rewriting her story on her own terms.

Mary Biketi: From Trans-Nzoia to Nairobi landlady and Oparanya’s last queen

Latest Local News Updates & Newspaper Headlines | Pulselive Kenya

Local

Cleophas Wakhungu Malala is a name that has stirred both applause and controversy in Kenya’s political and artistic spaces.

Known for his dramatic flair—both on stage and in Parliament—Malala is a former Senator for Kakamega County and the immediate former Secretary-General of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

But behind the headlines is a story of resilience, reinvention, and bold ambition.

Born on 30 June 1985, Cleophas Malala grew up in Kakamega County, Western Kenya.

His academic journey was far from smooth. He first joined Sunshine Secondary School, where he faced disciplinary challenges and was expelled while in Form Two.

Undeterred, he transferred to Friends High School Kamusinga, a respected national school, where he completed his KCSE in 2003 and attained a B plain.

He later pursued higher education at the United States International University–Africa (USIU-Africa), where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree.

This marked a key turning point in his life, giving him the academic grounding to later take on leadership roles.

Before plunging into the political scene, Malala wore many hats. He was a director of schools and colleges, but perhaps more famously, he made his mark as a playwright.

His works became favourites at national drama festivals, earning awards and sometimes sparking controversy.

In 2013, he gained nationwide attention after scripting and directing Shackles of Doom, a play performed by Butere Girls High School. The play, which delved into tribalism and economic disparity in Kenya, was initially banned by the Ministry of Education for being too provocative.

Years later, in 2025, he returned to the spotlight after writing another controversial piece, Echoes of War, which was also performed by Butere Girls.

The play highlights generational tensions and governance issues, and its bold themes led to Malala’s brief detention by authorities.

<h2>Political career: From MCA to senator</h2>

Malala’s transition to politics came naturally, especially with his popularity among the youth.

In 2013, he was elected as the Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Mahiakalo Ward in Kakamega County.

His big break came in 2017 when he vied for the Kakamega Senatorial seat on an Amani National Congress (ANC) ticket.

He won, and quickly rose to become the Deputy Minority Leader in the Senate.

However, his tenure in this role was cut short in March 2021 when he was ousted and replaced by Kilifi Senator Stewart Madzayo, reportedly over alleged misconduct.

As the 2022 General Election approached, Malala aimed higher, seeking to become Governor of Kakamega.

Backed by the Kenya Kwanza coalition and its leader William Ruto, Malala was given strong support—including the withdrawal of Boni Khalwale from the race in his favour.

Despite a vigorous campaign, he lost to ODM’s Fernandes Barasa, who garnered 192,929 votes against Malala’s 159,508.

The loss was a significant blow, but it did not erase Malala’s status as a prominent player in Kenyan politics.

<h2>Personal life: Wife &amp; children </h2>

Beyond the public spotlight, Cleophas Malala is a family man. He is married to Caroline Ayiesta Malala.

The two held a traditional wedding ceremony in 2018, and are proud parents of four children.

Despite his sometimes confrontational public image, Malala has often portrayed a softer side through his devotion to family.

Cleophas Malala and his wife Caroline Malala

At one point in his life, Cleophas Malala was much bigger than he is now. In a past interview, he revealed that at just 27 years old, he weighed 138 kilogrammes.

The turning point came when he met a nutritionist who placed him on a strict diet plan. Malala followed the programme with discipline and has stuck to it ever since.

His transformation is hard to miss—he is now visibly slimmer and healthier. He encouraged young people to embrace healthy living, noting that it is the surest way to avoid lifestyle-related diseases.

Malala’s success in politics and business is also reflected in his property portfolio.

His residences have often sparked conversations about wealth and lifestyle in Kenyan political circles.

At the start of 2023, Malala shared images of his impressive rural home in Makunga, Kakamega.

The double-storey house sits on a well-maintained compound and showcases modern architecture combined with a homely charm.

He also owns a luxurious home in the Milimani suburb of Kakamega Town. The house features a spacious living room, grand lighting, elegant décor, and a calming green theme throughout. It often serves as his base while in town.

In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Malala’s Kitengela home in Kajiado County made headlines after police raided it.

The house is another palatial two-storey building, complete with balconies and plush furnishings.

Its cream colour scheme adds to its royal aura—perfectly in line with Malala’s known love for the dramatic.

Cleophas Malala is no stranger to controversy. His plays, speeches, and political strategies have frequently sparked public debate.

His involvement in the arts sparked national debates due to their bold treatment of issues like ethnicity, wealth inequality, and generational divides.

In Shackles of Doom (2013), the play’s depiction of Kenya’s socio-political challenges, particularly ethnic tensions and resource distribution, was met with resistance from the government.

The Ministry of Education initially banned it, but the High Court later overturned the decision, allowing Butere Girls High School to perform the play at the Kenya Schools and Colleges Drama Festival. This incident marked a significant moment in Malala’s early career as both a writer and public figure.

Similarly, Echoes of War (2025) created waves after its script was shared, leading to Malala’s arrest. The play sought to portray the widening gap between generations, and its performance by Butere Girls High School students sparked protests, leading to Malala’s detention.

The incident reignited discussions about the role of art in political expression in Kenya.

Even in politics, Malala is seen as a divisive but strategic figure. Supporters admire his boldness and energy, while critics often question his alliances and approach.

Cleophas Wakhungu Malala’s life has been marked by a series of triumphs, challenges, and controversies.

From his early days to his rise in politics and his artistic contributions, Malala has left an indelible mark on Kenya’s cultural and political landscape.

He has continually shaped the conversation around leadership, culture, and the future of Kenya.

Cleophas Wakhungu Malala’s life reads like a gripping script — bold, dramatic, and deeply layered. From a young student to a man of means with mansions, a growing family, and a noticeable physical transformation that sparked curiosity nationwide. This is the journey of a man who dared to challenge the system, whether through politics or plays, and paid the price, often in headlines.

Cleophas Malala's Biography: Early life, family, property, weight loss & 'Echoes of War'

Latest Kenyan Relationships and Wedding News & Trends

Relationships & Weddings

When you hear about the Luo community, the first thing that might come to mind is their love for the finer things in life: designer clothes, flashy watches, and fuel-guzzling machines.

The fourth largest ethnic group in Kenya, these are the people who don't just attend an event; they make an entrance. Helicopters? Check. A fleet of sleek German machines? Of course. Champagne that costs more than your rent? Why not!

But beyond the glam and extravagance lies a rich culture, especially when it comes to marriage. A Luo traditional marriage is not just a union between two people. It connects families, secures lineage, and brings entire communities together in celebration.

Celebrity designer Bolo Bespoke during his wedding

<h2>Luo marriage process in the past </h2>

In the past, traditional Luo customs dictated that when a man came of age, it was his responsibility to find a wife—young women rarely sought husbands themselves. Once a potential wife was identified, several methods could be used to ensure she reached her 'place of relevance', the man’s home.

One such method was Yuecho (abduction), where the man, with help from others, would carefully study the woman’s routine—such as where she fetched firewood or water—and then seize an opportunity to abduct her. Though she could scream, passers-by would not intervene, as the act was culturally recognised.

Another method was Amen (wrestling). Here, the suitor would engage in a physical contest—either with the girl’s brothers or, in some cases, with the girl herself. Winning the match proved his strength and ability to provide; losing meant he was unfit to marry her.

A more diplomatic approach involved a Ja-gam (matchmaker), often an aunt, who would link a man to a suitable woman. Compatibility was carefully considered, including beliefs about witchcraft (juok), with the aim of fostering peaceful co-existence.

Importantly, none of these processes marked the official beginning of marriage. They were only preliminary steps.

<h2>4 stages that seal a modern Luo marriage</h2>

In modern Luo culture, while some customs have evolved, key traditions still shape the path to marriage. Before a man can officially call a woman his wife, he must navigate a culturally rich journey—complete with symbolic sheep, discreet negotiations, and carefully packed envelopes.4o

The journey begins with dating, followed by Ng'eyo Dala (knowing the home), Nyombo (traditional bride price ceremony), and finally a grand wedding.

Just like today’s dating life, a Luo man begins by meeting someone, spending time with her, and eventually deciding they want to be together.

This stage helps both parties learn about each other’s backgrounds, especially to confirm they aren’t related. In

Once they agree to move forward, the cultural wheels start turning.

<h2>2. Ng’eyo Dala - Meeting the family (Introduction) </h2>

The first step is called Ng’eyo Dala, meaning ‘knowing the home’. The man sets a date to visit the woman’s family. It’s not a big ceremony, but more of an informal introduction. He may go alone or with a few friends, and it’s always polite to carry a small gift.

This visit marks his first step into the family. He doesn’t make any official promises yet, but he shows his interest and respect.

AI-generated image of a man having conversation with two women

<h2>3. Nyombo – The bride price ceremony</h2>

Next comes Nyombo, the traditional bride price ceremony. This is the grand event where families come together to finalise the union.

Among the Luo, paying bride price is not just a sign of appreciation—it also carries weight in determining burial rights for women.

If a husband hasn’t paid dowry, his wife cannot be buried on his land when she dies. Instead, she must be laid to rest at her parents' home unless the bride price is settled. Here is the process of Nyombo.

<h3><li>The arrival</li></h3>

On the agreed day, the man’s entourage arrives at the bride’s home, walking slowly. He hides among his friends to avoid being the centre of attention.

In modern-day nyombo ceremonies, the couple typically wears special traditional matching outfits—usually made from kitenge fabric.

In some cases, the groom and his entourage arrive carrying symbolic items like horns and cowhide (pien) as part of the cultural presentation.

No serious ceremonies take place on the arrival day. The guests are welcomed and served food, then spend the night in the simba—a small house in the compound, often belonging to the bride’s brother. Culturally, a groom never sleeps in the same house as his mother-in-law.

That evening, single women from the bride’s family serve the guests food and entertain them with stories about the land.

Sometimes, new relationships even blossom from these encounters.

<h3><li>The feast</li></h3>

The next day, the real fun begins. The feast includes plenty of food, drinks and sometimes entertainment—like music and dancing. It all depends on how much the families plan to spend.

The groom officially meets the mother-in-law. He is served a full fried chicken and a knife, a special honour showing that he is now part of the family. He can choose to share it with his friends.

A sheep is also part of the tradition. The groom picks a healthy one on arrival day, and if he approves, it’s slaughtered for the feast.

<h3><li>The negotiation</li></h3>

In the evening, the bride price negotiations begin. The groom, his spokesman and other people he walked with, sit with the bride’s father, uncles, and brothers.

They discuss the dowry, traditionally cattle or modern equivalents.

<h3><li>Ayie – The mother’s blessing</li></h3>

As the father handles the cows, the bride’s mother receives her blessing, called Ayie, in the form of money placed in an envelope.

The amount depends on what was agreed or what the groom can afford. This act confirms her acceptance of the union.

For uncles and older relatives who enjoy a drink, the groom may include bottles of wine or extra cash in appreciation.

<h3>The envelope matter</h3>

At the end of the ceremony, the groom gives out envelopes of appreciation. These are filled with cash and handed out to the people named by the bride.

These may include her siblings, aunts, uncles, and most importantly, the cooks who prepared the meal.

Every envelope is a thank-you, and each name on the list is carefully considered.

Once this is done, the groom leaves. The bride joins him a day or two later, officially starting their life together.

<h2>Important Nyombo customs to observe</h2>

If the bride is the first-born daughter, her husband must spend the night at her family home during Nyombo.

This act symbolically opens the door for her siblings’ future spouses to also sleep over when they visit.

If she skips this step, it means her younger sisters’ husbands may not be welcomed to spend the night at the homestead.

In fact, if no blood is shed for her husband (meaning no sheep or chicken is slaughtered for him), then her siblings’ suitors cannot enjoy such honours either.

In such cases, animals cannot be slaughtered for later marriages until this tradition is fulfilled—or meat must be bought from a local butcher instead.

If the first daughter has not followed tradition, the bride price for her younger sisters is taken to her uncle’s home instead.

Even when both parents are deceased, the dowry is presented to the bride’s uncle or another close relative.

After the cultural steps are completed, the couple is free to plan a wedding. It can be a church wedding, civil ceremony or anything in between.

Luo weddings are famously lavish. Think helicopters, motorcades, stylish guests, and high-end venues.

Even if the cars are hired, the rule is simple: it must be big, bold and beautiful. Because in Luo culture, pesa (money) is not something you hide. You spend it, you show it, and you enjoy it. Pesa otas!

From the sweet beginnings of dating, to Ng’eyo Dala, the formal Nyombo ceremony, and finally a grand wedding celebration, a Luo marriage is a beautifully layered journey rich in culture and meaning.

Curious about how other communities celebrate love and union? Dive deeper into the diverse cultural traditions that shape marriage across Kenya and beyond—you might just discover a love story unlike any other.

Discover the 4 essential stages that seal a traditional Luo marriage. Learn about the cultural practices and ceremonies that make a Luo marriage truly special.

4 stages that seal a Luo marriage: Tradition, culture, and ceremony

<ul><li>Ruth K explained why she and Mulamwah did not have a traditional wedding as planned.</li><li>The couple's celebration in 2023 was an introduction ceremony, not a wedding.</li><li>The resurfacing of Ruth K's video coincided with Mulamwah's visit to his daughter with Carol Sonnie.</li></ul>

Kendrick Mulamwah's wife, Ruth K, in August 2024, addressed the rumours surrounding their relationship, specifically the widespread belief that they were officially married.

The mother of one took to social media to set the record straight, following a beautiful celebration they held in 2023.

<h3>Ruth K &amp; Mulamwah's introduction ceremony</h3>

In October 2023, <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/lifestyle/relationships-and-weddings/ruth-k-takes-mulamwah-home-for-an-introduction-ceremony-days-after-pregnancy-hint/2rzw6vb">Mulamwah and Ruth K threw a lively party</a> that left many Kenyans convinced that the couple had tied the knot.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/entertainment/celebrities/mulamwahs-wife-ruth-k-to-take-a-step-back-from-social-media-for-teaching-job/0r8gg31">Mulamwah's wife Ruth K lands new job, months after earning degree</a>

The event featured energetic dancing, and the joy on display led many to congratulate them, assuming it was their traditional wedding.

However, Ruth K later revealed that this was not the case. She clarified that the event was actually an introduction ceremony, not a wedding.

<h3>Why Mulamwah &amp; Ruth K didn’t wed</h3>

To explain why the couple didn’t go through with a traditional wedding, Ruth K shared more details in a past video that has now resurfaced online.

Mulamwah's wife and content creator Ruth K (Instagram)

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/entertainment/celebrities/ruth-k-opens-up-about-online-trolls-and-relationship-with-mulamwahs-ex-carol-sonie/3gqe5wh">Mulamwah &amp; wife Ruth K unmask hidden struggles with Carol Sonie</a>

In the video<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/entertainment/celebrities/ruth-k-recounts-mulamwahs-reaction-to-news-of-their-unplanned-pregnancy/7jcsc4k">, she disclosed that</a> her pregnancy had unexpectedly interfered with their original wedding plans.

"I had not told anyone at home that I was pregnant. I had just told my close friends," Ruth K explained.

<blockquote>It was not supposed to be an introduction party. We did not know you cannot do ruracio (a traditional dowry payment ceremony) when you are pregnant. After asking around, we were told it could not happen.</blockquote>

This revelation came as a surprise to many, as it is a common tradition in some communities that a woman should not undergo the traditional dowry payment ceremony process while pregnant.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/entertainment/celebrities/ruth-k-recounts-mulamwahs-reaction-to-news-of-their-unplanned-pregnancy/7jcsc4k">Ruth K recounts Mulamwah's reaction to news of unplanned pregnancy</a>

Ruth K further explained that after learning about this, they had to alter their plans, leading to the introduction ceremony taking place two weeks after their originally planned date.

In a past video, Ruth K explained why Mulamwah didn’t pay her dowry, offering clarity on the events and the dynamics of their relationship. Mulamwah has since announced their breakup, nearly a year and a half after their introduction ceremony.

Lynet Okumu

Articles written by the author

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