The Oontz: A self-sustaining electronic music ecosystem is evolving in East Africa – Features

In less than 10 years, we’ve seen nightlife evolve to not only accommodate but champion The Oontz. The frequency, access, and scale of electronic music events have seen a significant boom, with an explosion in attendees. Live music festivals are now incorporating Afro house DJs as headliners and creating entire stages just for electronic music.

The number and size of the venues are also increasing to meet the demand. What were initially considered niche spaces hosting monthly techno parties for less than 100 people now have up to four events every weekend like Kampala’s Wild Coffee or Nairobi’s Shelter. The Mist in Nairobi has become a cornerstone for the Kenyan capital’s alternative music culture — a place where DJs are just as likely to drop gqom as they are jungle, techno, or singeli, reflecting the breadth of sounds that are emerging. New venues are opening up to specifically cater to the electronic music audience like Koda and Masshouse, 1,000 and 5,000-capacity venues respectively in Nairobi. While last year, University of Brighton student Jesse Mugambi was awarded €50,000 to build nightclub in Kenya.

Read this next: How MUZE put Nairobi’s nightlife on the map

As the ceiling gets higher – events becoming more sustainable and regional travel more accessible – more individuals and collectives are breaking through to carve out their own space and contribute to the growing community of East African collaborators. This growth has increased the appetite and willingness for mainstream audiences in the region to show up for electronic music events.

The list below provides an overview of a few notable figures that form the heartbeat of this ecosystem, ensuring that it continues to grow and evolve.

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