African Grammys Coming to Nairobi? Ruto Commits 500 Million Shillings

Kenya could soon become the heartbeat of African music after President William Ruto announced plans to host the first-ever African Grammy Awards in Nairobi by 2027.

Speaking at the 97th Kenya Music Festival in Sagana, Ruto revealed that Kenya has already committed 500 million shillings to the Recording Academy to secure the event.

He told the cheering crowd that Talanta Stadium will be the stage for Africa’s biggest music night, showcasing homegrown sounds like Benga, Genge, and Afrobeat to the world.

The idea began in 2024 when Ruto met Recording Academy officials at Tyler Perry Studios in the United States.

With Kenya now part of the Academy’s Grammy Global Ventures alongside Nigeria, Rwanda, and South Africa, Nairobi’s chances look stronger than ever.

But the announcement has split opinion.

Some Kenyans are thrilled, calling it a chance to put local artistes on the global map.

Others are questioning whether 500 million shillings is a wise investment when local studios need support.

While reports about the payment remain unclear, Ruto insists the money is secure.

To back up the promise, the government has introduced a digital royalties system through e-Citizen, ensuring artistes get 70 percent of their earnings directly.

The Talanta Hela initiative is also funding film and music projects, while the Recording Academy has pledged to set up an Africa hub in Nairobi to train and support creatives across the continent.

If the plan succeeds, Nairobi could rival Cape Town’s FAME Week Africa and become the capital of African music.

All eyes are now on the completion of Talanta Stadium, as Kenya’s creative community waits to see if Ruto’s bold vision will turn into history.