Kenyan rapper Henry Ohanga, popularly known as Octopizzo, and singer Fena Gitu were on Wednesday, May 17, honoured by Meta in the ‘Made by Africa, Loved by the World’ campaign slated to take place on May 25.
Octopizzo, who was part of the eight artists celebrated Africa-wide, was recognised for using his talent to inspire change through art, music, sports and culture.
“Themed ‘Rising Stars’, this year’s edition aims to amplify the voices and stories of eight rising talents from across Africa, who are building a global presence and changing the way Africa is viewed on the international stage,” read part of a statement by Meta.
Gitu, on the other hand, was recognised for her music through which she had partnered with local and global artists.
“She has received several recognitions for her phenomenal work in the music industry and continues to be appreciated beyond Kenyan borders,” Meta, which owns Facebook, praised the artist
The eight individuals, who are drawn from across Africa, represent creative industries ranging from music, fashion, lifestyle and art.
This year’s self-shot short stories provide a glimpse of the creators’ world and highlight how being African inspires their creativity.
For Africa Day on May 25, Meta will be holding a chat with a selection of key figures from across the continent – exploring the global impact of Africa’s youth and how platforms like Instagram were helping fuel their global appeal.
“We’re thrilled to celebrate Africa Day this year by amplifying the stories of just some of our talented rising stars from across the continent who are shining a spotlight on African culture, music, food, dance, fashion, and so much more in their own voices,” stated Kezia Anim-Addo, Meta’s Director of Communications in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Kezia explained that every day, young African artistes use Meta technologies, like Instagram and Facebook, to share their stories, express themselves, and bring people together in inspiring ways.
“We’re proud that our technologies have a role to play in amplifying these voices and stories, both locally and globally,” Kezia noted.
Other artists recognized by Meta include Fhatuwani Mukheli (South African), Adesokan Emmanuel – Shanks Comics (Nigerian), Njang Mengu Collins (Cameroon), Jacqueline Acheampong – Gyakie (Ghana), Enioluwa Adeoluwa (Nigeria), and Qhamanande Maswana (South Africa).
Source: Kenyans.co.ke
