The fourth edition of the now-celebrated Kikuyu cultural showcase, Ngemi Homecoming Festival, is officially on the calendar.
Dubbed Ngemi 4.0, the two-day event will be held in Naivasha on May 31 and June 1, with organizers promising a vibrant celebration of Gikuyu heritage. The official venue, ticketing details, and performance lineup are yet to be announced.
The previous edition, Ngemi 3.0, was held at Eva’s Garden Redhill in Limuru on March 8 and drew a full house. The lineup featured popular acts including Aunty Jemimah, Wanjiine, Addeh Prince, Henrique the DJ, Ayrosh, Wanjiru wa Njuguna, Wachuka, Vicki Vikta, DJ JY, Hype Kev, Folk Fusion, and a surprise performance by Mugiithi maestro Samidoh.
Ngemi 3.0 sold out more than a month in advance prompting organizers to cancel all gate and walk-in ticket sales.
Founded in August 2024 by three friends, the Ngemi Homecoming Festival has quickly become one of Kenya’s most widely attended cultural events, especially among millennials and Gen Zs.
Organizers describe the festival as “an experience and a celebration of art, music, fashion, food and culture,” aimed at honoring Kikuyu heritage, storytelling, music, and tradition.
“It is a homecoming, a return to our roots. That was the whole idea,” they say.
The word ‘Ngemi’ originates from the five joyful ululations traditionally used in Kikuyu culture to celebrate events like childbirth — a sound that expresses deep happiness and communal joy.
