The recently-concluded Africa Campus Battle wasn’t just a talent show it was a movement that brought the continent together
Imagine a child raised on a healthy diet of Pan-African unity, sprinkled with some Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and then sent off to university: meet Africa Campus Battle. The talent show that’s got the whole continent buzzing!
On Sunday, October 14, with another manic Monday beckoning, something magical was happening at the Kenya National Theatre. The grand finale of Africa Campus Battle Season 6 erupted onto the scene.
Picture this: Eleven contestants from 9 countries, each armed with more talent than you can point your cameras at. We’re talking dance moves that would breathe life into statues come to life, spoken word that would dumbfound Shakespeare and singing that would make birds stop mid-air in awe. 
This wasn’t just your average “shake-what-your-mama-gave-you” contest. These bright young minds were tasked with offering solutions to Africa’s problems through highlighting SGDs (Sustainable Development Goals), all under the rallying cry of #MyArtMyHustleMyLife.
It’s like they were saying,
Watch me solve climate change… in rhyme!”
In the first round, each contestant tackled a specific SDG, showcasing their creativity and passion for change.
- Abobodhino and Dance King took on SDG 1 (No Poverty)
- Dexter dove into SDG 14 (Life Below Water)
- Jackline Malavanu tackled SDG 2 (Zero Hunger)
- Joy Ushe and Liesse Wonder addressed SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions)
- Julio, Rolie, and Isca also focused on SDG 16
- Sharon addressed SDG 15 (Life on Land)
- Sibongile explored SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation)
In the second round, contestants had the freedom to choose their performance style, unleashing the full spectrum of their talents and leaving the audience in awe.
The wizard behind the curtain, Creative Director Biko Nyongesa, pulled out all the stops to make this season a visual and artistic feast. Biko’s creative touch transformed the stage into a canvas showcasing the vibrant tapestry of African talent.
We also had judges who were the crème de la crème of African talent. The ever-radiant Kerry Kagiri, brought along her contagious energy; Mufasa, ever charming, and Judge Obilo, who had just the right amount of sternness to keep the judgments balanced – a trio so impressive, they could give Simon Cowell’s gang a run for its money. 
And let’s not forget Patrick, aka Uncle Charlie, the coach, whispering words of wisdom like the Kenyan Yoda.
But let’s talk about that crowd, folks! This wasn’t just a competition; it was a full-blown concert celebrating Africa’s young talents. Comrades didn’t just show up; they brought the house down! And if there’s one thing comrades know how to do, it is bring energy.
The entire auditorium transformed into a pulsating dance floor, with waves of movement rippling through the crowd with every beat. These fans were on their feet, bodies swaying, hands in the air, creating a visual symphony that showed their true colours. Even the most reserved audience members- the judges- found themselves caught up in the rhythm. 
During breaks, the excitement bubbled, with fans rushing onto the stage, turning the show into an impromptu dance party. Ted, the MC, the maestro of this carnival of enthusiasm, expertly channelled this energy, keeping the vibe at a fever pitch throughout the night. He had the crowd chanting, jumping, and moving in perfect sync, turning the entire venue into one giant, joyous celebration of African talent.
With each performance, the air crackled with electric cheers, as if the entire continent was voicing its support through this one auditorium. From start to finish, the audience rallied behind their favourites, creating a pulsating rhythm of encouragement that could rival any world-class stadium. It wasn’t just about watching – it was about participating, about being part of something bigger than themselves.
The host, Brian Aseli, had everyone learning new vocabulary faster than you can say, “Anguka Nayo.” Now, thanks to the Africa Campus Battle, half of Kenya is walking around saying “Sikhona” like they’ve been speaking Zulu since birth.
In a twist that would make Daudi Kabaka jealous, the winner turned out to be Jackline Malavanu, alias Jackie Malvis, a spoken word artist from Muhimbili University in Tanzania, who walked away with a whopping 2000 USD. Our Tanzanian neighbour proved that actions speak louder than words, but spoken word wins contests!
As the curtains closed on this spectacular season, one thing was crystal clear: Africa Campus Battle isn’t just a talent show; it’s a movement. It’s bringing the continent together faster than social media connects the world.
The mastermind behind this continental sensation, founder Lamech, is already buzzing with bright hopes for future seasons. With the passion of a true visionary, Lamech sees Africa Campus Battle as more than just entertainment – it’s a platform for nurturing Africa’s talents in campus and fostering continental unity.
So, the next time someone asks you about the future of African unity and talent, don’t just tell them – show them. Direct them to the Africa Campus Battle highlights, teach them to say “Sikhona,” and watch their jaws drop. This isn’t just showbiz, folks. This is Africa rising and uniting, one performance, one season at a time.
Elevate your brand as a creative via Sanaapost Talents
