Johnnie Walker Brings Afro Exchange to Nanyuki as Lifestyle Destination Continues to Rise
Johnnie Walker is taking its signature Afro Exchange experience to Nanyuki this weekend, bringing together music, visual art and premium lifestyle experiences in a move that underscores the town’s growing reputation as one of Kenya’s emerging entertainment and tourism destinations.
The event, scheduled for Saturday, August 1 at Zero Percent Lounge, comes as the global whisky brand expands its cultural platform beyond major cities, following a successful edition in Kisumu earlier this year. The experience is expected to attract music lovers, creatives and lifestyle enthusiasts from across the region for an evening celebrating contemporary African culture through live performances, art and social connection.
Headlining the event is Kenyan music star Mejja, who will lead an entertainment lineup featuring DJs Candi and Cupid, with MC Mido hosting the evening. Renowned mural artist Bankslave will also headline the visual arts segment, creating live artwork that organisers say will reflect the creativity and cultural identity that Afro Exchange seeks to promote.
The event forms part of Johnnie Walker’s broader strategy of creating immersive consumer experiences that blend entertainment with culture while providing a platform for local artists and creatives to showcase their talent.
Speaking ahead of the event, Johnnie Walker Shopper Manager Duncan Mokaya said Nanyuki has rapidly evolved into a destination that offers more than its scenic landscapes, attracting visitors seeking unique lifestyle experiences.
“Nanyuki has become one of Kenya’s most exciting lifestyle destinations, where people come together to experience great food, breathtaking scenery, vibrant nightlife and unforgettable moments. Afro Exchange is about celebrating the people shaping culture and creating spaces where music, art and meaningful connections come alive. We’re excited to bring this experience to Nanyuki and invite consumers to celebrate progress the Johnnie Walker way,” said Mokaya.
Beyond the entertainment, the event coincides with Johnnie Walker’s celebrations of National Scotch Day, observed annually on July 27, as the brand continues to connect its Scotch whisky heritage with modern cultural experiences that resonate with younger consumers.
In recent years, experiential events have become an increasingly important marketing strategy for premium beverage brands as consumers seek memorable experiences beyond traditional nightlife. Afro Exchange has positioned itself as one of Johnnie Walker’s flagship lifestyle platforms, combining live music, art, fashion and social experiences while championing local creative talent.
For Nanyuki, the event further reinforces the town’s growing profile as a lifestyle and tourism hub. Long known as the gateway to Mount Kenya and northern Kenya, the town has in recent years attracted increased investment in hospitality, entertainment and leisure facilities, drawing visitors looking for weekend getaways that combine adventure with vibrant nightlife.
Organisers say this year’s edition will transform Zero Percent Lounge into an immersive creative space where guests can enjoy live performances, interactive art installations and curated premium experiences throughout the evening.
Following the success of previous Afro Exchange editions across the country, the Nanyuki event is expected to continue the platform’s mission of supporting local talent, celebrating African creativity and creating spaces where people can connect through music, culture and shared experiences.
The event begins at 4 p.m. and runs until late, with organisers promising an unforgettable celebration that brings together some of Kenya’s most exciting performers and creatives in true Johnnie Walker style.
