Director – Juma Odemba
Juma Odemba comes from a teaching background, having studied at Shanzu Teachers College to obtain his Primary Teacher’s Certificate in 1990. Juma taught music at primary school level for over fifteen years. During this time, Juma was responsible for preparation, adjudication and editing at the Kenya National Musical Festivals. He has also taught music at Moi Forces Academy where he focused on theoretical, practical and choral preparations for the Kenya National Music Festivals. Juma has also been the Divisional Drama/Music coordinator in Kamkunji Division where he monitored 23 primary schools in their preparation for national day occasions in the country.
However, Juma is perhaps best known for his role as the Music Director of world famous Kayamba Africa, a position he has held for eleven years.
Juma has won numerous awards and nominations during his impactful career. These include Kisima Award for Best Eastern Band (2004) and Pearl Award for Best Band in East Africa 2008, as well as Head of State Commendation (2010). He has also been nominated for a KORA Award for Best Traditional Song (2003).
Juma’s interest include preparing music compositions and arrangements (which he does on a daily basis), as well as volunteering to perform at charitable organizations. He aims to enrich the lives of people through instructing them in the art of traditional music and culture in order to enhance human co-existence.
THE TEAM, KAYAMBA AFRICA,
• JUMA ODEMBA (Director)
• MOSES EKIRAPA(COORDINATOR)
And twenty talented and active members including a;
TRADITIONAL DANCE TROUPE;