Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho is a politician who enjoys great recognition among musicians.
Secular artists do not shy away from mentioning him in their interviews and some in their lyrics. Some of the notable names who have graced his functions include, Tanzanian pop star Ali Kiba and controversial gospel artiste Willy Paul.
The Governor is loved in the music industry because of the support he accords artistes. Through Above The Rim Productions, Joho is helping musicians produce quality videos. Some of the beneficiaries are Ally B, Ali Kiba, Dazlah and Omny Dimpoz.
“Above The Rim Productions is a company managed by a leading artiste, a radio host and a radio station manager in Mombasa who are the link between artistes and the Governor. The honourable promised to support the arts and he is doing that, using his own funds to fund mostly videos,” a source told Pulse.
During the past Mombasa Youth Convention and Global Migration Film Festival at Aga Khan Academy Hall, Joho challenged artists to come up with an educative piece and pledged to offer help including composing songs for them.
“Those artists who are here, start composing songs that promote peace. I can write for you the lyrics. It does not need a Sheikh or Bishop to talk peace. Everyone can talk peace,” Joho said.