Kenya’s entertainment industry has been a breeding ground for diverse talents across various domains, winning the admiration of audiences through their exceptional achievements. One standout figure in the nation’s entertainment landscape is James Mungai, widely recognized as DJ Afro Amigos or Kimoda, resonating with fans both locally and internationally.
DJ Afro’s influence extends across Kenya, with his distinctive talent captivating audiences worldwide, including in Tanzania. His journey began in 2006, where he provided engaging and high-quality commentary to entertain Kenyans while watching movies. Initially, he delivered his commentary in local theaters in Rongai and Kiserian, facing challenges and criticism that compelled him to relocate.
Reflecting on his early struggles, DJ Afro recalled, “Ten years ago, we couldn’t record a voice-over due to a lack of equipment. I had to provide live commentary in video shows in Kiserian and Rongai on the outskirts of Nairobi. These shows gained significant popularity at the time.”
Undeterred, DJ Afro relocated to Nakuru, armed only with his talent and determination. Fortunately, he found a supportive friend who provided the necessary tools for reviewing and recording movies. After a year of saving, he acquired his equipment, marking a significant milestone in his career.
In a 2016 interview with Citizen TV, DJ Afro attributed his success to divine favor, emphasizing the importance of putting God first in his journey. He emphasized the need for creativity and urged fellow artists to study movies and find innovative ways to make them interesting.
Notably, DJ Afro owns a shop in Nakuru Town where he sells his movies. Addressing concerns about copyrights, he expressed confidence, suggesting that actors and producers should acknowledge his role in popularizing their work. He asserted that his commentary adds value, making foreign language films accessible and enjoyable for Kenyan audiences.
In 2018, DJ Afro faced scrutiny from the Kenya Films and Classification Board (KFCB) over explicit language in some of his movies. The board suspended his movies temporarily, but after discussions and acknowledgment of past mistakes, the ban was lifted, and his movies resumed airing on Gikuyu TV.
In October 2021, DJ Afro gained attention when Netflix featured a commentary in one of its promos, sparking social media outrage. Responding to public sentiment, Netflix reached out to DJ Afro, who subsequently provided commentary for the official trailer of the movie “Thunder Force.” This collaboration marked a recognition of DJ Afro’s unique talent and solidified his status as a prominent figure in Kenya’s entertainment scene.
