Kiria, El Prezido & Donboydml Emerge Winners of 3rd Edition of JosPlay Rise Fund

Kenyan music artiste, Kiria has won the third edition of the JosPlay Rise Fund. He beat two Nigerian artistes, El Prezido and Donboydml, who placed second and third, respectively, for the prize.

A Nairobi-based singer-songwriter, guitarist, and frontman of the Amsha Trio, Kiria’s music blends Bluesy pop, Roots and Folk Fusion. It is known for tracks like Adabu, The City, and Shelter in Babylon.

Speaking of the artiste, JosPlay’s George Ogala said Kiria’s win is a testament to his strong musicianship, proven live performance history, coherent artistic vision, and a professional, phased plan

“He is already operating like a mid-career artiste, not an upcoming one. Kiria has an immediate readiness for structured support,” said Ogala.

Having a clear, coherent, and strategic plan and vision is a key factor in winning the fund, just as the artiste’s music. It is on this basis that JosPlay aids independent artistes in funding and bringing their ideas to reality.

Established in 2025, the JosPlay Rise Fund is dedicated to giving independent artistes the visibility and support they require to realise their musical dreams.

Kiria walks away with a $500 prize, while El Prezido and Donboydml receive $300 and $200 prizes, respectively. The prizes are offered in-kind via JosPlay, finetuning and funding their proposed ideas. They will also feature in JosPlay’s promotional programmes throughout the second quarter of 2026 and gain exposure on the Raw and Rising Playlist.