Nairobi Duo Watendawili Bridging Folklore and Modernity with Sophomore EP ‘Hekaya’

The dynamic musical duo Watendawili, consisting of Israel Onyach and Ywaya Tajiri, has officially released their highly anticipated sophomore EP, Hekaya. Arriving on February 25, 2026, the project’s title is drawn from the Swahili word for “story” or “tale,” creating a direct lineage to the duo’s own name, which is rooted in vitendawili—the traditional Swahili art of riddles used to transmit wisdom and test wit. With this new body of work, Watendawili successfully extends this ancient oral tradition into the digital age, blending classic folklore with the sharp, lived observations of Nairobi’s urban youth.

The six-track EP is a linguistic tapestry that mirrors the multicultural heartbeat of Kenya’s capital, weaving seamlessly through Swahili, Luo, Kikuyu, Sheng, and English. The project opens with the vibrant “Tumia Pesa,” a record that champions the philosophy of living fully in the present and finding joy today rather than deferring it to an uncertain future. This energy shifts into “Lavender,” a track that offers a biting commentary on Kenya’s popular radio mediation culture. Inspired by breakfast shows where couples air their grievances to the nation, “Lavender” tells the story of a relationship so fractured that it requires a public audience to be addressed.

Hekaya continues to showcase the duo’s versatility through “Naogelea Mbali,” a smooth, Tarab-influenced love ballad. Meaning “I’m swimming far,” the song captures the overwhelming depth of love with an emotional maturity that stands out in the contemporary scene. In contrast, “Ngai Enda” (God Willing) brings an Afro-house pulse to a motivational message spoken in Kikuyu, focusing on the discipline of perseverance. The narrative depth of the EP is further explored in “Ex Wangu,” a cautionary tale of a character stuck in the comfort of a toxic but familiar relationship, choosing stagnation over the vulnerability of growth.

The project reaches its climax with the high-energy “Mafrrrmbanya,” a reggae-raga fusion delivered in Sheng. The closing track perfectly encapsulates the humor and unpredictability of modern Nairobi love, proving that Watendawili can make a crowd dance without sacrificing the substance of their storytelling. Hekaya is more than just a collection of songs; it is a reminder that the most enduring stories are the ones that make the listener think while they move. It is a celebration of the neighborhood spaces where Nairobi’s residents have always gathered to make sense of their world.

Hekaya is now available for streaming and download on all major digital music platforms worldwide.