Wakadinali Sweep the Night as Toxic Lyrikali and Kev the DJ Shine at UNKUT 2025

December 5, 2025 30

Written by Edwin Agesa on Friday, 5 December 2025.

The UNKUT Hip Hop Awards lit up Emara Ole Sereni last night, gathering Kenya’s most influential rappers, producers, DJs, and culture shapers for an evening that felt both historic and celebratory. Led by the ever-passionate Miss Ruby and flawlessly hosted by Corine Onyango, the ceremony reminded everyone why Kenyan Hip Hop continues to thrive, expand, and command respect across the continent. It was a night of triumphs, surprises, and well-earned recognition as the industry’s finest took their place among giants.

Among the biggest winners of the night were Wakadinali, arguably Kenya’s most dominant rap group of this era. Their album Victims of Madness 2.0 clinched Album of the Year, a testament to its impact, replay value, and the group’s unshakable influence on the culture. The project has lived on the playlists and lips of fans since its release, and last night’s win felt like the culmination of relentless work, street-level authenticity, and unmatched consistency.

Scar Mkadinali, one of the group’s standout voices, added another feather to the crew’s cap by bagging Lyricist of the Year. It’s an award that suits him like a glove, Scar’s pen game has long been celebrated for its grit, wordplay, and the raw Kenyan truth that he translates into every verse. Completing their sweep, Wakadinali also won Group of the Year, cementing their position as the heartbeat of contemporary Kenyan Hip Hop.

But the night wasn’t only about the rappers holding the mic; it was also about the architects who shape the sound and keep the culture moving. One of the most deserved and loudly cheered wins came from Kev the DJ, who took home DJ of the Year. Kev has become a bridge between the streets and the mainstream, curating some of the best Hip Hop experiences both online and at live events. His win was a nod to every DJ who has committed to pushing Kenyan rap to the forefront and shaping the sonic identity of a generation.

Another standout moment came from one of 2025’s brightest stars: Toxic Lyrikali, the monster hit-maker who has dominated charts and conversations all year. Winning Male Artist of the Year, Toxic beat out big names such as Breeder LW, Octopizzo, Khaligraph Jones, and Masterpiece—an impressive lineup that speaks volumes about the magnitude of his win. His relentless release schedule, energetic performances, and undeniable influence on the young fanbase have made him a cultural force, and last night’s recognition only solidified his rising legacy.

As more winners continue to be announced, one thing is clear: the UNKUT Hip Hop Awards have become an essential pillar of Kenyan rap culture. They honor excellence, highlight growth, and remind the industry that talent, whether emerging or legendary, deserves to be celebrated loudly. The 2025 edition set a new standard in production, curation, and representation, showing just how far the movement has come and hinting at how much further it can go.

If last night proved anything, it’s that Kenyan Hip Hop is not just alive, it’s thriving, expanding, and ready to take over. More winners and moments will continue to emerge, but the energy from Emara Ole Sereni will be remembered for a long time.