NTV Kenya has unveiled a new entertainment show titled Friday Night Rave, set to air every Friday from 10:00 p.m. to midnight. The show replaces The Trend, which ended following Amina Abdi Rabar’s departure, and marks the beginning of a new era in the station’s late-night programming. Friday Night Rave will be hosted by Claudia Naisabwa and Brian Aseli, both known for their strong chemistry and engaging style on Nation FM. The duo’s move from radio to television signals NTV’s renewed effort to connect with younger audiences through fresh, interactive, and relatable content.
The programme will feature live music, celebrity interviews, and candid conversations about contemporary culture. It aims to capture the relaxed, weekend vibe that appeals to Kenya’s urban youth while maintaining the high production standards NTV is known for. The Trend, which had been a Friday night fixture since 2012, came to an end after Amina Abdi Rabar’s exit. Amina took over hosting duties from Larry Madowo in 2017 and kept the show vibrant for several years. Her farewell marked the close of a chapter in Kenyan television, paving the way for NTV to reimagine its Friday night entertainment.
With Friday Night Rave, the network seeks to retain its loyal viewers while attracting a younger, digital-savvy audience. The inclusion of Claudia and Brian reflects this strategy, combining established media experience with youthful energy. Claudia Naisabwa has quickly become one of Kenya’s most recognizable young media personalities. A Daystar University graduate, she began her television journey at KTN’s Str8up show, where her confident and charismatic on-screen presence caught national attention.
Although she once dreamt of a music career, Claudia’s passion for storytelling and communication led her to broadcasting. She later transitioned to radio, joining Nation FM, where her engaging on-air partnership with Brian Aseli attracted a dedicated audience. Beyond her media career, Claudia has emerged as a style icon and influencer. She won the 2024 Pulse Influencer Award for Female Fashion Influencer of the Year and was named Best Dressed Influencer at the gala held at Movenpick Hotel in Nairobi.
In 2023, she was appointed to the Talanta Hela Council under the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Sports, and the Arts, reflecting her growing influence as a voice for youth and creativity. Brian Aseli has built a solid reputation as one of Kenya’s most versatile media professionals. A radio host at Nation FM and now co-host of Friday Night Rave, Brian’s career spans radio, television, theatre, and live events.
His journey began at Daystar University’s Shine FM, where his passion for communication took shape. He later joined Kubamba Radio as a scriptwriter before moving into on-air hosting. Over time, his vibrant personality and storytelling skills helped him stand out in Kenya’s competitive media scene. Brian has also overcome personal challenges, including dyslexia, turning them into motivation to inspire others. In addition to broadcasting, he works as an MC, voice-over artist, and stage director, making him one of the most multi-talented figures in local entertainment.
With Friday Night Rave, NTV Kenya is positioning itself at the forefront of entertainment programming that resonates with the country’s evolving media audience. The combination of Claudia Naisabwa’s bold presence and Brian Aseli’s creative depth promises to deliver a show that blends humor, culture, and energy. The show’s launch also reflects NTV’s broader strategy to strengthen its connection with Kenya’s youth by offering relatable, conversation-driven content. Viewers can expect music, trending topics, and authentic interactions that redefine what late-night television means in Kenya today.
Friday Night Rave premieres this Friday at 10 p.m. on NTV Kenya.
