Sierra Leone’s celebrated rapper and Entertainment Ambassador, Kao Denero, has been nominated for the Best Male Hip-Hop Artist Africa award at the Nairobi Entertainment Music Awards (NEMA) 2026, further cementing his status as one of the continent’s leading hip-hop artists.
The nomination places Kao Denero among an impressive lineup of renowned African rap stars, including Sarkodie of Ghana, Khaligraph Jones of Kenya, Nasty C and Cassper Nyovest of South Africa, as well as other top hip-hop artists from across the continent competing in the prestigious category.
Organisers describe the Nairobi Entertainment Music Awards (NEMA) as a Kenya-based continental platform dedicated to recognizing outstanding African musicians and members of the African diaspora who have made significant contributions to the music industry.
Kao Denero’s latest nomination is widely regarded as another milestone in his music career, reflecting his consistency, dedication, and continued impact on African hip-hop.
Over the years, the award-winning rapper has represented Sierra Leone on several international stages, earning recognition for his lyrical ability and contribution to the growth of the country’s entertainment industry.
The nomination also provides Sierra Leone with another opportunity to gain continental recognition, as Kao Denero competes against some of Africa’s most accomplished rap artists for one of the ceremony’s top honours.
Supporters, music lovers, and Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad have been encouraged to vote for Kao Denero through the official NEMA Awards voting platform to boost his chances of bringing the Best Male Hip-Hop Artist Africa award to Sierra Leone.











