By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Sierra Leone’s Entertainment Ambassador, Amara Denis Turay, popularly known as Kao Denero, has once again placed the nation on the continental map by winning Best Hip Hop Rapper at the prestigious African Golden Awards 2025, held in Nairobi, Kenya.
This marks the second major continental award for the Sierra Leonean rap icon, whose talent, perseverance, and lyrical brilliance have earned him immense respect across Africa’s hip-hop scene. In a category brimming with continental heavyweights—including Ghana’s Sarkodie, Kenya’s Khaligraph Jones, Nigeria’s M.I, and South Africa’s Nasty C—Kao Denero emerged victorious, a testament to his growing influence and the loyalty of his fan base.
The atmosphere in Nairobi’s packed awards hall erupted with cheers when Kao Denero’s name was announced. Dressed in traditional Sierra Leonean attire, the rapper stepped on stage with humility and pride as he accepted the award.
“We keep making Sierra Leone proud globally,” he said in an emotional acceptance speech. “Thanks to all who voted. Big things come from small places.”
His words struck a powerful chord with the audience, echoing far beyond the stage and resonating deeply with aspiring artistes across the continent who often feel overlooked in favour of talent from more prominent entertainment markets.
The African Golden Awards, one of the continent’s premier music and cultural recognition platforms, celebrates excellence in African music, film, fashion, and arts. Kao Denero’s victory not only underscores his artistic consistency but also symbolizes the rise of Sierra Leone in the African entertainment industry.
This latest recognition adds to Kao Denero’s long list of accolades and milestones. As Sierra Leone’s official Entertainment Ambassador, he has actively worked to promote and elevate local artistes, create cross-border collaborations, and bridge cultural gaps through music. His leadership and visibility have contributed to greater international recognition for Sierra Leonean talent.
“It’s not just about me,” Kao Denero said in a backstage interview. “This win is for Sierra Leone, for the young boys and girls in the ghettos, for the fans who never gave up, and for African hip-hop. We’re showing the world that we belong.”
Social media exploded with praise and congratulations following his win, with fans, fellow artistes, and government officials hailing it as a proud moment for the nation. The hashtag #KaoWinsAGA2025 quickly trended across several platforms, with fans celebrating the victory as a moment of national pride.
In Freetown, impromptu celebrations broke out in various neighborhoods, with fans waving Sierra Leonean flags, blasting Kao Denero’s music, and expressing joy over the international recognition of one of their own. “Kao Denero winning this award shows that Sierra Leone’s music industry is growing stronger,” said Hawa Sesay, a university student and long-time fan. “We are finally being seen and heard across Africa.”
As Kao Denero returns home to Sierra Leone, the anticipation for what comes next in his career is building. With upcoming projects hinted at during his speech, fans are eager to see how he continues to use his platform to uplift his country and the African hip-hop scene at large.
For now, however, the focus is on celebration—and rightly so. Kao Denero’s victory at the African Golden Awards 2025 is not just a personal triumph, but a resounding win for Sierra Leone and African hip-hop.
