Nairobi has unveiled its latest creative jewel: Studio Can-V, a modular music hub built entirely from repurposed shipping containers.
Launched at Kuona Artists Collective, the space is the brainchild of Jesse Mwenda, a Nairobi-based architect, DJ, and sustainability champion.
With a €50,000 grant from Jägermeister’s Save the Night Fund, Mwenda transformed derelict containers into fully-equipped DJ booths complete with turntables, mixers, streaming cameras, and acoustically treated walls.
By day, it serves as a classroom and rehearsal studio; by night, it morphs into an intimate livestream venue. Building what Jesse calls a “living library” of Kenyan electronic music.
“This is my answer to the struggle I faced starting out. borrowing gear, sneaking into friends’ houses to practice,” said Jesse during the launch toast. “Now, anyone can walk in and create.”
The vibe at the launch was electric, with performances from emerging DJs and appearances by nightlife powerhouses, Meisters, and Jägermeister’s global team, including Kea Kleihauer, who praised the project as a “Safe Zone” for inclusive creativity.
Founded in 2022, Studio Can-V is more than a DJ booth—it’s a non-profit cultural engine determined to make music production accessible. A second studio focused on beat-making and sound engineering is already in the works.
“Young Kenyans still need stages,” Jesse declared. “We’re recycling containers to recycle opportunity.”
