KISUMU: Christmas will come early for Rhumba fans as legendary Congolese musician Koffi Olomide is set to perform in Kisumu City on December 14th. The show, dubbed Mzuqa Fest, will feature some of the biggest Luo music artistes as they delight fans in the lakeside city during the Christmas festivities. Those set to open for Olomide include Prince Inda, Apesi, and Madanje Perimeter. Also performing is the celebrated Zaiko Langa Langa band, alongside a host of other upcoming local artistes.
According to Kenya News Agency, the show, to be held at the 30,000-seater Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo, has generated significant excitement among Rhumba fans. This marks the second time Koffi Olomide will perform in the country after he was deported in 2016 following a viral video incident. Concert promoter Dr. Ofweneke mentioned that tickets are nearly sold out and encouraged fans to secure their spots for the anticipated show. He noted that Kisumu and the larger Western Kenya region are the largest Rhu
mba fan bases in the country and that the show, sponsored by Cape Media, is a special treat for the fans.
Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang Nyong’o remarked that the event underscores Kisumu City’s status as a vibrant entertainment and tourist hub. He emphasized that hosting an artist of Koffi Olomide’s stature is a privilege and reflects the progress Kisumu has made in embracing cultural diversity and artistic excellence. The festival, he added, is aligned with the County Government of Kisumu’s vision to elevate the city’s profile on the global stage. Initiatives like Mzuqa Fest aim to position the region as a destination for music, culture, and entertainment, contributing to the broader ‘Kisumu My Pride’ campaign.
Faridah Salim, Kisumu County Executive Committee Member in Charge of Trade, Tourism, Industry, and Marketing, stated that the event is expected to boost tourism in the area. Hotels and small traders are anticipated to benefit significantly from the concert.