Rhumba fans in Kisumu are in for an early Christmas treat as legendary Congolese musician Koffi Olomide is set to perform on December 14th at the Mzuqa Fest. The event, which marks the start of the Christmas festivities, will also feature some of the biggest Luo music artists, including Prince Inda, Apesi, and Madanje Perimeter, alongside the celebrated Zaiko Langa Langa band and other local talents.
The concert will take place at the 30,000-seat Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo, generating much excitement among Rhumba enthusiasts. This marks Koffi Olomide’s second performance in Kenya after his deportation in 2016, following a viral video of him assaulting a woman.
Concert promoter Dr. Ofweneke shared that tickets were nearly sold out and urged fans to secure their spots for the highly anticipated show. He emphasized that Kisumu and the larger Western Kenya region are major hubs for Rhumba music, making this event especially significant for local fans.
“Kisumu is an entertainment city, and this show is going to be big,” Dr. Ofweneke said, reflecting on the area’s passion for Rhumba music legends like Franco, Sam Mangwana, and Koffi Olomide.
Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang Nyong’o highlighted the event as a symbol of Kisumu’s growing reputation as a cultural and entertainment hub. “Hosting an artist of Koffi Olomide’s stature is a privilege and shows Kisumu’s progress in embracing cultural diversity and artistic excellence,” he said.
The festival, he added, is a key part of the county’s efforts to boost tourism and promote Kisumu globally. Faridah Salim, Kisumu County Executive Member for Trade, Tourism, and Marketing, noted that the event would significantly benefit local businesses, including hotels and small traders, while supporting Kisumu’s tourism growth.