Vybz Kartel, one of Jamaica’s most influential dancehall artists, has declared his desire to perform in Kenya during his upcoming world tour -a move that has stirred excitement among fans across the country.
In a message shared online, Kartel described himself as a “Kenyan Jamaican,” praising the strong support he has received from Kenyan listeners over the years. “Mi ah Kenyan Jamaican. Kenya support mi music big time,” he said in a statement released through his team. “Mi haffi come perform.”
The announcement, though lacking specifics on dates or venue, was enough to ignite anticipation among Kenyan dancehall lovers. Kartel, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, also made a direct appeal to local event organisers.
“Promoters in Kenya, link up. Let’s make this happen,” he added.
A Loyal Fanbase, A Long-Awaited Performance
Kartel’s music enjoys significant airplay in Kenya, especially in Nairobi and Mombasa, where reggae and dancehall have deep cultural roots. Local DJs and radio shows often feature his tracks, and his name trends regularly on Kenyan social media, despite his incarceration in Jamaica since 2011.
His legal team has confirmed that although he remains in custody, arrangements for performances, including virtual appearances, are being explored in select countries. Kenya, it seems, is high on that list.
“He knows how much Kenyan fans have stood by him,” said a representative close to his management. “It’s only natural he’d want to give something back.”
A Wait for Details, But Not for Hype
No official tour calendar has been released yet, and the Kenyan stop remains unconfirmed. But industry insiders believe promoters are already considering the logistics of a potential show, whether physical or virtual.
Peter Mureithi, a veteran concert organiser in Nairobi, says the demand is there. “If Kartel touches down here, even virtually, it’ll be massive. He’s not just popular — he’s a cultural icon to many youth.”
Still, others remain cautious.
“Let’s wait and see how the logistics play out,” said Susan Nyongesa, an entertainment writer. “It’s one thing to want a concert; it’s another to make it happen, especially under these conditions.”
A Bridge Between Cultures
Vybz Kartel’s interest in Kenya is not new. Over the years, he has occasionally acknowledged his African fanbase, but this is the most direct appeal he’s made to one country on the continent.
Whether or not the show materialises, fans say they feel seen.
“He understands us,” said Brian Odhiambo, 23, a university student in Kisumu. “We’ve been bumping his music since high school. He owes us this concert!”
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