By Andrew Kariuki
Dancehall star Vybz Kartel has publicly denied claims that he will headline the Talanta East Afrika Festival tour scheduled to take place across East Africa in May 2026, raising questions about the earlier announcement made by event organisers.22
In a statement posted on his official social media pages, Kartel said he had become aware of circulating reports claiming he would embark on an East African tour, but clarified that neither he nor his management team had authorised or confirmed any such performances.
“Let me be absolutely clear: neither my management nor I have any knowledge of, or involvement in, any such tour. No East African shows have been announced or confirmed by my team,” Kartel stated.
The Jamaican dancehall icon further warned fans, promoters and venues against engaging with individuals claiming to organise the shows on his behalf, cautioning that such claims could potentially be fraudulent.
“Any individuals, promoters, or platforms claiming to be booking or advertising these shows are acting without authorization and are misleading the public,” he said.
“Fans, promoters and venues are strongly advised not to engage with or send money to anyone making such claims, as these may be scams.”
Kartel’s statement comes just days after organisers of the Talanta East Afrika Festival announced during a press conference in Nairobi that the dancehall star would headline the newly launched regional cultural showcase.
According to the organisers, the festival was expected to tour three cities; Kampala, Kigali and Nairobi, beginning on May 1, 2026 at Lugogo Cricket Oval in Uganda, followed by a performance at BK Arena in Kigali on May 2, before concluding in Nairobi on May 8 at Laureate Gardens.
The event had been promoted as a cross-border cultural platform aimed at celebrating East Africa’s music, fashion, cuisine and artistic expression, while positioning the region as an emerging force in the global entertainment industry.
Organisers had also announced that Kenyan artist Charisma would be among the performers appearing at the festival, with additional East African artists expected to be revealed in the coming weeks.
They had further indicated that tickets for the festival would go on sale online starting March 9, 2026 and that the event would primarily target audiences aged between 18 and 35, while also boosting tourism and employment in the host cities.
Kartel’s denial now casts uncertainty over the festival’s headline act and could force organisers to clarify the status of the event and the claims surrounding the star’s involvement.
As of now, the organisers of the Talanta East Afrika Festival have not issued an official response to Kartel’s statement.
