Zimbabwean musician Mambo Dhuterere has withdrawn from the Africa Music Festival set to take place in the UK this weekend due to a payment disagreement with the event’s promoters.
The festival, which will feature performances by Alick Macheso, Koffi Olomide, Makhadzi, Chef 187, and Tocky Vibes, is scheduled for Saturday at Abbey Park in Leicester.
There will also be an after-party on Saturday at Kapital Venue, with an additional show on Sunday at the same location.
Dhuterere expressed his disappointment in a Facebook post, revealing that he had to pull out because the promoters only guaranteed payment upon his arrival in the UK, despite the contract stating otherwise. The festival is organized by Y2K Entertainment Promotions.
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“It’s unfortunate we won’t be attending due to a minor misunderstanding… I personally thank Y2K for believing in me and for the opportunity to share the stage with African giants. To our fans in Europe, thank you…
“They secured visas and bought tickets for everyone, but management decided that Europe is too far to risk being paid upon arrival when the contract stipulates payment before departure…” Dhuterere wrote.
The musician expressed particular regret for his fans who were eager to see him perform live in the UK.
“I’m heartbroken, and I know my supporters feel the same. Your disagreements affect me and my fans significantly; some people gave up everything to come and see Mambo, and that means a lot to me. I love you all,” he posted.
Last year’s edition of the festival brought its share of controversy, as Makhadzi and Jah Prayzah complained before the thousands of fans about the time they were given on stage, with the former even alleging sabotage.
Makhadzi would later go and let rip live on Facebook claiming the organisers had conspired to sabotage her and Jah Prayzah in order to promote Winky D.
