Burundi: Kidum Criticized for Performers' 'Visit Rwanda' Attire at Concert
Burundian artist Kidum faces backlash after his performers wore ‘Visit Rwanda’ outfits during his 50th birthday concert in Bujumbura. Credit:igihe
Burundian musician Nimbona Jean Pierre, popularly known as Kidum, has come under fire after his backup singers performed wearing outfits branded with ‘Visit Rwanda’ during his 50th birthday concert in Bujumbura on November 2, 2024.
The concert, attended by government officials, including the Minister of Internal Security, featured Kidum’s team of performers from Kenya. Kidum stated that he was unaware of the branding until after the concert.
“They told me their outfits had their names on them, but I didn’t pay attention to anything else,”
Kidum explained in an interview. He noted that it was only after the concert that he began receiving messages criticizing the attire.
Kidum added,
“I haven’t received any formal complaint, but people close to the authorities keep saying I made a mistake. I want to remind them not to blame me.”
He questioned the backlash, pointing out that Rwanda and Burundi are neighboring countries.
“Whether it’s Visit Rwanda or Visit Burundi, I don’t see why it should be a problem. These are brotherly nations.”
The criticism arises amidst ongoing tensions between Rwanda and Burundi, which have caused similar controversies, such as Dynamo BBC refusing to wear ‘Visit Rwanda’ jerseys, leading to their disqualification from the BAL tournament.
