Kenyan pop band Sauti Sol on Saturday, December 19, cancelled a much-anticipated concert at the last minute.
In a statement, the band indicated that the event size did not comply with the Kenyan Covid-19 protocols and regulations.
"We regret to inform you that we shall not be performing at today's scheduled 'Sol Saturday' event. Although we deeply desire to give you a marvellous show, we cannot in good conscience assure your health and safety, which is our highest priority," reads an excerpt of the statement.
Together with the promoters Tukutane Entertainment Limited and Masshouse Group Limited, the band disclosed that they had found it hard to mitigate the situation and could not find a solution.
"With the recent uptick in confirmed infections and deaths around the world, we cannot in good conscience recklessly endanger your well being," the band explained.
The group stated that it would be refunding the event's promoters so that they would, in turn, repay Kenyans who had paid for tickets.
"It is disheartening and unfortunate, but necessary and we hope to appear on stage again soon as we can do so, safely and responsibly," the communication added.
Tickets for the show had cost Ksh 2,500 and Ksh 6,000 and were already sold out.
The event was set to take place at the Waterfront Mall in Karen, Nairobi between midday and 8 pm.
Fans have since expressed their disappointment at the cancellation of the event.
"I’ve been looking forward to going to a Sauti Sol concert. I even had a tailor-made suit. Now it's here and I can’t even go. I hope they’ll go live so that I wear my two-piece and watch from the house," a fan named Chelimo stated.
