WHAT was supposed to be a big night for artistes to show solidarity with their ailing colleague ended in disappointment. Only Rwf121,570 was raised from the concert that was expected to raise a substantial amount of funds towards the medical needs of singer Mako Nikoshwa who is bedridden at University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK).

The poor showing was largely blamed on the artistes who were scheduled to perform at a concert to raise funds but didn’t turn up. 

The concert was organised by fellow artists led by artiste Rafiki Mazimpaka at Quelque Part Bar & Restaurant located in the city centre on Friday, May 16.

According to the organisers, artists such as Momo, Allion, Riderman, Fireman and Tuff Gang among others had confirmed their participation but did not show up. 

"Even the artistes we expected were nowhere to be seen; I cannot believe this was really a fundraising concert for Mako,” said a disappointed fan at the concert.  

For the few who turned up, Artiste Jay C was the first on stage before paving way for Choga Style Man and later, Rafiki who managed to excite the audience with renditions of Mako Nikoshwa’s hits.

He belted out songs like Mujyane, Nkutekerezaho, Nza hora Ngukunda, and Ndakumbura before capping it with his own songs. 

Mixed reactions

While some people were grateful for the support saying it was better than nothing, others said it was an insult to a big artiste like Mako who is battling for his life.

"This is a shame to our musicians—besides how much has come from their side to support their fellow artiste,” one of the fans asked. 

However, Mazimpaka appreciated the support saying this was the beginning of the initiative to support Mako.

Afrobeat singer Mako Nikoshwa is highly respected for his old tracks like Nirere, Izuba rirashe and Bonne année, a popular song on local FM radio stations during the end of year festivities. 

Last year, he recorded songs like Ndakumbura and Nzahura ngukunda and early this year, he launched "Mako Nikoshwa Nite” a live performance that was meant to take place every Tuesday at Hilltop in Remera.