On June 9, BK Arena will host UB40 featuring Ali Campbell, marking the group’s first performance in Rwanda. The British reggae band is scheduled to take the stage as part of its international tour promoting the album The Big Love. ALSO READ: 10 things to do in Kigali this weekend For many listeners in Rwanda, UB40’s catalogue is familiar territory. Songs such as “Red Red Wine,” “Kingston Town,” and “(I Can’t Help) Falling in Love With You” have long featured on radio playlists, in taxis and at social gatherings. The Kigali concert brings those recordings to a live audience that spans generations. UB40 was formed in 1978 in Birmingham, England. The name references “Unemployment Benefit, Form 40,” a document issued to job seekers in Britain at the time. ALSO READ: Bien, Joshua Baraka to headline BAL playoffs halftime shows in Kigali The band went on to blend reggae, dub and pop influences, building a global following and selling more than 70 million records. Its chart success in the United Kingdom, the United States and other markets established it as one of the most commercially successful reggae acts of its era. Ali Campbell, whose vocals shaped many of the band’s best-known recordings, now fronts UB40 featuring Ali Campbell. The current touring lineup continues to perform the group’s back catalogue alongside newer material. The concert adds to BK Arena’s growing list of international bookings. The venue has in recent years hosted major concerts and sporting events, strengthening Kigali’s reputation as a stop on regional touring circuits. Guy Hedderwick, Managing Director of QA Venue Solutions Rwanda, said landing established acts signals confidence from international promoters. “When a name like UB40 comes to BK Arena, that sends a message that people no longer hesitate to come to Rwanda. The same thing happened after the Doja Cat concert,” he said. Hedderwick also said ticket buyers using BK Cards will receive a 30 percent discount under the arena’s naming rights partnership with BK. Tickets are available through Ticqet. Reggae has maintained a steady audience in Rwanda for decades. Artistes including Alpha Blondy, Burning Spear and Lucky Dube have previously performed in the country, drawing large crowds. Their music, often centered on social commentary and unity, has resonated with local audiences. Organizers expect the June 9 show to attract both longtime fans and younger listeners discovering the band’s music through streaming platforms. Hospitality and nightlife operators in Kigali are preparing for increased activity around the concert weekend.
