Anthony Walela Alleges How Fred Obachi Machokaa’s KSh30 Million Celebration Could Turn Into A Loss

Businessman Anthony Walela has shared insights into the financial risks and logistical challenges involved in organising major entertainment events, using his past experience promoting international music shows to explain why impressive gate collections do not always translate into profits.

Walela made the remarks while commenting on the upcoming celebration of veteran journalist Fred Obachi Machoka’s 50-year journey in journalism, an event expected to attract thousands of guests to the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi.

According to Walela, the celebration could generate millions of shillings from ticket sales alone. He noted that the minimum entry fee was KSh6,000, while guests seeking a VVIP experience would pay KSh28,000.

Based on his projections, Walela estimated that the event could attract at least 5,000 people, potentially generating KSh30 million in gate collections if all attendees paid the minimum ticket price.

However, he cautioned that organising a successful event involves more than securing a venue and selling tickets, as transport, accommodation, entertainment and unexpected circumstances can significantly affect the final financial outcome.

To illustrate his point, Walela recalled an experience from before the turn of the millennium when he partnered with Topi Lyambila to bring legendary Congolese musician Nyoka Longo and his Zaiko Langa Langa band to Kenya.

The organisers booked Safari Park Hotel for the performance and arranged return flights from Kinshasa to Nairobi for 20 band members. Three musicians travelled business class, while the rest flew economy.

Walela further revealed that the band’s leader insisted on staying at the Grand Regency Hotel, while eight female dancers were accommodated at the less expensive Grand Holiday Hotel along Accra Road.

Despite their preparations, the organisers encountered an unexpected setback when heavy rain and traffic congestion along Thika Road delayed the arrival of many guests.

By the time the show began at 10pm, most seats remained empty, leaving the organisers facing a disappointing turnout despite their substantial investment.

The experience convinced Walela never to engage in the business again. He concluded by wishing Machoka well, noting that hosting international performers with large entourages could be financially demanding.

His account highlights the importance of careful planning, transport coordination and risk management when organising major events.

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