Koffi Olomidé Steals the Show at Fred Machoka’s 50-Year Media Anniversary in Nairobi

Congolese rhumba legend Koffi Olomidé delivered a lively performance at veteran Kenyan broadcaster Fred Obachi Machoka’s 50th anniversary in the media industry, turning the celebrations into a memorable night for music lovers.

The concert, dubbed Machoka at 50 Grand Concert, was held at Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi on Saturday, October 10, 2026. It brought together celebrated musicians from Kenya and other African countries to honour Machoka’s five decades in broadcasting.

Olomidé, popularly known as Grand Mopao, headlined the event with his band, Quartier Latin International, and singer Cindy Le Coeur. His performance featured popular songs, including Effrakata, as fans sang along and danced to his distinctive rhumba sound.

The Congolese star also showcased his signature soukous dance moves, keeping the audience entertained throughout his set. His stage presence added to the excitement of an event that celebrated both music and Machoka’s longstanding contribution to Kenya’s entertainment industry.

The concert ran from midday until midnight, attracting rhumba enthusiasts, media personalities and other prominent guests. Its lineup reflected the influence of Congolese rhumba on Kenyan music and the role Machoka has played in promoting the genre over the years.

Why Koffi Olomidé’s appearance meant so much to Machoka

Machoka has a longstanding relationship with Olomidé, whom he regards as a younger brother. The veteran broadcaster has said he helped introduce the Congolese musician to Kenyan audiences when the singer was still building his career.

That connection gave the anniversary celebration a personal dimension beyond the headline performance. Olomidé’s appearance honoured a broadcaster who has spent decades championing rhumba and introducing audiences to music from across the continent.

Machoka, popularly known as The Blackest Man in Black Africa, began his media career in 1975 through the SANYO Juu SANYO talent show. Over the years, he became one of Kenya’s prominent radio personalities and a passionate promoter of Congolese music.

The anniversary concert also featured other celebrated performers, including Congolese singer Mbilia Bel and Cameroonian musician Sam Fan Thomas. Kenyan groups Les Wanyika and Them Mushrooms added local flavour to the continental lineup.

Their performances brought together different generations of African music, reflecting the broad musical legacy associated with Machoka’s career.

The event was promoted by Citizen TV Kenya, with advance regular tickets priced at KSh 5,000. VIP tickets cost KSh 15,000, while VVIP entry was set at KSh 25,000.

Among the prominent guests reported at the celebrations were Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka and Central Organization of Trade Unions Secretary-General Francis Atwoli.

Sifuna’s arrival attracted enthusiastic chants from the crowd, adding a political dimension to an evening primarily dedicated to Machoka’s media milestone.

The concert highlighted Machoka’s enduring connection with audiences and the musicians whose work he has promoted throughout his career.

With Olomidé leading the performances alongside other African music veterans, the celebration brought together broadcasting, entertainment and cultural heritage under one roof.

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