Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
Zambian musician Yo Maps’ fans in Hwange were left disappointed after the artiste failed to turn up for a show that had been slated for Saturday (September 26).
The concert, which was part of Yo Maps’ album tour, was expected to attract music lovers in the mining town, but the artiste did not make an appearance, leaving fans and event stakeholders seeking answers.
Events promoter Praise Ntex has since apologised to the Hwange community, saying those involved in the local organisation of the event were also unaware that Yo Maps would not perform.
In a statement, Ntex said his team had been engaged by Big Events to assist with the marketing of the concert and ticket sales.
He said they proceeded with the preparations after conducting due diligence and receiving what appeared to be a confirmation that Yo Maps would perform in Zimbabwe on September 26.
“Big Events company engaged me and the team I work with to assist them with marketing their Yo Maps Album tour. I did the due diligence and all seemed in order and we proceeded with pushing the event and tickets into our community,” said Ntex.
According to Ntex, several factors gave them confidence that the show would go ahead.
He said Yo Maps had shared a flyer on his social media platforms indicating that he would be in Zimbabwe on September 26 for his album tour.
He added that the artiste had also provided a video confirming his participation, while a temporary work permit from the Immigration Department had been shared as proof that the necessary documentation and payments had been processed.
However, the situation changed on the day of the event as Ntex said the promoter disappeared from the venue after collecting money from ticket vendors.
“The unfortunate part is that the event promoter vanished from the venue after collecting all the money from ticket vendors when we were now awaiting final confirmation about the headline act’s performance time slot,” he said.
Ntex said attempts to contact the promoter had failed, with his phone remaining unanswered.
He apologised to the Hwange community for the inconvenience and losses suffered as a result of the failed show.
“I humbly apologise to the Hwange community for any inconvenience and loss they suffered because of the promoter and the artiste. I reiterate that no one involved in the event knew that the artiste was not showing up at any time before or during the event,” he said.
The failed show has left questions over the circumstances surrounding Yo Maps’ absence and the handling of the event, with affected fans now seeking refund.
