We want him always here: Atwoli praises Fally Ipupa’s performance
By Katemarthason Okudo, September 6, 2026Central Organisation of Trade Unions – Kenya (COTU-K) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli has praised Congolese music star Fally Ipupa following his performance at the singer’s Nairobi concert, saying Kenyans would welcome him back to the country.
Atwoli shared his reaction in a video posted on social media on Sunday, September 6, 2026, a day after Fally Ipupa performed at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi.
The COTU boss said he enjoyed the show and was impressed by the reception the Congolese singer received from Kenyan fans.
“Yes, the show was very nice. That was a wonderful show. I enjoyed the performance by Fally Ipupa. We want him here always,” Atwoli said.
Atwoli asks Fally to return
Atwoli also revealed that he had met Fally Ipupa at his hotel in Nairobi before the concert.
He used the message to encourage the singer to return to Kenya, saying the reception from fans showed the strong connection between the artiste and his Kenyan audience.
Addressing the Congolese star directly, Atwoli said Kenya would be ready to welcome him back for another performance.
“Fally Ipupa, this is Francis Atwoli. We talked when I came to the hotel at Kempinski. We want you back in Kenya. You have seen how Kenyans love you. They love your music,” he said.
The COTU secretary-general also pointed to Kenya’s reputation as a peaceful destination, inviting the singer to return and spend more time in the country.
Fally Ipupa brings Nairobi to life
Fally Ipupa performed at Uhuru Gardens on Saturday, September 5, 2026, as part of a concert that brought together Congolese rhumba, Amapiano and Kenyan music.
The event began at 5 pm and continued into the early hours of Sunday, with the official programme scheduled to run until 3 am.
Fally Ipupa headlined a line-up that included South African Amapiano star Kamo Mphela and DJ Maphorisa. Kenyan artistes and entertainers including Kodong Klan, DJ Joe Mfalme, DJ Ice and Tango Supreme also featured on the programme.
‘Kenyans love your music’
Atwoli said the large turnout demonstrated the interest Kenyan fans have in Fally Ipupa’s music, particularly among young people. He thanked those who attended the concert and noted that the crowd had come out to enjoy the Congolese singer’s music and lyrics.
“I want to thank Kenyans who turned up in large numbers. Kenyans have been very happy. Young Kenyans are interested in enjoying Fally Ipupa’s music,” he said.
He further described the Kenyan audience as special, saying the singer had experienced a reception that would be difficult to find elsewhere on the continent. “You have seen how Kenyans love you. They love your music. They love your lyrics,” Atwoli said.
Fally Ipupa’s latest visit adds to his growing connection with Kenyan audiences, with the Nairobi concert giving fans another opportunity to experience his Congolese rhumba sound alongside other African and local performers.