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Maina Kageni questions criticism against Bien over Africa Forward concert
13th May, 2026 08:28 AM
Radio host Maina Kageni has questioned criticism directed at Bien following his performance at the Africa Forward Summit Concert in Nairobi.
The radio presenter said he does not understand why some Kenyans are unhappy about the singer representing the country during the high-profile event.
“Not understanding why there’s some blow-back from a section of Kenyans about @bienaimesol performing at the Africa Forward Summit Concert last night,” Maina Kageni said.
Maina explained that he sees nothing wrong with Bien representing Kenyans on an African stage. According to him, the criticism surrounding the artiste’s appearance at the summit concert does not make sense to him.
“Surely… is there anything wrong with him representing Kenyans for Africa?” Maina Kageni asked on Wednesday, May 13, 2026.
The veteran radio presenter also reacted humorously to some of the online discussions surrounding the singer’s appearance. He dismissed suggestions that the criticism could be linked to Bien’s outfit during the event.
“Kwani iko nini???” Maina Kageni said.
“…and no, I don’t think it’s about his outstanding outfit,” Maina Kageni added.
Bien responds to criticism
The discussion comes shortly after Bien also addressed criticism following his appearance alongside French President Emmanuel Macron during the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi. The singer had been seen interacting with Macron during the diplomatic event, leading to an online debate about his presence.
Bien later responded through a statement shared on his official X account. He explained that engaging with global leaders does not mean abandoning his African identity or personal beliefs.
“I can sit at a table with global leaders and remain fully African, fully critical, and fully myself. Presence is not submission,” Bien said.
The former Sauti Sol member was among the distinguished guests attending diplomatic events held in Nairobi during Macron’s official state visit. He also attended the star-studded reception at State House, where Kenya and France marked a major bilateral milestone.
The appearance later became part of the wider cultural agenda linked to the Africa Forward Summit 2026, where music, diplomacy and African creative talent were brought together on one stage.
