Nviiri kicks off first major tour since becoming an independent artiste
By Ascah Mwango, April 23, 2026Vocalist and songwriter Nviiri the Storyteller has officially embarked on a new chapter of his career, hitting the road for his first major tour as an independent artiste.
The ‘Pombe Sigara’ hitmaker has launched the ‘Unapendwa On The Road’ tour, a series of intimate live performances designed to build momentum for his upcoming album, ‘Unapendwa’.
“UNAPENDWA – On The Road. Tukipita kwako, you’re part of the story now ✍🏿. Before the album drops… we bring it to you🤫🫣,” Nviiri wrote on social media on Thursday, April 23, 2026.
The tour represents a significant milestone for the artiste, born Nviiri Sande, following his high-profile departure from Sol Generation Records in 2024.
After years under the mentorship of Sauti Sol, Nviiri is now navigating the industry on his own terms, using this tour to bring his new sound directly to his fanbase.
The ‘Unapendwa’ tour is more than just a series of concerts; it is a strategic move to re-establish Nviiri’s brand outside the collective shadow of the Sol Family.
Performing with a full live band, the singer has promised fans a first look at his new material.
The decision to opt for intimate venues across Kenya suggests a desire to reconnect with the grassroots audience that propelled him to stardom during his breakout years in 2019 and 2021.
Nviiri’s departure from Sol Generation marked the end of an era that saw him release hit EPs like Kitenge and his 2023 album Inside Out. Now, as an independent act, the pressure is on to prove he can maintain his chart-topping streak without the backing of a major label.
The tour schedule includes several key stops, each curated to offer a “deep dive” into the themes of his upcoming project.
‘Unapendwa’, which translates to ‘You are loved’, is said to explore new musical territories while maintaining the storytelling lyricism that became his trademark.
As the tour kicks off, industry insiders are watching closely to see how the independent Nviiri resonates with the public. Early reports from the first stops suggest a high demand for his classic hits like ‘Niko Sawa’ alongside the new previews.
With the album drop expected later this year, the ‘On The Road’ series serves as the definitive litmus test for Nviiri the Storyteller’s solo roadmap. For the fans, it’s a rare chance to see a star in transition, perfecting his craft one stage at a time.