Octopizzo urges African artistes to embrace history and cultural power
By Ascah Mwango, May 14, 2026Kenyan hip-hop star Octopizzo has called on African artistes to understand cultural symbolism and the power of soft power whenever they perform on global stages.
In a statement shared through his X account on Thursday, May 14, the rapper said artistes can no longer separate creativity from history, especially at a time when global audiences are constantly interpreting fashion, music and symbolism. His remarks came amid online debate surrounding Bien-Aimé Baraza and the outfit he wore during the Africa Forward Summit concert in Nairobi.
“At this point, it should be non-negotiable: every artist operating on any global stage must understand cultural symbolism and the power of cultural soft power,” Octopizzo stated.
The rapper, known for blending activism with music, said African creatives carry more than entertainment whenever they represent the continent abroad. According to him, history, identity and storytelling all move together with art.
“For African artists in particular, knowing our history is not optional; it is foundational. It shapes how we tell our stories, how we are perceived internationally, and how we reclaim narrative power in spaces that have often misunderstood or erased us,” he added.
“Art without cultural literacy is incomplete. Art grounded in African history becomes influential,” Octopizzo wrote.
Bien’s performance
The discussion emerged after Bien performed at the Africa Forward Summit concert attended by William Ruto and Emmanuel Macron. His leopard-print outfit drew comparisons online to former Zaire leader Mobutu Sese Seko, a figure remembered both for promoting African identity and for his controversial leadership.
The rapper has built a career around socially conscious music and outspoken commentary on African identity, youth culture and politics. Born Henry Ohanga, Octopizzo rose from Nairobi’s Kibera slums to become one of Kenya’s most recognisable hip-hop voices. Over the years, he has released projects including LDP, Chocolate City and Refugeenius, while also gaining recognition for humanitarian work through the Octopizzo Foundation.
Beyond music, Octopizzo has regularly spoken on youth leadership, police brutality, matatu culture and the role African artists play in shaping political and cultural conversations.