Opinion don’t pay bills: Gospel singer Bunny Asila defends Bien over Africa Forward Summit backlash
Gospel singer Bunny Asila has come out strongly in support of award-winning singer Bien-Aimé Baraza following the online backlash surrounding his performance at the Africa Forward Le Concert, the official closing concert of the Africa Forward Summit 2026.
The debate erupted on social media shortly after Bien’s appearance at the high-profile event, with sections of Kenyans criticising aspects of his performance and stage presentation. However, Bunny Asila believes the criticism overlooks the bigger picture the continued growth and global recognition of Kenyan music.
You might also like
Taking to social media on Thursday,May 14,2026, the gospel singer defended Bien, arguing that success will always attract mixed reactions, especially when artists begin occupying larger international platforms.
“In every era when art reaches bigger stages, opinions will always divide.But beyond the noise, one truth stands; Kenyan music is rising and Bien-Aimé Baraza continues to represent it in bigger spaces,”Asila wrote.
He further encouraged the award-winning singer to remain focused despite the criticism.
“Bien endelea kupiga hustle, keep making money!!! In any case; opinions don’t pay bills!!!”he added.
Bien responds to criticism
Asila remarks comes hours 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.
Africa Forward Le Concert
The electrifying night music event drew high-profile dignitaries from across Africa, including President William Ruto and French President Emmanuel Macron, alongside senior government officials, diplomats, Cabinet Secretaries and creatives from across the continent.
Kenya’s delegation included Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Rebecca Miano, among other leaders.
President William Ruto, while addressing the crowd, praised Africa’s creative economy and its role in empowering young people.
“This is the grand finale where we are going to witness our finest artists. We believe that the creative economy and artists are one of our biggest engines of job creation and empowerment for our young people. We are very proud to be part of this event.”
Ruto also thanked Macron for visiting Kenya and strengthening ties between Africa and France.
“Emmanuel, thank you very much for paying us a visit. You are welcome to Kenya anytime. You have demonstrated to us that you are our friend,” he added.
