Benga maestro Bernard Mbatha, popularly known as Kativui, held a grand dowry payment event on Saturday that attracted fans from all over.
However, there was a notable absence of fellow Benga artists, raising eyebrows and sparking lively discussions online.
TV presenter Star Kivisi first highlighted the issue, taking to social media to express his surprise at the lack of industry support.
“I didn’t see any single Benga artist in this event. The only journalists present were me, Biado, Noma, and Mulisi. This just shows how we Kamba people sometimes lack unity. Thank you, fans, for showing up in such large numbers,” Kivisi posted.
The post quickly went viral, drawing a wave of reactions from fans and followers. Many questioned why Kativui’s fellow artists didn’t show up, while others speculated about potential reasons for their absence.
Some fans pointed fingers at Kativui himself, wondering if he even extended invitations to other artists.
“Was anyone invited? You can’t assume support if you don’t extend it first,” commented one user, Abednego Mulwa. Others pointed out that Kativui rarely attends other artists’ events, suggesting that “tit for tat” might have played a role.
Another fan, Francis Muli, added an insightful perspective, noting, “Fans are the real supporters of artists, not necessarily fellow musicians.”
Here are more reactions;
Brandon Mutuku said, “What I Am Very Sure Of Is …He Did Not Even Expect Them.”
Alfie Alfredo commented, “Consider some factors: Where were they invited?? Does he attend other artists’ functions??…. No need to judge anyway”
“Sir mwenge was right, apa benga nation Kuna shida,” wrote Mbithi Shed.
In addition to that , kativui haendangi za wenzake … tit for tat,”said Yarabi Mtoto.
