BAR, HOTEL AND LIQUOR TRADERS ASSOCIATION CALLS OUT KENYAN ARTISTS OVER LAST-MINUTE SHOW CANCELLATIONS

The Bar, Hotel and Liquor Traders Association of Kenya (BAHLITA) has expressed dissatisfaction with local musicians frequently cancelling shows at the last minute. 

The warning follows a surge in complaints from venue owners who say performance contracts are increasingly being breached. In its statement, BAHLITA highlighted a public notice from Space Next Door Sports Bar & Grill, which announced the abrupt cancellation of a scheduled performance by artist Willy Paul. According to the venue, the event had been fully organised, confirmed, and paid for in advance.

Boniface Gachoka, Secretary General of BAHLITA, said the association is concerned about what he described as a growing trend where entertainers fail to honour performance agreements after receiving payment or formal confirmation. “These actions cause significant financial losses, reputational damage, operational disruptions and inconvenience to event organisers, business owners and patrons,” Gachoka stated.

He further noted that such conduct undermines the professional relationship between artists and entertainment establishments across the country.