Why Sauti Sol changed the venue of Sol Festival

Sauti Sol has announced the new venue for the much-anticipated Sol Festival set to go down on December 17, 2022, at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC). In a letter released via their official social media pages, the group's management cited security as the main reason for the change of venue of the event which was initially set to take place at Fox Drive-In, Thika Road. Sauti Sol said the change has been necessitated by the significant increase in criminal activity over the recent months, affecting the initially planned venue. “Sol Fest is moving to a new venue for its 2022 edition, and we are happy to announce that we shall be partnering with the Kenyatta International Convention Centre to host this year's event on December 17th, 2022,” the group said. Also read: Kenyan woman’s love for mutura in what seemed like a perfect marriage "Following consultation with our security service providers, who have also consulted with various security agencies, it was established that the areas surrounding the previous location of choice for SolFest (Fox Drive-In, Thika Road), has had a significant increase in criminal activity over the recent months,” the group's statement reads in part.  According to the organizers of the concert, a lot of consultations happened before the festival was moved to KICC. “Sol Fest Corporation’s number one priority is the safety of our patrons, artists, and partners," the group said. Also read: 10 Most watched YouTube music videos in Kenya for 2022 The Sol Fest management added that they are using their 2021 edition as a benchmark and are therefore not ready to disappoint their fans. Among many artistes lined up to perform at Sol Fest are Octopizzo, Harmonize, Nviiri the Storyteller, Bensoul, Sauti Sol, Matata, Burukyln Boyz, Brandy Maina, Charisma, Nadia Mukami and Fena Gitu. Spin masters expected on the deck include Fully Focus, Kaneda, CNG & Cream, Grauchi, DJ KK and DJ Lordwin with NRG’s DJ Xclusive as the official MC. Also read: Samidoh’s wife to fly to Dubai for reunion after 3-months apart