What to expect from the Harmony for Haiti Concert on Sunday

• Those lined up to perform include Khaligraph Jones, Trio Mio, Shyro Ogolla, Jabali Africa, Strong Yawezekana, and Aafisa.

• Their performances will not only entertain but also serve as a powerful call to action.

Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Dr. Korir Sing’oei with Khaligraph Jones

Kenya is set to host a one-of-a-kind concert, ‘Harmony for Haiti’, on Sunday at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi.

The concert is part of a large initiative called ‘Africa4Haiti’, a collaborative humanitarian and cultural initiative supported by Kenya Against Violence Org.

Africa4Haiti Initiative head Eduard Muito said the concert aims to support the people of Haiti during these challenging times.

“Proceeds from the Harmony4Haiti album will go directly towards providing much-needed aid to Haitians affected by gang violence, forced child involvement in gangs, gender-based violence and the looming threat of starvation,” he said.

“The funds will support initiatives aimed at protecting vulnerable populations, providing food and healthcare, and restoring some semblance of stability in the most affected regions.”

High-ranking government officials are expected to attend the concert, including representatives from the Foreign Affairs and Youth Affairs ministries.

“Their presence underscores the importance of this event and the Kenyan government's commitment to supporting Haiti,” Muito, who is also a strategic communications consultant, added.

The concert will feature performances by some of Kenya's most renowned artistes, who are coming together to lend their voices to the cause.

Those lined up to perform include Khaligraph Jones, Trio Mio, Shyro Ogolla, Jabali Africa, Strong Yawezekana, and Aafisa.

Their performances will not only entertain but also serve as a powerful call to action.

From left , Edward Muito - Chief Information Officer Afica4Haiti, ⁠Dr. A Korir Sing’Oei - Principal Secretary Foreign Affairs and ⁠Amb. Josphat K. Maikara - Deputy Director General Americas Directorate
Image: COURTESY

Purpose of the Harmony for Haiti Concert

The Harmony for Haiti Concert is a major cultural event designed to raise awareness and mobilise resources for the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Haiti.

The concert aims to unite Kenyans and the global community in support of Haiti, highlighting the dire need for food, security and protection, especially for women and children who are most vulnerable to the violence plaguing the nation.

Relationship with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs is deeply involved in the Harmony for Haiti Concert through the Africa4Haiti Initiative.

This event is part of their broader strategy to leverage Kenya’s soft power on the global stage, particularly in areas of cultural diplomacy and humanitarian assistance.

The concert is a testament to Kenya's commitment to supporting Haiti, not just through governmental channels but also by engaging civil society and the arts.

Expectations for Kenyans Attending the Concert

Kenyans attending the concert can expect a day filled with vibrant performances, heartfelt messages and opportunities to contribute to the ongoing relief efforts in Haiti.

Muito said beyond entertainment, the event is a chance to stand in solidarity with the people of Haiti, knowing that their participation directly contributes to alleviating the suffering caused by the current crises.

“At the event, there shall be a high-level and grassroots-fused action panel discussion, that will be aimed at firming up the understanding and bridging gaps between the diaspora and Africa also the role of Africa in Haiti’s Recovery,” he said.

“We shall change the narrative and conjoin Africa and our diaspora brothers and sisters. Through economic, people-to-people relations and trade, culture, environment and innovation, we can.”

Pre-Concert Activities

In the lead-up to the main event, a series of activities, including media awareness campaigns, community engagement events and fundraising drives have been held.

These activities aimed to build momentum and ensure that the concert has a significant impact at both local and international levels.

“We held the 1st ever Haitian Mothers’ Day Vigil at the historic Freedom Corner,” Muito said.

The venue was made famous by the late Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai.

She led Kenyan women and mothers in protests there that contributed to democracy and human dignity, environmental protection and fundamental freedoms.

Connecting the dots, Muito said the Haitian Revolt against the French was mainly led by women.

Other pre-concert activities included hosting Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry to a public lecture at USIU and holding a Diplomatic Breakfast Briefing at JW Marriott.

Kenya police officers ahead of Haiti deployment on June 24, 2024.
Image: COURTESY

Connection to the Kenyan Police Mission in Haiti

The Harmony for Haiti Concert is closely connected to the ongoing mission of Kenyan police forces in Haiti.

“Our officers are on the ground, working to stabilise the country amid the gang violence and humanitarian crises,” Muito said.

“The concert not only supports their efforts but also highlights the broader need for international cooperation in restoring peace and security in Haiti. They have also registered significant success in the mission.”

Muito, who is also the CEO of Vision2030 Youth Entrepreneurship, said Africa4Haiti Initiative is committed to future entry to Haiti to establish youth empowerment programmes.

It also aspires to set up psychosocial support services and agribusiness programmes to create employment for young Haitians and families.

Muito added that the Africa4Haiti Initiative appreciates Ps. Dr. Abraham Korir Sing’Oei Principal Secretary State Department for Foreign Affairs and the entire Interministerial Committee led, by Amb. Joshphat Waikara, Director of Americas Directorate.

The members of the Interministerial Committee for their coordination.

Sing’Oei has been instrumental in the collaboration and has supported A4H in its timely initiative,

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