Legendary Congolese music icon and globally celebrated Queen of Rhumba, Mbilia Bel, has arrived in Kenya ahead of a historic New Year crossover show set to take place at the ultra-modern Woods Africa Lounge and Restaurant in Kitui County.
The iconic singer was received on arrival by businessman and politician Dr Augustus Kyalo Muli, the proprietor of Woods Africa, in what marks a major cultural milestone for Kitui and the wider Lower Eastern region.
Speaking after landing, Mbilia Bel expressed joy at returning to Kenya and excitement about visiting Kitui for the first time.
“I am very happy to be back in Kenya and especially excited to be in Kitui for the first time. I am looking forward to celebrating the New Year with the people through music,” she said.
Powerful International–Local Crossover
The New Year crossover show will see Mbilia Bel headline alongside celebrated Kamba Benga maestro Katombi, creating a rare fusion of classic Congolese Rhumba and authentic Kamba sound on one stage.
The collaboration is being billed as a cultural crossover moment, bringing together international musical royalty and one of Ukambani’s most respected performers, in a night expected to attract fans from across the country.
A Historic First for Kitui
This performance marks the first time Kitui County is hosting a high-level international Rhumba artiste at such scale, underscoring the region’s growing status as an entertainment and cultural destination.
The newly built Woods Africa Lounge and Restaurant, located at the heart of Kitui town, boasts state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, an inbuilt VIP arena, ample parking, and a capacity of over 3,000 revelers, placing it among the most advanced entertainment venues in the region.
Mbilia Bel’s Return to Kenya
Mbilia Bel was last in Kenya during a previous presidential election period, where she made notable appearances and performances at high-profile political events, further strengthening her long-standing bond with Kenyan audiences.
Her return—this time purely for music and celebration—signals a renewed embrace of classic Rhumba and its enduring influence across generations.
Boost to Kitui’s Economy and Nightlife
The event is already generating excitement across Kitui, with hotels, transport operators, food vendors, and nightlife businesses reporting increased activity ahead of the crossover night.
Analysts say the show elevates Kitui’s cultural profile while firmly positioning Woods Africa as a venue capable of hosting international-standard events.
As anticipation builds, all eyes now turn to Kitui, where revelers are set to usher in the New Year in style—through a powerful blend of Rhumba royalty and Kamba musical excellence.
