By BigEyeUg Team
Renowned Jamaican dancehall artist Vybz Kartel, recently released from prison, has confirmed Kenya as one of his top destinations for performances.
“Kenya on the list,” he tweeted, marking the country as a priority for his post-release tour.
The announcement comes nearly a week after the artist, whose real name is Adidja Azim Palmer, was freed from the Tower Street Adult Correctional facility in Kingston, Jamaica, after serving over ten years on murder charges.
In 2014, a Jamaican judge sentenced Vybz Kartel and three co-defendants to life in prison for the 2011 murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams, whose body was never found.
The artist’s freedom was secured after the United Kingdom-based Privy Council overturned the convictions in 2024 due to juror misconduct, leaving the case’s final decision to the Jamaican Court of Appeals.
Vybz Kartel’s influence extends far beyond Jamaica, particularly in Kenya, where his music and persona have inspired numerous local groups to name themselves after his crew, “Gaza.”
Areas such as Mombasa, Kayole, Mathare, Kibera, Kangemi, Githurai, and Kawangware have adopted the “Gaza” nickname in homage to the artist.
Despite being incarcerated, Vybz Kartel has maintained a significant presence in the music industry and is widely known by his monikers, Worl’ Boss and Teacha.
He began his career in 1993 with his first recording, “Love Fat Woman,” under the name Adi Banton, a tribute to Buju Banton.
The artist has reportedly been battling Graves’ Disease for nearly eight years, enduring what his attorney described as “inhumane” conditions.
As Vybz Kartel prepares to perform in Kenya, fans eagerly anticipate his return to the stage and the impact of his presence on the country’s vibrant music scene.
We will keep you posted