- Protests in Kenya have sparked support from international celebrities due to the controversial Finance Bill 2024
- Jamaican reggae star Kabaka Pyramid and English Premier League star Cole Palmer are among the notable figures expressing solidarity
- Ugandan musician and politician Bobi Wine voiced concern over reported abductions of young activists in Kenya
In a wave of protests that have swept across Kenya in response to the controversial Finance Bill 2024, international celebrities are stepping up to show their support.
These protests, sparked by an overwhelming dissatisfaction with proposed tax increases, have caught the attention of the global community, with several notable figures expressing their solidarity with the Kenyan people.
Notable figures from Jamaica, Uganda, Nigeria and even South Africa gave their voices on the protests which have seen 23 dead and scores injured.
Jamaican celebrities who spoke on the matter
Jamaican reggae star Kabaka Pyramid is among the prominent voices lending support. The Grammy Award winner shared a heartfelt message in a video, praising the courage and determination of Kenyan protesters.
"What an inspiration! More strength and perseverance to all the youth taking a stand against the insane tax increase in Kenya!! I wish my people in Jamaica could rise up and speak up against our government," Kabaka Pyramid declared, highlighting the universal struggle against oppressive policies.
READ: List of Kenyan pastors and their stance on the Finance Bill 2024
Popcaan, Vybz Kartel & Konshens message to Kenyans
Kabaka is not the only Jamaican artist rallying behind Kenyans. Dancehall star Popcaan also shared a message of hope for Kenyans.
"Prayers and strength to my Kenyans, stay strong our there, RIP to those who lost their lives during the protest," he wrote on his X page.
Vbyz Kartel on his page shared a message through a dove with a Kenyan flag and Cecile on the other hand on her Instagram stories put up the Kenyan flag with a plea for safety.
Konshens expressed his solidarity asking the government to listen to Kenyans.
READ: Unkept promises: 3 things Ruto vowed not to use against his critics that he has
Female Jamaican stars give their voices on the protests
Songstress Etana who has visited Kenya numerous times also had a message for the Kenyan people.
Etana in a video message said the people need to be heard asking the Kenyan government to listen to the people.
"Sending love and Strength to you all! #rejectfinancebill2024. I pray your great leaders come together and that the resolution will be swift," said Etana.
Queen Ifrica's message
Singer Queen Ifrica on her part said the fight is of the anctestors urging Kenyans not to allow infiltration by oppressors.
"Dear beloved Kenyan we are asking the continet to stand up for freedom stand up for justice and equal rights on behalf of our ancestors.
"Do not be infiltrated by the oppressors make sure your demonstration is on behalf of our ancestors.
"We stand with you and at the end of the day the system must fall. Aluta Continua" said Queen Ifrica.
Joe Boy and Tekno Miles speak from Nigeria
The protests also caught the attention of West African celebrities who enjoy a huge fan base in the country.
From Nigeria Joe Boy and Tekno Miles sent their messages of solidarity to Kenyans,.
Tekno Miles in his message stated that the happenings in Kenya are not the wish for Africa.
"What is going on in Kenya, this is not the Africa... speak up for Kenya," wrote Tekno on his Instagram.
READ: We ask for forgiveness! MP seeks pardon after voting yes to Finance Bill
Joe Boy on his part supported the protests saying the fight was for the future of Kenyans.
"Love and prayers to my Kenyan brothers and sisters as they fight for a better way of life and future," he wrote on his X page.
Neigbours Uganda speak up
Bobi Wine's message to Kenyans
Ugandan musician and politician Bobi Wine also voiced his concern over the situation in Kenya.
Bobi Wine, known for his activism, expressed his disappointment at the reported abductions of young activists.
"Very concerned by reports of ongoing abductions of young activists in Kenya. We in Uganda understand the pain of illegal arrests, abductions and enforced disappearances which are a common occurrence in our country," he stated.
READ: Ruto goes after alleged planners, financiers, orchestrators of Tuesday protests
Wine's call for action was clear and urgent: "I join all persons of good conscience in condemning these abductions and call upon the Kenyan authorities to urgently release all those illegally detained. Uphold the rights of all citizens, including those opposed to the Finance Bill 2024."
Message from veteran Uganda opposition leader Kizza Besigye Kifefe
Prominent Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye witnessed the matters first hand as he was in Nairobi and he did not relent in urging Kenyans to push forward in their quest for freedom.
"I am in Nairobi and my heart goes out to all the Kenyans who’ve lost their lives and those injured as they protest against taxes imposed on them.
"I am proud of all, especially, the young Gen Z, protesters that are valiantly facing guns and other lethal weapons demanding justice! Freedom & Justice come at a price, which we have to pay- sooner or later," said Besigye.
Julius Malema speaks from South Africa
From South Africa politician and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party Leader Julius Malema sent his message of support to Kenyans.
Malema in his message said the actions of the Kenyan youth were making the continent proud.
"Keep making us proud, Kenyan youth. You're doing an amazing job!" said Malema.
READ: IMF issues statement after fatalities during anti-Finance Bill protests
More international figures from the continent and beyond continue to give their voice on ongoing protests.