Côte d’Ivoire : Controversy over ticket prices for Lokua Kanza concert

Lokua Kanza is giving a live dinner concert this Friday, December 29, 2023, starting at 7 :00 PM (UTC) in Assinie, Côte d’Ivoire. The commotion surrounding this announcement is not related to the performance but rather to the exorbitant price of admission tickets. On the cards and posters announcing the event, prices range from 500.000 to 850.000 CFA francs. In other words, the amount indicates that this is a concert that is not affordable for the average person.

The ticket prices may raise eyebrows, but it is important to note that these tickets come with certain privileges. For example, those who can afford nearly 1 million will have the VIP ticket, which includes 2 alcoholic or non-alcoholic cocktails in addition to a meal (1 appetizer – 1 main course – 1 dessert). That’s not all. They will also be entitled to 2 bottles of Billecart Salmon champagne or 2 bottles of alcohol-free Prosecco, and Martin Soft Offered (coffee or lemongrass and still water).

As for the standard ticket, which costs 500.000 CFA francs, people will receive an alcoholic or non-alcoholic cocktail in addition to a meal (1 appetizer – 1 main course – 1 dessert). They will also be entitled to a bottle of Billecart Salmon champagne or 1 bottle of alcohol-free Prosecco, and Martin Soft Offered (coffee or lemongrass and still water).

Despite these details, many Ivorians find the cost exorbitant and have not hesitated to express their opinions on social media. The globally renowned Congolese singer addressed these comments.

« I don’t want people to be left with the idea that ‘it’s too expensive.’ There are special, one-time events », he noted.

« Lokua Kanza is not the artist for the rich. Throughout my career, I have always stayed close to the public, and I will continue to do so. There are special evenings like this one, where you are invited, and it might be a bit expensive, I have to admit. However, there are people who can afford it. It’s circumstantial, it has nothing to do with saying ‘Lokua is becoming too expensive.’ I am an artist for everyone. After all, it’s an entire program, including the menu, the setting, and the content of the show », the musician defended himself.

Justine