Cassper Nyovest looks set to fill up Orlando Stadium as MTN comes on board

Cassper Nyovest had initially announced that it would cost him R25 million to fill up Orlando Stadium - a multi-purpose venue in Soweto with a capacity of 40 000 people.

No South African artist has sold out a stadium before but with MTN on board Cassper looks set to make history again.

Real name Refiloe Phoolo, Cassper became the first local hip hop artist to fill up the 20 000-seat Ticketpro Dome last year. Although he later revealed that he had lost close to R3.2 million (about $222 000) staging the event, the achievement was widely celebrated in South Africa, making him one of the most iconic acts in the country.

Internet reports this week suggested that MTN will be the headline sponsor of the Orlando event. It is understood, however, that MTN is not willing to disclose how much they will spend towards the concert.

Cassper confirmed the deal on Twitter this week. “It's not every day a corporate company gets behind the dream of an African black child and genuinely help him/her. Ayeye MTN Ayeye,” he said.

This is not the first time MTN has collaborated with the rapper. On 22 October last year, Nyovest signed a record ‘six-figure’ endorsement deal with MTN to become the company’s new brand ambassador.

Cassper started fundraising for the Orlando concert last year, partly using social media to reach out to potential funders.

Tickets are available from Computicket with prices ranging from R300 for general admission to R450 for access to the golden circle.