Diamond Platnumz to replace Tekno at Zambian festival

The Nigerian pop act took ill and has had to seek treatment in the US. He has apologised for his inability to put in a performance at the event.

“I know I have disappointed a whole lot of promoters and my fans worldwide!” Tekno wrote online. “I have been sick for over a month and it has worsened. I want to sincerely apologise for the inconvenience this may cause; all the show refunds and any other loss. I’m not taking any bookings right now as am off to America for proper treatment.”

The organiser of the event, Zambian Breweries, has now announced Tanzanian award-winning artist Diamond Platnumz as Tekno’s replacement. “What would the Mosi Day of Thunder be without thunderous performances?!" Zambian Breweries said on its Facebook page. "We’ve got you covered and are very excited to announce that Diamond Platnumz is confirmed to perform next week [this Saturday] as our international act! Are you ready to thunder? #MosiDayofThunder.”

The replacement, while not ideal for expectant Tekno fans, is perhaps fitting as Diamond Platnumz has a few ties to Nigeria, having made several songs with Tekno’s countrymen including Flavour, P-Square and Davido. The Tanzanian artist also received his All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) trophies in Lagos, Nigeria, putting in a penultimate performance at the 2015 event where he was the ceremony’s big winner.

Speaking about the new headliner, the marketing head of Zambian Breweries, Nomonde Donsa, said: “All is set for event – it’s going to be thunderous. It is official: Diamond Platnumz is coming for this year’s Mosi Day of Thunder, joining with our very special local artists.”

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