Koffi Olomide Banned From Zambia

Popular rhumba musician Koffi Olomide has been barred from entering Zambia to perform due to a number of criminal allegations against him both here in Zambia and in France.

These include allegations of assaulting a journalist and accusations of sexual assault, kidnap and employing dancers without valid permits in France.

Olomide, who lives in the DRC, has described Zambia as his ‘second home’ and has stated that he would like to peform here before ‘I die.’

The 62 year old singer issues an apology which was broadcast on Zambian radio, however he failed to specifically address the allegations laid against him merely stating that he loves Zambian women.

Olomide, whose real name is Antoine Christophe Agbepa Mumba, was supposed to hold two shows in Zambia this month but the government had warned he will be arrested the moment he steps foot in the country.

On Saturday, the French embassy in Zambia also called for the arrest of Olomide.

France's ambassador to Zambia, Sylvain Berger, threatened to involve Interpol to arrest Olomide, whom he said has not yet been cleared of the allegations against him in France.