Chiki Kuruka, manager and wife of singer Bien-Aimé Baraza, has taken to social media to call out ‘outdated’ African leadership that has stunted the growth of local music.
The talent manager contrasts Africa’s treatment of artists with the Caribbean, citing Barbados as a gold standard for artist elevation.
In a scathing Instagram post shared on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, Bien’s wife didn’t hold back, accusing African leaders of being “stuck in an old mindset” that prioritises international stars over the geniuses born on African soil.
“Our leaders are still stuck in an old mindset of rolling out the red carpet for people coming from outside, instead of collaborating with talent that stems from our own countries,” Chiki wrote, sparking an immediate firestorm of debate online.
Chiki Kuruka pointed to the Caribbean as a blueprint for success, specifically highlighting how leaders in nations like Barbados actively champion their artists.
“That is why a small island nation like Barbados can make such strides,” she remarked, likely referencing the global dominance of stars like Rihanna and soca king Machel Montano.
“The person at the top understands the value of local talent.”
She lamented that while African musicians often act as the continent’s biggest cultural ambassadors, they are frequently treated as “mere entertainers” rather than vital contributors to national development and tourism.
Beyond cultural pride, Chiki argues there is a massive economic cost to this neglect. She noted that leaders who fail to uplift local talent are effectively sabotaging their own countries’ “global stories.”
“Our musicians are our biggest export, and when they succeed, our nations succeed,” she insisted.
“Africa’s creative industry has untapped potential that could shine globally if given the right attention.”
This isn’t just a rant; it’s a demand for reform.
Chiki Kuruka urged leaders to treat musicians as partners in national identity. She called for specific policies and platforms designed to empower artists, rather than letting them struggle for recognition while foreign acts take the spotlight and the local revenue.
“It’s time to recognise the power of our own talent,” she concluded.
“Give our artists the platforms and support they deserve.”
As African music continues to dominate global charts through the “Afrobeats” wave, Kuruka’s message serves as a stark reminder that while the world is listening, the leaders at home might still be tuned to a different station.
