Promotion around the tournament continues to gain momentum, with BAL organizers announcing that the two artists will entertain fans during the halftime shows of selected games.
Bien-Aimé Baraza is expected to perform on May 22, 2026, while Abigail Chams will take the stage during the game scheduled for May 30, 2026.
Bien is widely recognized as one of East Africa’s most influential artists. He rose to fame as a founding member of the award-winning Kenyan band Sauti Sol alongside Savara Mudigi, Polycarp Otieno, and Willis Chimano in 2005.
Born in Nairobi on December 28, 1987, Bien studied at Upper Hill High School, where he met his future Sauti Sol bandmates. He later pursued Journalism and Media Studies at the United States International University (USIU).
Sauti Sol became one of Africa’s most celebrated music groups through hit songs such as “Sura Yako,” “Kuliko Jana,” “Suzanna,” “Melanin” featuring Patoranking, and “Lazizi.” The group won several prestigious awards, including MTV Africa Music Awards nominations and BET Awards recognition, cementing their status among Africa’s biggest music acts.
In 2021, the members of Sauti Sol announced a temporary break from group activities to focus on solo careers. Bien then launched his individual career, releasing songs including “Inauma,” “Too Easy,” and “Bald Men Anthem.”
The Kenyan star is widely praised for his vocal ability, meaningful songwriting, and social commentary through music. He is also known for his signature bald look, which has become one of his trademarks.
Meanwhile, Abigail Chams is considered one of the fastest-rising female artists in Africa. The Tanzanian singer has captured audiences with a unique blend of Pop, Afrobeat, and dance music.
Abigail Chams showed extraordinary musical talent from an early age. She began learning piano at the age of five, violin at eight, and later mastered guitar and drums at nine before eventually studying the flute as well.
The singer has previously stated that her early musical education helped her develop the ability to balance multiple skills at once, something she considers essential to her artistic growth.
Abigail Chams has continued gaining international recognition and praise for the empowering messages in her music. Her latest song, “Your Loss,” has particularly attracted attention for promoting self-confidence and self-worth.
Beyond music, the singer has also spoken openly about mental health challenges. She once revealed that she personally struggled with depression and anxiety, experiences that inspired her to advocate for safe spaces where young women can openly discuss mental health issues.
Bien-Aimé Baraza, confirmed for BAL entertainment in Rwanda
Kigali set to host Abigail Chams during BAL 2026