International Reggae Artist Richie Spice's visit and performance within the Lakeside city is expected to boost tourism.
Spice is expected to perform at Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo on Sunday evening.
The artist landed in Kisumu on Sunday morning at the Kisumu International Airport.
He was received by Roots Party leader George Wajackoya, Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathew Owili, First lady Dorothy Nyong’o, Kajulu ward MCA Benson Adega accompanied by his other colleagues amongst other dignitaries.
From the airport, the dancehall artist was given VIP treatment then went for a courtesy call at the Governor's office for a brief meeting before heading to Mamboleo grounds where he planted a tree.
Spice is passionate about nature.
On the way to the concert venue, locals lined up along the Kisumu-Kakamega road to catch a glimpse of the star as he waved at them from his vehicle.
Spice was also taken for a tour in Lake Victoria where he indulged in fish delicacy.
During a press briefing, Spice thanked the entire team who received him ahead of the concert including the media.
He talked of love and respect being an important virtue adding that he looks forward to meeting his fans at the concert.
Deputy Governor Owili noted that they they banked on the artiste's performance to attract tourists.
Owili said the concert was timely as the county moves to market Kisumu as a tourist destination.
"The world will see Kisumu in the eyes of Richie Spice and just his presence within the lakeside city has caught the attention across."
Roots Party leader Wajackoyah noted that the artist's visit was critical adding that Reggae music was rich in meaning and culture.
He said the country stands to benefit from the teachings.
Wajakoyah reiterated his call to legalise marijuana saying the country stands to reap huge economic benefits from the crop.
"I want to urge our people out there and across to turn up in large numbers at the Mamboleo Show Ground for the concert. "
At the Mamboleo Show Ground, preparations had been finalised with revelers waiting outside the venue in anticipation for the show after gates opened at 4pm.
Security officers have been deployed at the ground with revelers guaranteed of their safety.
Tickets were being sold at the gate. Regular tickets were being sold at Sh500 while VIP tickets at Sh2000.
The tourism department has been running a Kisumu MyPride campaign as a major platform to aggressively market tourism initiatives and position Kisumu as a tourism destination and an investment hub.
