Kirk Diamond makes history as the first Canadian reggae artist to perform in Botswana, uniting Canada, Jamaica, and Africa through music.
Juno Award-winning reggae artist Kirk Diamond has achieved a groundbreaking milestone, becoming the first Canadian reggae artist to perform in Botswana. His appearance at the Kumnandi Ehkaya Music Festival on September 30, held in celebration of Botswana’s Independence Day, marked not only a personal triumph but a major moment for reggae music and Canada’s Caribbean diaspora.
Diamond performed as part of the Afrofest Toronto Team, representing both Canada and the Caribbean on the African continent. His performance, which blended his signature roots-reggae sound with messages of unity and love, resonated powerfully with the local audience.
“After the show, someone told me, ‘They’ve never felt home while being home thanks to my performance,’” Diamond shared. “That moment truly moved me.”
During his stay in Botswana, Diamond collaborated with local artists Mandla and Chokoma, absorbing the rhythms and creative energy of the country’s growing music scene. He is featured on Mandla’s forthcoming single ‘Somebody,’ set for release in the coming weeks.
“Working with Mandla and Chokoma taught me so much about the music and culture of Botswana,” said Diamond.
For Diamond, who immigrated from Jamaica to Canada and proudly embraces his Rastafarian identity, performing in Africa carried deep spiritual meaning.
“As a Jamaican, as a Rastafarian, being able to return to Africa means more than words could ever express,” he reflected. “For the first 48 hours, I was overwhelmed—I could hardly speak, just taking it all in.”
Although he made this trip solo, Diamond has already been invited back to perform again and hopes to bring his full band, The Movement of Ahryel, on future tours.
“The goal is to do two or three other countries on the continent and share this experience with my whole team,” he said. “I also want Africa to experience everything The Movement has to offer.”
Kirk Diamond’s performance in Botswana highlights his mission to use reggae as a bridge between cultures and continents, uniting people through music and the enduring message of peace and resistance that defines the genre.
With this historic appearance, Diamond has expanded his international reach while reaffirming reggae’s global roots — from Jamaica to Canada to Africa.
