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Zimbabwean musician Jah Prayzah denied US visa
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Zimbabwean music superstar Jah Prayzah has been forced to cancel his highly anticipated Independence Day performances in the United States after encountering visa-related complications, dealing a blow to fans who had already made travel and accommodation arrangements.
Jah Prayzah, real name Mukudzeyi Mukombe, was scheduled to perform in Washington, D.C., on July 4 and Dallas, Texas, on July 5 as part of his Ndini Mukudzeyi World Tour. However, in a heartfelt statement released Thursday, the singer said a "technical issue" during the visa application process prevented him and his band from securing timely approvals.
"I write this with a heavy heart," Jah Prayzah shared on Facebook. "We attended our visa appointments earlier this month, but due to a technical issue on our application forms, we couldn't proceed. That meant restarting the process and trying to get new appointment dates, and unfortunately, none were available in time."
The artist dismissed online speculation that the visa complications were politically motivated, noting that the U.S. Embassy had been "supportive" throughout the ordeal.
"The U.S. Consulate was supportive and tried to assist in every possible way they could, but some things are simply beyond anyone's control," he said, while thanking event organisers DJ Nhunzi and Xcelerate for their efforts.
The cancellation comes amid tightened U.S. State Department guidance, which now mandates that consular officers conduct thorough checks, including reviews of applicants' online activity, to verify intent and eligibility for travel.
"The United States must be vigilant during the visa issuance process," the updated policy notes, stressing that all applicants must credibly demonstrate their plans and compliance with visa conditions.
Despite the disruption, Jah Prayzah confirmed that his Canadian tour dates remain intact. He is set to perform in Edmonton on July 11 and Toronto on July 12, offering some relief to North American fans.
"Full refunds will be made for those who bought tickets ahead of time," he said regarding the U.S. shows. "I remain indebted and promise to fulfil this part of the tour in the very near future."
Jah Prayzah's Ndini Mukudzeyi tour has already made stops in Australia, the United Kingdom, and parts of Africa, drawing large crowds and praise for his energetic live performances. Fans are now hoping for a swift resolution to the visa hiccup and the announcement of new U.S. dates soon.
Jah Prayzah, real name Mukudzeyi Mukombe, was scheduled to perform in Washington, D.C., on July 4 and Dallas, Texas, on July 5 as part of his Ndini Mukudzeyi World Tour. However, in a heartfelt statement released Thursday, the singer said a "technical issue" during the visa application process prevented him and his band from securing timely approvals.
"I write this with a heavy heart," Jah Prayzah shared on Facebook. "We attended our visa appointments earlier this month, but due to a technical issue on our application forms, we couldn't proceed. That meant restarting the process and trying to get new appointment dates, and unfortunately, none were available in time."
The artist dismissed online speculation that the visa complications were politically motivated, noting that the U.S. Embassy had been "supportive" throughout the ordeal.
"The U.S. Consulate was supportive and tried to assist in every possible way they could, but some things are simply beyond anyone's control," he said, while thanking event organisers DJ Nhunzi and Xcelerate for their efforts.
"The United States must be vigilant during the visa issuance process," the updated policy notes, stressing that all applicants must credibly demonstrate their plans and compliance with visa conditions.
Despite the disruption, Jah Prayzah confirmed that his Canadian tour dates remain intact. He is set to perform in Edmonton on July 11 and Toronto on July 12, offering some relief to North American fans.
"Full refunds will be made for those who bought tickets ahead of time," he said regarding the U.S. shows. "I remain indebted and promise to fulfil this part of the tour in the very near future."
Jah Prayzah's Ndini Mukudzeyi tour has already made stops in Australia, the United Kingdom, and parts of Africa, drawing large crowds and praise for his energetic live performances. Fans are now hoping for a swift resolution to the visa hiccup and the announcement of new U.S. dates soon.
Source - zimlive
