Ugandan boxer and businessman Shakib Cham has sparked debate online after claiming he did not know any Kenyan female artistes apart from Nadia Mukami and Tanasha Donna.
The remarks drew criticism from many Kenyans, who accused him of overlooking the country's vibrant music industry.
Speaking on social media, Shakib initially said he had never heard of any Kenyan female musician.
"I've never heard of any female artist in Kenya. Most of the females are dancers, maybe," he said.
His comments quickly triggered reactions from netizens, who flooded social media with names of successful Kenyan female musicians, insisting he was mistaken.
Following the backlash, Shakib returned online to clarify his remarks, admitting he may have spoken too broadly.
"After telling Kenyans that I have never heard any of their female artistes, they have spent a day roasting me. OK, maybe I only know Nadia Mukami and Tanasha Donna. Only those! So calm down, guys," he wrote.
Despite his clarification, the debate continued, with many social media users arguing that Kenya boasts numerous talented female artistes who have made a mark both locally and across East Africa.
Nadia Mukami is among Kenya's leading contemporary musicians, known for hit songs including Radio Love, Maombi and Wangu. She has won several awards and collaborated with a number of East African artistes.
Tanasha Donna, a singer, songwriter and media personality, is known for songs such as Gere and Ride. She has also collaborated with several regional artistes, including Tanzanian star Diamond Platnumz.
Several social media users expressed their disappointment with Shakib's remarks.
One user, @raychellerowlands, asked, "You just said maybe, so Sanaipei Tande is a joke to you?"
Another, @zuku_pie, wrote, "Pia Akothee nyakadera jaluo oksechi ajulikani yawa... ni ushugu sana."
Meanwhile, @kipng.eno10 posted, "Is Nikita Kering' a joke to you?"
@mpaka_creations also questioned Shakib's popularity, writing, "Who is he? Were it not for Zari and Diamond.