Sinokubonga Nkala
International music sensation Chris Brown is set to electrify fans in South Africa this weekend with a highly anticipated performance at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg.
Since the news broke in September that the superstar would be performing in South Africa on December 14 and 15, the streets have been buzzing from excitement and there has been some backlash.
The concert at FNB Stadium, located in Nasrec, south of Johannesburg, has raised safety concerns among concertgoers, particularly regarding the surrounding area.
In response to these concerns, organisers Big Concerts assured fans security measures would be enhanced. Addressing a query on whether security would be beefed up both inside the stadium and in its vicinity, they reaffirmed that safety remains a “top priority”.
“Hi there! We absolutely have. Your safety is always our top priority. Kindly note we’ve taken many precautions to ensure a safe and secure experience for all patrons,” read the comment.
“The venue is fully equipped with visible security throughout the premises, and we’ve added extra lighting to illuminate the outer stadium areas. We’re committed to providing a high level of safety and security for all attendees.”
The Johannesburg stadium is no stranger to hosting international events. In 2018, the ‘Global Citizen Festival: Mandela’ drew thousands of people to witness global and local artistes perform at the stadium but ended on a bitter note for some after getting robbed at a nearby petrol station while awaiting transportation.
In an email to concert goers, Big Concerts also mentioned there would be a security presence in place within the FNB Stadium with the SA Police Service, parking security, pedestrian security and crime prevention marshals on duty monitoring everyone coming into the precinct.
Big Concerts advised concert goers to plan their journeys and allow for extra travel time, arrive early to avoid queues, and traffic congestion. When travelling to the venue people have the following options available; Park-and-Ride, the Gautrain, there is available parking or can use E-hailing and Drop-and-Go. A temporary Park-and-Ride station will be set up within a short walking distance from the stadium entrance.
Staff and security will be deployed to assist passengers on arrival and departure.
Gates to the concert will open at 4pm and the supporting artiste, which is yet to be revealed, will be on stage at 7pm and Chris Brown will take to the stage at 8pm. – IOL Entertainment
Siphakeme .Mnindwa
