William Mahfood (left), chairman of Wisynco Group, lymes with Buju Banton at his Kingston studio recently. —

BOOM Energy Drink is the title sponsor for the first concert of Buju Banton’s Long Walk to Freedom Tour, scheduled for National Stadium in St Andrew on March 16, 2019.

William Mahfood, Wisynco Group chairman, explained his company’s association with the event.

“When we look at the importance of reggae music in the Jamaican culture, there have been a few artistes over the course of our history of music who have had a material impact, and in so many ways. The reggae icon Buju Banton is definitely one of those artistes. In our first meeting upon his arrival, we shared similar passions for improving the lives of our Jamaican people, our culture, and reggae music. I knew immediately that it was important as a Jamaican company that sells predominately Jamaican products, that we had a vital role to play to help elevate his platform — to unlock the true opportunity, to inspire Jamaican youth,” said Mahfood.

“Wisynco has a set of core values that speak to CHIRP. This stands for compassion, humility, integrity, respect, and passion. As a company, it’s through our belief in compassion and reciprocity, centered on core Christian principles, which inspire us to lead by example and encourage others to have compassion for our fellow Jamaican people.”

The evening will also be supported through an associate sponsorship with the Tru-Juice and WATA brands.

“As the number one energy drink in Jamaica, BOOM knows what it takes to be the best. We are committed to providing the highest-quality products and experiences that are accessible to all Jamaicans, no matter their status. This is perfectly aligned with how we view Buju’s music and stage presence, second to none, we know that this will be delivered to all of his fans on the night of March 16,” said Tamara Ward, senior marketing and PR manager.

Buju Banton (given name Mark Myrie) was arrested on cocaine charges in 2009 and given a mandatory 10-year sentence in 2011. He was however, deported to Jamaica on December 7, 2018.

Days after his conviction, Buju Banton won a Grammy Award for his album Before Dawn.

Similar concerts are planned for The Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, and St Kitts.

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