In the wake of the violent military coup in his home country of Niger, guitarist Mdou Moctar and two of his Nigerien bandmates have asked fans for help as they remain in the United States indefinitely. The group have launched a GoFundMe in order to sustain themselves and their families, who still rely on their touring income. “We are so appreciative of our fans and community and their unending support and are so appreciative of whatever you are able to do to help us in this unprecedented and scary time,” reads a statement posted to social media. They’re aiming to raise $25,000, find the page here.
Moctar and company have been touring the United States and Australia for most of this year, including a recent stop at the Pitchfork Music Festival. They were on tour when right-wing forces supporting General Abdourahamane Tchiani overthrew president Mohamed Bazoum on July 26, with the new regime closing the country’s borders. The group’s last scheduled date before heading home was in Central Park on Saturday, July 29. Representatives for Moctar did not have further comment.
