** Flight to the house of Sidiki Diabaté: reflections on the security of artists on tour and the economic challenges of Malian music **
During the night of February 8 to 9, 2024, the Malian music scene was shaken by a tragic event: Sidiki Diabaté, an emblematic figure of the Kora and ambassador of Malian culture abroad, was the victim of a flight by a Group of armed robbers with his sister Djelika Diabaté, also her manager. While he was performing on stage at La Défense Arena, these criminals, well informed of the circumstances, entered the family home to steal a significant amount of 190,000 euros, a sum resulting from the evening revenues.
### Malian music: between influence and risks
The world of Malian music, although rich and emblematic, is faced with security issues that are becoming more and more worrying as artists gain in international notoriety. Sidiki Diabaté, especially known for his virtuosity at Kora, is not the only one in this situation. Looking at other African artists on tour in Europe and the United States, there is a recurring phenomenon: the rise in targeted crime against musicians, often due to their thrilling successes.
The financial precariousness of certain artists, even if they enjoy a reputation, imposes them a need for prudence, especially in terms of fund management. As several artist career management experts explain, the transition between success on stage and personal security is delicate and often overlooked. The incident at Sidiki Diabaté raises questions about how artists should better protect themselves and their property of value.
### Importance of prevention and training
A reflection is essential on the security structures available to artists, who tend to be insufficient. Private security companies could play a decisive role, in particular by providing qualified agents during events and in the tour phase. Likewise, training on personal security and goods management could be integrated into the support programs for artists. The Sidiki Diabaté case reveals the crucial importance of an armed security network, not only inside concert halls, but also in the privacy of artists.
### A rise in crime specific to artists
From a statistical point of view, crime targeting musicians is not to be taken lightly. According to studies carried out on cultural crime, there is a 30 % increase in armed flights aimed at artists in several major European cities, including Paris. This alarming trend underlines the need for a proactive strategy not only to protect artists, but also to create an environment conducive to the promotion of culture and music.
### Conclusion: A call for mobilization
The tragic incident that struck Sidiki Diabaté is not an isolated event but an appeal for action for the entire musical ecosystem. Governments, companies and artists must work together to develop safety and protection methods adapted to the reality of contemporary music. The influence of artists like Sidiki Diabaté should not be tarnished by acts of violence. On the contrary, their talent should be celebrated and protected, while offering a platform to make the voice of Malian culture heard to an international audience.
The safety of artists is everyone’s business, and it is time to erect a solid barrier against insecurity in order to preserve the musical and cultural richness that figures like Sidiki Diabaté bring to the world.