The ministry of tourism in Zambia has cancelled this weekend’s show involving South African artists Master KG, of the Jerusalema hit, and Mafikizolo.

The event which was dubbed the "Covid-19 sensitization rally" was being organised by the governing Patriotic Front but had been heavily criticised by Zambians.

Local musicians felt a lot of money was being paid to foreign stars, while Zambians on Twitter argued it would lead to a spike in coronavirus cases.

The ministry of tourism now says no foreign musicians have been cleared to perform in the country this weekend, and are in any case subject to stringent checks.

"All foreign artists are supposed to be cleared at least three months before the event and are expected to pay 20% of performance fees as Withholding Tax Clearance to the Zambia Revenue Authority," tourism ministry spokesperson Sakabilo Kalembwe said in a statement.