Veteran radio host Alex Mwakideu has expressed disappointment after some Kenyan fans disrupted Tanzanian singer Zuchu’s performance during the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) closing ceremony. The incident occurred on August 30 at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani Stadium, just before the final match between Morocco and Madagascar.

During her performance, some fans interrupted by singing the Kenyan national anthem. Observers suggested this was a protest linked to the ongoing rivalry between Kenya and Tanzania.

Mwakideu addressed the disruption on his morning radio show, urging Kenyans to respect artists of all nationalities. “Zuchu is singing there, you are singing the national anthem. What does it mean? I didn’t like it. I didn’t like the way you were treating Zuchu. Respect for Kenyans. Whether you are Tanzanian, Ugandan, Kenyan, respect,” he said.

He emphasized that Zuchu’s invitation was based on research showing that Tanzanian artists rank among the most watched by Kenyans. “You said you wanted only Kenyans in the final, but when you look at YouTube views, you’ll see Tanzanians dominate. The top 10 artists watched by Kenyans are Tanzanians,” Mwakideu explained. He added that local organizers acted according to audience preferences. “Local organisers looked at who Kenyans prefer, checked YouTube research, and saw that Kenyans enjoy Bongo music, so they brought Zuchu. So why sing the national anthem?”

Mwakideu called on fans to show respect for all performers, regardless of nationality. He highlighted that Tanzanian, Ugandan, and Kenyan artists all deserve recognition and courtesy.

Zuchu, born Zuhuru Othman, also addressed circulating rumors that she refused to collaborate with Kenyan musicians. She clarified in a Kiss FM interview that the reports were false and misrepresented her stance. She said she values her Kenyan fanbase and respects their support.

The performance disruption and related rumors sparked significant discussion on social media, drawing attention to the importance of respecting artists and separating music from political or national rivalries.