Tanzanian Bongo Flava artist Zuchu is set to perform at the closing ceremony of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) final in Kenya despite vowing to never work with Kenyan artists.
The musician, with popular hit songs including Sukari, will headline the ceremony at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani together with Kenyan artiste Savara and Uganda's Eddy Kenzo.
She took to social media to share her excitement about being part of the entertainment line-up as the curtain came down on the 30-day tournament, which was co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
“I’m so thrilled to announce that I will be headlining the African Champions League final this year. #CHAN2025 happening in Nairobi at Kasarani Stadium on August 30, 2025,” Zuchu wrote in her announcement.
This announcement comes just two months after Zuchu vowed never to collaborate with Kenyan artists again, citing what she perceived as Kenya’s disrespect towards Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu.
Zuchu also accused Kenyans of humiliating President Suluhu at a time when tensions between the two countries were running high.
“I cannot collaborate with Kenyan artists because they have no respect at all, they have insulted our President and mocked her very badly. They must apologize so we can go our separate ways, but right now I absolutely refuse!” she stated.
Her comments came after Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi and his Ugandan counterpart Agather Atuhaire accused Suluhu of orchestrating their three-day ordeal at the hands of Tanzanian authorities.
The two had gone to attend the trial of Tanzanian Opposition leader Tindu Lissu but allegedly got abducted during their time there.
Zuchu’s comments attracted backlash from Kenyans, who form part of her wide fanbase, with some calling for the boycotting of her music and her ban from the country.
CHAN Final
In the final, Morocco would be seeking a record-extending third CHAN title, while the island nation of Madagascar would be aiming to cap off its fairytale run by winning a first-ever championship.
Morocco reached the final after beating Senegal 5-3 in post-match penalties in the semi-finals. Before that, they had defeated Tanzania, one of the co-hosts, by a goal to nil in the quarters. The North African nation had sealed its spot in the quarters by securing a top-two finish in the group stage, finishing second to Kenya in Group A.
On the other hand, Madagascar finished second to Tanzania in Group B to seal their spot in the quarter-finals. It later beat Kenya 4-3 in post-match penalties in heart-breaking fashion in the quarters to seal their spot in the semis. The Barea later booked their spot in the finals by beating Sudan one-nil deep into extra time at the Benjamin Mkapa stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
