Zanzibar fines Zuchu Ksh.1 million, suspends her for 6 months after controversial concert

The Zanzibar Arts, Census, Film, and Cultural Council (BASSFU) took the decision after deeming certain aspects of her performance inappropriate for Zanzibar's cultural norms.

A week after the show, videos of Zuchu's performance circulated online, sparking concern among some Zanzibari residents.

Soon after, BASSFU, responsible for upholding the island's cultural traditions, launched an investigation and subsequently announced the suspension.

BASSFU's executive secretary, Omar Abdalla Adam, emphasized the council's commitment to protecting Zanzibar's cultural identity. "The council has the responsibility to oversee the customs, traditions, and culture of Zanzibar," he stated.

"Therefore, we are officially suspending Zuchu from engaging in any artistic activities in Zanzibar for six months, effective today, March 5, 2024." 

Further investigation revealed that Zuchu had not registered with BASSFU and lacked the necessary permits to perform in Zanzibar. 

As a consequence, she has been fined Ksh.1 million and is required to submit a written apology, guaranteeing adherence to cultural norms in future performances. 

As a result, Zuchu's label, WCB, issued her apology (both in written and video format) on their official Instagram page, where she stated that her actions were intended for entertainment purposes and not meant to disrespect anyone.

The statement said: "Kwa Wapenzi wetu wa Sanaa, napenda kutumia fursa hii kuwaomba radhi kutokana na maneno niliyoyatumia kwenye kibwagizo ambacho kilileta taharuki kwenye tamasha la Full Moon Party - Kendwa Beach Zanzibar hivi karibuni".

"Najua kuwa maneno yameleta sintofahamu kwa wengi wenu na kuleta maana hasi kwa jamii na mashabiki zangu kiujumla.

"Nia yangu ilikuwa kuleta burudani njema na furaha kwa mashabiki wangu wote. Si lengo langu kupotosha, kumomonyoa maadili au kuleta taharuki kwa yeyote.

"Ninachukua ahadi leo kufanya kazi na timu yangu ili kuhakikisha matukio kama hayo hayatokei tena kwenye matamasha yajayo.  Nawaomba radhi tena kwa jamii na Baraza la Sanaa (BASATA) ambao ndio walezi wangu."

In a move promoting reconciliation, National Arts Council (Basata) shared a photo on their official page showing Zuchu receiving a copy of the "Mwongozo wa Kazi za Sanaa" (The Code of Ethics in the Arts).