Zuchu banned in Zanzibar

Tanzania’s prominent musician, Zuchu, faces a six-month performance ban in Zanzibar following a recent show deemed inappropriate. Her performance on Kendwa Island last month included sexually explicit language and gestures, leading to the Zanzibar arts council’s decision, citing violations of local customs, traditions, and culture. Additionally, Zuchu was fined approximately $390 (£306) for performing without proper registration with the council, as reported by media outlets. In response, Zuchu, also known as Zuhura Othman Soud, issued an apology via an Instagram video, clarifying her intention was entertainment and not to mislead.

Zanzibar, a popular holiday destination in Tanzania, faces social conservatism, with objections from some residents after video clips of Zuchu’s performance circulated on social media. Despite this, the 30-year-old musician has made significant achievements, becoming the first female artist in East Africa to amass one million YouTube subscribers within a year and only the fifth female artist on the continent to surpass 500 million YouTube views, as stated by her label, WCB Wasafi.

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