The Zanzibar Arts, Census, Film and Cultural Council (BASSFU) has banned Tanzanian popstar Zuchu from participating in any artistic activities on the archipelago for six months for alleged breach of the organisation’s code.
This follows a public uproar over videos circulating online showing the bongo flava artist using what could be interpreted as lewd language during a performance on 24 February.
Some cultural critics say the ban is indicative of the tightrope artists have to walk when performing in Zanzibar, a historic location boasting rich music traditions but largely operating under conservative Islamic laws.
BASSFU executive secretary Omar Abdalla Adam said the council was compelled to take action “to preserve Zanzibar’s cultural identity.”
“The council has the responsibility to oversee the customs, traditions and culture of Zanzibar,” local media quoted him as saying. “Following an investigation, it was revealed that Zuchu had not registered with the National Arts Council (BASATA), nor had she obtained the necessary permits for her performance in Zanzibar. As a result, along with the suspension effective 5 March, [the artist] has been fined Tsh1m [about $390] and is required to issue a written apology, promising to adhere to cultural norms in future performances.”
Reacting to the development, Zuchu issued an apology through her label Wasafi Classic Baby on social media, saying “her actions were purely intended for entertainment and not meant to disrespect Zanzibar’s culture or its people.”
“I would like to take this opportunity to apologise for the words I used in the slogan that caused alarm at the recent Full Moon Party at Kendwa Beach, Zanzibar,” she said. “I acknowledge that these words have caused confusion for many of you and have had a negative impact on my community and fans as a whole.
Zuchu also shared a picture of her receiving a copy of the council’s publication titled ‘Mwongozo wa Kazi za Sanaa’ (Code of Ethics in the Arts) during a visit to BASATA’s offices.
She also pledged to work closely with her team to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. “My intention was to bring good entertainment and joy to all my fans. It is not my aim to mislead, undermine values or cause distress to anyone. Today, I commit to working with my team to ensure that incidents like these do not occur in future events. I apologise to the community and BASATA, who are my regulators,” Zuchu said.
