Hassan Magulumali
The Zanzibar Arts, Census, Film, and Culture Council (BASSFU) has enforced a ban on Bongo Flava artist Zuchu, prohibiting her from partaking in any artistic activities within the Islands. Additionally, Zanzibar radio and television stations are barred from playing her songs for a six-month period.
During a press conference on March 5, 2024, the council’s secretary-general, Omar Abdalla Adam, declared the six-month ban on Zuchu, effective immediately.
Citing the responsibility to preserve Zanzibar’s customs and culture, Adam explained that the decision was prompted by Zuchu’s alleged habit of performing songs deemed lacking in morals and not aligned with community principles.
Despite not being registered in Zanzibar, Zuchu has reportedly been engaging in artistic endeavors without acquiring the necessary permissions.
The ban follows an incident on February 24, 2024, during Zuchu’s performance at Fullmoon Kendwa night, where her songs, statements, and gestures were deemed to contradict Zanzibar’s moral standards.
In addition to the ban, Zuchu has been fined Tsh. 1,000,000 by the Council. She is also mandated to issue a written apology, committing to refrain from similar offenses during the ban period. Failure to comply will lead to an extension of the ban duration without a specified end date.
