Tanzanian singer Zuchu, born Zuhura Othman, endured a rough moment during her performance at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 closing ceremony in Nairobi.

The star was among the top artistes chosen to entertain fans at the final between Morocco and Madagascar at Kasarani Stadium on Saturday, August 30, alongside Kenya’s Savara and Uganda’s Eddy Kenzo.

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Fans Interrupt Zuchu’s Performance

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Zuchu’s set took an unexpected turn when a section of the crowd — mainly Kenyan fans — began booing her and singing the Kenyan national anthem over her performance.

Videos shared online showed the singer struggling to be heard as the anthem echoed around the stadium.

Mozzart Sport Kenya reported: “A section of the Kasarani crowd booed Tanzanian songbird Zuchu as she took the stage ahead of the CHAN final kickoff.”

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The singer wore a vibrant stage outfit featuring a feather-like green top paired with a straw-inspired skirt decorated with floral embellishments. But despite the heckling, she managed to finish her performance.

The incident appeared to stem from the recent Kenya–Tanzania rivalry on social media, which escalated during CHAN 2024 as fans from both nations traded supremacy jabs.

Many Kenyans had vowed online to disrupt her set — and they followed through.

READ MORE: The Rise of the Kenya-Tanzania Rivalry & Why Fans Want Its End on the Pitch

Savara Steals the Show

In contrast, Kenyan artist Savara received rave reviews for his electrifying performance. Fans flooded social media with praise:

“Savara’s performance was lit ? Congratulations to 254,” one fan wrote.

“Our very own ???,” another added.

“Well done King, you did us proud,” read one of the top comments.

Kenyans and Ugandans alike applauded the homegrown star, with many hailing the performance as proof of the country’s growing musical dominance.

Savara//Instagram

Eddy Kenzo Earns Love from Across Borders

Ugandan superstar Eddy Kenzo also wowed the audience, with fans across East Africa showering him with admiration.

“We Kenyans love Ugandans so much. Much respect Eddy Kenzo,” one Kenyan supporter posted.

“Eddy Kenzo is our greatest of all time,” a Ugandan fan wrote proudly.

Others called him “the young Mandela” and praised him for putting Uganda firmly on the African music map.

Eddy Kenzo//Instagram

A Night of Highs and Lows

While Zuchu’s reception highlighted the tensions of regional rivalry, the night ultimately belonged to Savara and Kenzo, who united fans across borders with their powerful performances.