Tanzanian Singer’s Hit Song Sparks Excitement in Kenya
Christina Shusho, renowned as one of East Africa’s foremost gospel musicians, recently stirred up a buzz in Kenya by releasing a teaser for her upcoming song titled “Zakayo.” Sung in Swahili, the teaser recounts the story of Zakayo, described as the chief tax collector and a wealthy individual who seeks to catch a glimpse of Jesus to discern his character.
The song’s teaser sparked playful speculation among some Kenyans, particularly given Shusho’s sizable fanbase in the country. Some amusingly pondered whether the song might be a veiled reference to Kenya’s President William Ruto. In Kenya, Ruto has a tongue-in-cheek association with the biblical figure Zacchaeus, known as Zakayo in Swahili. In the Bible, Zacchaeus is depicted as a tax collector notorious for his greed, who climbs a tree to see Jesus.
This humorous association stems from Ruto’s reputation for implementing new and increased tax policies since assuming the presidency in August 2022. These actions have garnered criticism and led to widespread discontent among Kenyans, who feel that Ruto has deviated from his campaign promise to advocate for the interests of “hustlers,” or those facing financial challenges.
The moniker “Zakayo” has thus become a playful yet pointed symbol of the public’s disillusionment with Ruto’s policies and leadership style. It reflects the perception that, like the biblical Zakayo, Ruto is perceived as prioritizing financial gain and political interests over the welfare of ordinary citizens.
In this light, Shusho’s song teaser takes on added significance, serving as a cultural commentary on the socio-political landscape in Kenya. It highlights how music and popular culture can provide a platform for expressing societal sentiments and engaging in dialogue about contemporary issues, even in a lighthearted manner.
Ultimately, the playful speculation surrounding “Zakayo” underscores the enduring impact of music as a means of reflection, critique, and commentary on the realities of everyday life, including the complexities of politics and governance.
