The anticipation surrounding the closing ceremony of the CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 has been met with mixed reactions, particularly after Kenyan artist Willy Paul raised concerns over the choice of performers for the event. The three headliners announced for the ceremony – Zuchu from Tanzania, Savara of Sauti Soul, and Eddy Kenzo from Uganda – have sparked debate across the region, with some local fans and artists questioning why more homegrown talent wasn’t featured to represent Kenya on the prestigious stage.
Scheduled for tomorrow at Kasarani Stadium, the CHAN 2024 closing ceremony promises to be a high-energy celebration, marking the culmination of the continental football tournament. The star-studded lineup, however, has left some Kenyan fans and artists dissatisfied, with Willy Paul voicing his concerns on social media. In a series of posts, Willy Paul questioned the selection process, expressing his belief that the event should spotlight Kenyan talent, especially given the tournament's significance for the host nation.
Willy Paul, a prominent figure in the Kenyan music industry, known for his chart-topping hits and outspoken views, took to his social media platforms to express his disappointment. The artist emphasized that while he respects the musical prowess of Zuchu, Savara, and Eddy Kenzo, he feels that the Kenyan music scene deserves a larger presence at such a pivotal moment for the country.
"The fact that we are hosting this prestigious tournament and yet we have artists from outside the country headlining the closing ceremony doesn’t sit right with me," Willy Paul wrote. "Kenya is rich in talent, and this was an opportunity to showcase our local artists to the continent."
Willy Paul also hinted at how local artists could have contributed to elevating the national pride of Kenyans, especially as the tournament represents more than just football; it's a celebration of Kenyan culture and spirit. His comments have sparked a larger conversation about the role of local talent in national events and the importance of supporting homegrown artists in key moments.
The selection of international artists for such a high-profile event has raised eyebrows, as some Kenyan entertainment insiders feel it may undermine local talent. In the past, Kenya has often used national events, especially sports tournaments, as a platform to elevate local musicians.
While Zuchu and Eddy Kenzo are widely recognized in East Africa, their inclusion in the event has been seen by some as a missed opportunity for Kenyan artists to shine on a continental stage. Savara, a member of the iconic Kenyan music group Sauti Soul, is the lone Kenyan representative in the lineup, but some critics argue that the event should have been an entirely Kenyan affair to celebrate the nation's rich and diverse music scene.
Many fans have voiced their support for the inclusion of other Kenyan stars, citing the impressive musical lineup of artists who could easily fill the stage at the CHAN 2024 closing ceremony. Some of the artists suggested include Sauti Soul, one of Africa's most successful music groups, known for their fusion of Afro-pop, soul, and reggae. Their performance at the closing ceremony would undoubtedly resonate with the audience, combining national pride and international appeal.
Otile Brown, known for his smooth Afropop and R&B tunes, has also been a major force in the Kenyan music scene in recent years. His love songs and catchy beats have earned him a strong fan base, and his stage presence would surely have added to the energy of the event. Tanasha Donna, with her growing reputation as one of Kenya’s top female artists, could have brought a fresh and vibrant flavor to the ceremony. Her ability to connect with audiences both in Kenya and across East Africa would have made her a natural fit.
Another artist who could have contributed to the success of the event is Nviiri The Storyteller, a member of the fast-rising Sol Generation. His soulful melodies and powerful vocals have captivated fans, and his appearance at the closing ceremony could have been a highlight of the evening.
Music and football have long been intertwined in African culture, with songs often becoming the soundtrack to major sporting events. Many feel that the inclusion of Kenyan talent in the CHAN 2024 closing ceremony would not only have served to celebrate the host country’s musical diversity but also empowered local artists by offering them a global platform.
Kenya’s music scene, which has produced artists like Victoria Kimani, Khaligraph Jones, and Nyashinski, continues to grow in influence, with fans demanding more recognition for homegrown acts.
The conversation has gained traction on social media platforms, with fans showing their opinions. Some Kenyans are echoing Willy Paul’s sentiment, voicing their desire to see local artists take center stage at an event hosted on Kenyan soil.
"I would love to see more local talent being featured. It’s time we put Kenyan music at the forefront," one fan commented on Twitter.
Others, however, argue that bringing international artists like Zuchu and Eddy Kenzo to perform at a major event such as CHAN adds to the pan-African unity and demonstrates the diversity of African music.
The selection of Zuchu, Savara, and Eddy Kenzo to headline the CHAN 2024 closing ceremony has sparked important discussions about the representation of Kenyan talent on the continental stage. While these artists have earned their place as top performers in East Africa, many believe it is essential for Kenya to prioritize its own musicians during key national events.
As the final match approaches, all eyes will be on Kasarani, not just for the football action, but also for the closing ceremony that promises to be a celebration of African culture. Whether or not local artists will see more recognition in the future, one thing is clear – the conversation about promoting Kenyan music on the global stage is far from over.
