Tanzanian gospel sensation Christiana Shusho has set the record straight regarding her latest track, “Zakayo,” which stirred significant interest and speculation in Kenya two months ago.
Contrary to popular belief, Shusho clarified that the song was not inspired by recent events in Kenya but rather drawn from a Biblical narrative.
Before the official release of “Zakayo,” Shusho teased the song, sparking a frenzy on Kenyan social media. Many Kenyans quickly associated the track’s title with President William Ruto, who had been nicknamed “Zakayo” by some due to his tax policies.
The song’s release coincided with a period of intense public protests in Kenya against the Finance Bill 2024, which proposed significant tax hikes.
The bill was later withdrawn after widespread public outcry and demonstrations, leading many to speculate that Shusho’s song was a commentary on the situation.
However, Shusho debunked these assumptions, explaining that the inspiration for “Zakayo” came directly from the Bible and had nothing to do with Kenyan politics.
The song, named after Zacchaeus, a wealthy chief tax collector from the Bible, was written long before its release. It was part of a collection of 25 songs she had prepared for future projects.
“Not at all, the song had nothing to do with Kenya. The inspiration to write the song wasn’t from Kenya but the Bible. I had written the song a long time ago. It was just a coincidence that when I released ‘Zakayo,’ for some reason it united Kenyans at that particular moment and time. It wasn’t directed at anybody, and I meant no harm,” Shusho stated.
Shusho emphasized that the timing of the song’s release was purely coincidental and was not intended to comment on or influence Kenyan events.
In addition to discussing the song, Shusho revealed that she is considering establishing a home in Kenya.
With her frequent visits to the country for concerts and other engagements, the gospel star has developed a deep affection for Kenya, often feeling warmly welcomed by her fans.
“Every time I am in Kenya, I feel welcomed, I feel at home,” Shusho remarked, adding that she is seriously contemplating setting up a permanent residence in the country.
