Philanthropic Kenyan advocate George Kithi has dismissed claims that he has already booked celebrated Tanzanian songstress Zuchu for the Kilifi County 2025 New Year Crossover Festival, following growing public criticism on social media.
Kithi firmly clarified that no artist has been confirmed for the highly anticipated annual event, noting that his team is still deliberating on the potential lineup.
Speaking during a phone interview with Pwani FM on Friday, December 5, the lawyer emphasised that he is not part of the committee responsible for deciding which artists will headline the festival.
He acknowledged widespread speculation suggesting that Zuchu had been selected as the main act, but insisted the rumours were unfounded and premature.
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“Whether Zuchu will be brought or not, I don’t know. That is not in my powers. I think there have been those speculations, but personally I am yet to decide who we’ll bring,” Kithi said when pressed by a Pwani FM presenter to confirm the reports.
Public Outcry Over Booking Foreign Artists
The recent wave of backlash comes after an online uproar in which members of the public accused Kithi of overlooking local musicians and prioritising international performers, particularly from Tanzania.
For nearly a week, residents from Kilifi and Mombasa have taken to social media urging Kithi to focus on uplifting homegrown talent instead of spending significant amounts on foreign acts.
Many argued that investing in local creatives not only boosts the regional entertainment industry but also empowers youth and nurtures the coastal arts ecosystem.
Not the First Time Kithi Has Faced Criticism
This is not the first time the lawyer has found himself on the receiving end of public dissatisfaction regarding artist selection.
In the past, Kithi has brought Tanzanian star Mbosso to Kilifi multiple times, especially during New Year’s Eve celebrations.
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According to Kithi, these bookings were part of a larger initiative aimed at boosting the local creative sector, empowering young artists, and fostering cross-border collaborations between Kilifi musicians and established East African talents.
His efforts, he has previously explained, include conversations around future collaborations, mentorship opportunities, and even radio involvement for local artists.
Decision Still Pending
As it stands, the official list of performers for the 2025 Kilifi New Year Crossover Festival remains undecided.
Kithi maintained that once the responsible committee finalises the lineup, the public will be informed through the correct channels.
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