Babu Owino teases Swahili moves as Khadija Kopa finally performs in Nairobi
Tanzanian Taarab legend Khadija Kopa finally performed at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on the night of Saturday, June 14, 2025, in a much-anticipated show that saw Kenyan celebrities and political figures troop to the venue in droves to witness her live rendition.
Among the high-profile attendees was Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino, who did not hesitate to rise to the stage and showcase his rarely seen Taarab-inspired dance moves.
Babu, who was dressed in a vividly patterned floral suit, danced with vigorous energy in rhythm to the soothing harmonica beats, occasionally waving and shaking hands with ecstatic fans seated adjacent to the dais.
At one point, Babu joined Khadija on stage, dancing beside her as she continued to deliver her powerful vocals, while other political figures, including Senator Tabitha Mutindwa, also made their way to the podium to join in the celebratory dance.
Khadija, who jetted into the country two days prior, was the star headliner at the Swahili Soul Night, which unfolded at the KICC on Saturday evening.
She donned an elaborate African ensemble that featured a grand, handwoven yellow head wrap, which crowned her appearance with regal flair.
Upon arrival at the venue, she was welcomed with pomp and spectacle, as traditional dancers led her ceremonial walk down the red carpet into the main hall, where a sea of eager fans had assembled to receive her.
During her spellbinding set, Khadija performed a selection of her most beloved Taarab hits, including ‘Wigi Inawaka,’ ‘Rusha Roho,’ and her iconic 2014 single ‘Mwanamke Mambo,’ leaving the audience in awe and on their feet throughout the night.
Daughter’s wedding
After arriving in Kenya on Friday, June 14, 2025, Kopa spoke to the press and defended her daughter, singer Zuchu, after critics questioned the legitimacy of her surprise wedding to Bongo Flava star Diamond Platnumz.
Speaking to SPM Buzz, Khadija confirmed that her daughter is indeed married.
“Nikah ilishapita, alishaolewa. Ni ukweli,” she confirmed.
She stated that the Islamic marriage (nikah) had already taken place and that Zuchu was now officially a wife. She seemed baffled by the ongoing speculation, saying those who had claimed Zuchu would never get married should now accept the truth.
Khadija was notably absent from the Walii ceremony, an Islamic tradition where the bride’s guardian gives consent for marriage. She explained that although she did not attend the ceremony, she had already given her blessing, which is what truly matters in Islamic culture.
When asked if the couple were planning a white wedding, Khadija said that decision was up to them. What mattered most to her, she said, was that her daughter had now settled down.
“Walii sikuwepo, nilikuwa na shughuli zangu maalum. Ukishatoa ruhusa, imekwisha hiyo,” she said.
Loosely translated as;
“For Walii, I was not there; I had my special engagements. Once you’ve given permission, that’s it.”
“Wao wenyewe wanajua, watapanga, la muhimu ni Zuhura wangu kaolewa. Mlilo kuwa mkisema aolewa, kaolewa, wanataka nini tena?” she told off critics.
Loosely translated as;
“They know it themselves; they’ll figure it out. What’s important is that my Zuhura is married. You were the ones saying she should get married; now she’s married. What more do you want?”
