Shenseea's cross-over party cut short as chaos erupts at Raha Fest

Raha Fest 2024 was a blast as it began on 28th December but ended in chaos during the final cross-over party on 31st December.

The ruckus broke out after Kenyans forcibly "occupied" Uhuru Gardens just minutes after Jamaican dancehall artist Shenseea started performing.

In a viral video on social media and eyewitness accounts from the revellers at the event, Shenseea was escorted off stage amidst her captivating performance, leaving partygoers in shock.

Raha Fest had been successful since 28th December, with other international and local artists giving an amazing experience to the audience until the chaos erupted.

However, this is not the first time Kenyans have forcibly entered events in 2024. During Johnny Walker's Walker Town, some Kenyans gained access to Laureate Gardens despite the tight security at the event.

Chinsea Linda Lee, popularly known as Shenseea, took to her X account and wrote, “Now, KENYA ????? I’m a lil mad at y’all ngl!” This statement did not go down well with many of her fans in the comment section, given the limited time she performed. Her much-anticipated show left festival-goers disappointed after the chaos interrupted their entertainment during the cross-over to 2025.

Police and security quickly acted, getting the 28-year-old artist to safety before tear gas was discharged into the chaotic crowd.

Shensea only performed for 3 minutes because the Police lobbed teargas at the show. pic.twitter.com/RALDt6Sj1U

The Jamaican dancehall artist rose to fame after her album Shenyeng Anthem went global. She is best known for her guest appearance alongside Roddy Ricch on Kanye West's 2021 song Pure Souls, which entered the Billboard Hot 100. She has also been nominated for Grammy Awards and many other iconic accolades, winning several of them.

Shenseea is particularly popular in Kenya, with her songs Hit and Run featuring fellow Jamaican dancehall artist Masicka and Lighter featuring the legendary Tarrus Riley being major hits. These two tracks have been played in most Kenyan lounges, events, and on social media platforms. Other songs by the talented 28-year-old include Bad Alone, Die for You, The Sidechick Song, Good Comfort, Pon Mi, Hard Drive, Waistline, and Run Run.

Aside from the chaotic end, renowned artists delivered outstanding performances throughout the festival. Prior to Shenseea's performance, Tanzania's Alikiba, Uganda's Joshua Baraka, and Kenya's Lil Maina, Fathermoh, Ndovu Kuu, Harry Craze, Mista C, and Ace King entertained festival-goers to the brim.

Other artists who performed on the previous days include Nigerian BNXN FKA Buju, Ya Levis, Victony, Marioo, Njerae, Mutoriah, Zeman, among others. The iconic DJs at the event included Big Nyage, Tyler ICU, Lindstrom, DJ Kage, and DJ Satelite.