Less than 10 days after its release on YouTube, the song “Anguka Nayo” has amassed over 1.3 million views, spreading like wildfire across the nation. Initially launched as a simple party track by rap duo Wadagliz, consisting of Kantel Mdagliz and MannaZ, the song has evolved into the heartbeat of the Gen Z anti-government movement in Kenya.
Sampled from DJ Creme de la Creme’s old hit “Kufa Juu,” the bouncy, catchy beat of “Anguka Nayo” quickly draws listeners to the dancefloor. The duo likely didn’t foresee the explosive reaction the track would receive or its perfectly timed release.
Had “Anguka Nayo” dropped in January, it might have been just another Arbantone hit destined to fade after some TikTok dances and club replays. Instead, its release coincided with a period of intense public agitation, transforming it into a revolutionary anthem.
The song’s title has become a euphemism for the collapse of corrupt public servants. As protests entered their third week, “Anguka Nayo” gained new life and meaning, echoing the spirit of classics like Eric Wainaina’s “Daima.”
During this period, President Ruto faced mounting pressure and began making concessions on policies that had sparked widespread discontent. The song became a tool for Kenyans to mock and demand the downfall of these policies, making it a symbol of resistance.
Significant governmental changes unfolded alongside the song’s rise. The rejection of the Finance Bill, austerity measures for civil servants, and the abolition of non-essential offices like the Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) were all marked by the anthem. Online, Kenyans gathered to sing the chorus, “Anguka Nayo,” celebrating each political casualty.
TikTok dance challenges further fueled the song’s popularity. The viral dance, involving a comical contortion of the body, hands outstretched, and rhythmic lowering, even drew participation from politicians. Former Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba’s attempt at the challenge, amid the Paris Olympics trip debacle, met with a cold response.
Wadagliz quickly capitalized on the momentum, shooting a low-budget music video featuring the rappers with friends in a rundown park. The reception was overwhelmingly positive, propelling the song to new heights. On TikTok, the sound has been used hundreds of thousands of times, often in videos relating to current political issues.
As the government faced increasing scrutiny, “Anguka Nayo” played a prominent role. The resignation of Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome, the controversy surrounding Musalia Mudavadi’s office, and medical interns protesting outside Afya House were all occasions to blast the song.
Now, “Anguka Nayo” is not just a hit song but a rallying cry for upcoming protests, with posters circulating online announcing the July 16 nationwide protests under the slogan “Anguka Nayo.”
In a previous interview, the artists explained that the song was inspired by their love for good vibes and dancing. “We just wanted to create something that people could dance to and feel good about,” said Kantel Mdagliz.
Wadagliz may be astonished by the phenomenon they’ve created, but “Anguka Nayo” has undeniably found its way into the hearts of Kenyans and the mind of the President.