Sanaipei Tande: Kenya's "Flavour" and Cultural Rhythms at Intervision 2025

Kenya marked its presence at Intervision 2025 by selecting the accomplished singer, songwriter, and actress Sanaipei Tande (popularly known as Sanaa). Her entry was a vibrant celebration of East African energy and contemporary Kenyan music, showcasing a two-decade-long successful career.

The Road to Intervision: A Two-Decade Career and Cultural Icon

Sanaipei Tande was confirmed as Kenya's entrant after an internal selection process, leveraging her immense popularity and diverse professional background. Her career launched in 2004 when she became a finalist in the East Africa Coca-Cola Popstars Talent Search, leading to the formation of the popular group Sema. After going solo, she built a highly successful career balancing music with roles in acting and broadcasting. Her music portfolio includes hits like "Najuta" and "Chaguo la Moyo," with her 2021 EP NABO (meaning "Number One" in Maa) solidifying her solo status. Her participation was viewed as an opportunity to "share cultures and traditions" and use music as a "bridge between cultures," aligning with the contest's stated goals. She was joined by legendary Kenyan DJ, DJ Pinye, who served as Kenya's professional jury member.

The Contest Performance and Theme

Sanaipei Tande performed her song "Flavour," a track she adapted specifically for the contest to blend her unique style with fiery East African rhythms.Her song “FLAVOUR” was officially described as "a true anthem to life, love, and good vibes!" The organizers noted that the "fiery rhythms" of her performance were infectious and "got many viewers of our Final Show dancing." Sanaipei Tande was placed 6th in the running order and delivered a performance that emphasized high energy, strong vocals, and an authentic East African sound.

Contest Result and Life After Intervision

Despite the energy and the international recognition of the artist, Kenya finished toward the lower end of the scoreboard. Following Intervision 2025, Sanaipei Tande's participation marked a significant chapter in her career, bringing her music to a vast new audience across BRICS, CIS, and African nations. She returned to her busy schedule of music, acting, and broadcasting roles in Kenya. Her Intervision performance increased the international visibility of her existing catalog and confirmed her role as a cultural figure whose influence spans beyond music into wider entertainment and media.