Tanzania bans songs by Diamond, 10 others

Tanzanian pop star Diamond Platnumz performing on stage at the Koroga Festival held at the Carnivore Grounds in Nairobi, on May 28, 2017. Tanzania has banned 13 local songs on grounds that they are against the country’s norms and values. FILE PHOTO | NATION

What you need to know:

  • Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) announced the ban on Wednesday after receiving a list of the songs from the National Arts Council of Tanzania (Basata).

Tanzania has banned 13 local songs on grounds that they are against the country’s norms and values.

Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) announced the ban on Wednesday after receiving a list of the songs from the National Arts Council of Tanzania (Basata).

“The said records have lyrics which violate ethics of regulations of broadcasting services (Content) 2005,” TCRA said in a statement to media.

Among those prohibited are Hallelujah and Waka Waka by Tanzanian pop star Diamond Platnumz.

Other Bongo songs are Pale Kati Patamu by Ney wa Mitego, Chura and Nimevurugwa by Snura, Hainaga Ushemeji by Manifongo, I’m Sorry JK by Nikki Mbishi, Kibamia by Roma Mkatoliki, Tema Mate Tumchape by Madee, Uzuri Wako by Jux, Nampa Papa by Gigy Money and Nampaga by Barnaba.

The ban comes after President John Magufuli last December complained about obscene music videos.