Tanzanian music is grappling with a growing crisis as fans continue to boycott some of the country’s biggest artistes over their silence during the October 29 unrest — a backlash now threatening the very foundation of the Bongo Flava industry.
EFM and TVE CEO Francis Ciza, popularly known as Majizo, has urged fans to halt the ongoing boycotts, warning that the ripple effects are already destabilising the entire music ecosystem.
The backlash has been particularly harsh on top stars such as Diamond Platnumz, who has reportedly lost large numbers of followers and faced relentless criticism online.
Majizo said the damage is becoming visible across the sector, with several artistes scaling down their projects due to fear of rejection, reduced support, and threats from sections of the public.
“The industry employs thousands of young Tanzanians. Not supporting a music video can cost hundreds of jobs,” Majizo cautioned.
He explained that when fans withdraw, the decline affects dancers, videographers, producers, stylists, editors, and countless other creatives who depend on music for their livelihoods.
He appealed for calm and dialogue between fans and artistes to bridge the widening rift, stressing that many musicians — including independent artistes uninvolved in any political controversy — are being unfairly swept into the storm.
Majizo also apologised to fans who felt disrespected by harsh or dismissive comments made by some artistes in recent weeks.
Tanzanian celebrities have long been used by the ruling CCM party to bolster political campaigns — a practice that has increasingly drawn scrutiny and fuelled public frustration, especially during periods of national tension.
