Tanzanian activist Mange Kimambi has issued a stern warning to citizens, urging them not to allow artists back into the public eye, claiming that performers are prioritizing personal profit over the country’s welfare. Speaking on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, Kimambi cautioned that artists are seeking attention to monetize their popularity while turning a blind eye to Tanzania’s ongoing struggles.
“Citizens should not allow artists to regain visibility in any form. They are scrambling to get back into the public’s attention to start performing again and profit from your money. Allowing this would mean the liberation struggle has failed,” she said.
Kimambi argued that artists have historically been used by governments to manipulate public opinion, and giving them platforms now would continue this trend. She claimed that some performers have supported actions that have harmed Tanzanians, including abuses and killings, and should not be legitimized with public promotion. “For the country to achieve liberation, those who helped validate this government and supported harmful actions must not be given a platform again,” she emphasized.
Criticizing the entertainment industry, Kimambi highlighted recent music releases by artists such as Nandy and Zuchu, questioning the priorities of performers during times of national suffering. “While the nation bleeds, artists continue to focus on hits. What they care about is making money from citizens, not addressing our pain,” she remarked.
She further noted that previous performances sponsored by the ruling party, Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM), have ended, and artists are now turning to citizens for income, potentially betraying the public again in the future.
Kimambi called on Tanzanians to distance themselves from entertainers who ignore the country’s struggles, urging campaigns to unfollow social media pages promoting artists and entertainment. She stressed that the nation should remain focused on justice and not return to “business as usual.”
