Several top Tanzanian musicians have responded publicly after Kenyan comedian and influencer Nasra Yusuf called them out for remaining silent amid the ongoing post-election unrest in Tanzania.
Through their Instagram Stories, artists such as Zuchu, Diamond Platnumz and Rayvanny shared messages that appeared to address Nasra’s remarks, emphasising unity, peace and faith during a tense national moment.
Zuchu, Diamond and Rayvanny Speak Out
Singer Zuchu posted the Tanzanian flag alongside the caption “Mungu ibariki Tanzania,” followed by a statement asking for peace and understanding:
“Mwenyezi Mungu ndiye mpanga yote, na hapajatokea jambo pasipo yeye kutaka. Na kila jambo hutokea kwa sababu. Na kwenye hili Mwenyezi Mungu atujalie sababu yenye baraka kubwa kwa taifa letu, atujalie amani zaidi ya tuliyokuwa nayo mwanzo. Roho za waliotangulia mahali pema peponi, Amina.”
Her message, which quickly spread across social media, was viewed as a prayer for the nation and a call for calm.
Shortly after, Diamond Platnumz — Tanzania’s most followed artist — posted an identical message to his Instagram Stories.
The timing of his post led many to interpret it as a response to Nasra’s criticism, which accused Tanzanian musicians of ignoring the unrest.
Rayvanny, another celebrated artist, also posted the Tanzanian flag with the caption:
“Sisi ni ndugu. M.A.P all my people.”
Though brief, his statement highlighted a message of solidarity among Tanzanians.
Nasra’s Initial Remarks
Through a series of strongly worded Instagram Stories, Nasra questioned why celebrated artists such as Diamond Platnumz, Rayvanny, Zuchu, and Ali Kiba continued promoting their music even as reports of killings and violent crackdowns emerged from across Tanzania.
“Why Are You Pushing Songs While People Are Crying?”
Addressing Zuchu directly, Nasra wrote, “Is it that you can’t see what is happening in your country? Why are you pushing your songs while your people are crying? Who is supposed to listen to those songs? Target audience wameuawa, nani mnataka asikize nyimbo zenu?”
She accused Tanzanian artists of being “compromised,” adding, “Who is supposed to speak when it matters, when all of you are silent?”
The comedian went on to question Rayvanny’s silence, writing, “Why are you silent about what is happening to the young people of your country? Why are you betraying the young people that gave you all the love and support?”
Her posts drew wide attention across East Africa, highlighting the growing frustration among citizens who feel abandoned by their celebrities during moments of national crisis. “Diamond, You’re Still Posting Songs While Your Fans Are Being Killed?”
Nasra reserved her sharpest criticism for Diamond Platnumz, one of Tanzania’s most influential artists. “Yaani bado unaposti nyimbo zako wakati mashabiki zako, wananchi wenzako, vijana wenzio wameuliwa kiasi kile?” she wrote.
by judy mutinda
