Tanzania’s self-proclaimed ‘King of Singeli’, Dulla Makabila, has arrived in Nairobi with a bold message for his critics and fans alike.
Speaking to digital content creators at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, the Tanzanian musician confirmed he has no intention of abandoning his use of traditional “witchcraft” to further his career.
The artist is currently in Kenya for a series of media projects and a promotional tour. His arrival follows the release of a landmark collaboration with Sauti Sol’s Savara, a track he claims is the first-ever international collaboration for a Singeli artist.
A Defiant Stance on Mysticism
The controversy surrounding Makabila’s spiritual practices surfaced after fellow Tanzanian star Alikiba reportedly urged him to stop visiting traditional healers.
Makabila, however, remained unapologetic about his choices. He told reporters that his success is built on a specific formula that he is not ready to change.
“I cannot stop practicing witchcraft because Alikiba doesn’t want me to. I usually go back home for it; I’m not sure if those experts can be found here, but in Tanzania, I do those things a lot. I perform a lot of sorcery, and I’m not lying about it,” he said.
He further clarified that his management team is in full agreement with his methods. According to the singer, there are no plans to stop these practices anytime soon.
He even expressed an interest in seeking out local “experts” in Kenya to assist with his spiritual investments while on tour.
The Intersection of Talent and “Uchawi”
When questioned whether his success is purely the result of supernatural intervention, Makabila argued that it is a combination of factors. He believes that while “uchawi” (witchcraft) plays a role, his inherent talent is equally important.
“That is why I didn’t want to force Alikiba to collaborate with me. I said, ‘Bro, since you refuse to sing with me unless I quit witchcraft, I am leaving to go and try my luck in Kenya’, and that’s why I’m here,” he added.
Breaking International Barriers
Beyond the controversy, Makabila is focused on taking Singeli—a high-tempo Tanzanian genre—to a global audience. His project with Savara was a calculated move to bridge the gap between Tanzanian and Kenyan music fans.
“I came to Kenya because, apart from my own country, it is the place I love the most. I know they support Singeli and they love Tanzanians,” he said.
During his stay, he hopes to collaborate with other Kenyan heavyweights, including Bien, Khaligraph Jones, and Nadia Mukami.
Personal Life and Perspectives
Makabila also shared insights into his personal life, which is as fast-paced as his music. Despite having gone through two divorces, he claimed he is never single for long. He told the press that he is able to move on from a relationship in as little as 20 minutes.
The artist attributes his confidence to his financial success. He noted that as a “rich man,” he does not see himself as having problems, even if his romantic life is often a subject of public debate.
