Kenyan musician Bien-Aimé Baraza has urged Tanzanian media and fans to give Kenyan artistes the same support Kenyans extend to Tanzanian musicians.
Speaking after arriving at the airport in Tanzania on Sunday, October 18, 2026, ahead of a performance, he noted that Bongo Flava enjoys significant popularity in Kenya, while some Kenyan acts remain relatively unknown across the border.
Bien said Tanzanian artistes are embraced warmly in Kenya.
“Wasanii wa Bongo hata sidhani kuna pahali mnasikizwa zaidi ya Kenya…wanawapenda huko sana,” he said.
A call for support both ways
He pointed to the reception Tanzanian music receives in Kenya, naming Diamond Platnumz, Harmonize, Mbosso and Zuchu. New releases from the four, he said, draw strong attention from Kenyan audiences and often trend at number one.
“Yaani, mziki wa Tanzania unapokelewa Kenya vizuri sana. Kwa hivyo ningewaomba pia nyie wa Tanzania mtupokee vivyo hivyo.”
Bien has also asked Tanzanian media outlets to pay closer attention to Kenyan musicians, saying some Kenyan artistes have yet to gain recognition in Tanzania.
He encouraged journalists and presenters to research Kenyan talent and give local acts more exposure. Support running both ways, he argued, would build greater appreciation for music from both countries.
“Maana yake kuna wasanii wa Kenya ambao wanaimba na hamuwatambui bado. Kwa hivyo fanyeni research kidogo kama media hivi, mtu-support pia sisi tunavyowasupport nyinyi,” he said.
75 per cent growth among young listeners
Bongo Flava continues to draw a large following in Kenya, with Tanzanian artistes enjoying strong support from fans across the border.
Diamond Platnumz, Harmonize, Mbosso and Zuchu are among the genre’s biggest names with a Kenyan audience. Their music regularly gains attention on streaming platforms and social media.
Spotify data released in July 2026 shows Bongo Flava streams among Kenyan listeners aged 18 to 24 rose by 75 per cent year on year.
The figures point to growing interest in the genre among young Kenyans.
