This archive report was first published on 4 July 2020.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact businesses worldwide, many companies are resorting to mass layoffs to cut costs. Tanzanian singer Ali Kiba is the latest celebrity to make headlines for such a move, having fired his female manager Esilovey.
According to a statement from Ali Kiba, Esilovey was let go due to her inability to meet the singer's expectations. In a recent interview, Ali Kiba explained the circumstances surrounding the decision, stating: "Ni kweli sifanyi nae kazi tena. Ni taratibu za kazi, amekuwa na mchango kwenye kampuni yetu katika kipindi cha nyuma, lakini kuna vitu vilitokea and some misunderstanding na management tukakubaliana tumuondoe."
Ali Kiba also addressed the potential impact of the decision on his record label, Kings Music Records, stating: "Hapana, haitoleta taabu hata kidogo, Esi alikuwa mtu ambaye alikuwa anapenda kufanya hiyo kazi (Aliyoacha Seven) lakini hakuwa na experience, lakini kwa muda huu akae kujifunza zaidi how to manage."
When asked if he intends to fill the position soon, Ali Kiba replied: "Hakuna pengo, kila kitu kipo sawa, ndio maana hatujaona haja kuongeza mtu mwingine."