This archive report was first published on 9 July 2020.
Shilole, a popular Tanzanian singer, has taken to social media to share her harrowing experience of domestic abuse at the hands of her husband, Uchebe.
According to Shilole, Uchebe has been physically abusing her, leaving her with emotional scars and a deep sense of pain.
She wrote on social media, 'LEO NUMEONA NIVUNJE UKIMYA KWA KUWEKA WAZI KWAMBA MUME WANGU ASHRAFU SADIKI, MAARUFU KAMA UCHEBE AMEKUWA ANANIPIGA SAAANA, NA TENA HATA BAADA YA KUNIPIGA HAJALI KUPIGA SIMU WALA KUJUA NAENDELEAJE, NAUGUZWA NA WATU BAKI HOSPITALI, NA BADO MANYANYASO MENGINE YANAYOIKOSESHA HII NINAYOIITA NDOA UHAI NA FURAHA.'
Shilole's post has sparked a wave of support from her fans and fellow celebrities, including singer Akothee, who has spoken out against domestic violence.
Akothee wrote, 'NO WOMAN SHOULD GO THROUGH THIS KIND OF HUMILIATION, IT'S NOT THAT WE ARE WEAK AND CAN'T FIGHT BACK, IT'S THE RESPECT AND LOVE THAT WE HAVE FOR YOU THAT BRINGS SUBMISSION.'
Uchebe, however, has denied the allegations, stating that Shilole had not come home for two days and that the photos she took were from a few days ago.
He said in an interview with Clouds FM, 'She took these photos days before you saw us on social media together. If it is separating, lets separate in peace. She shouldn’t disrespect me just because she has more money, it's not fair.'
Uchebe also denied physically abusing Shilole, stating that he had not beaten her.
However, Shilole's post has sparked a wider conversation about domestic violence and the need for support and resources for victims.
