Tanzanian musician Diamond Platnumz faces restrictions in Kenya after the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) prohibited his song Kwangwaru from being performed or taught in schools. The decision, announced by KFCB Chief Executive Ezekiel Mutua, cited the track's 'coded messages' as 'obscene' and a threat to national values.
Mutua warned that foreign artists promoting 'immorality' or undermining Kenyan culture would face stricter regulations. He specifically criticized the song's lyrics, which he claimed encourage 'inama inama'—a phrase linked to explicit content. 'Dances and discos must be regulated to prevent foreign artistes from eroding our traditions,' he stated during a meeting in Mombasa.
The KFCB also accused international performers of evading taxes by funneling payments directly to their home countries. 'When contracts are signed and funds wired abroad, it constitutes corruption,' Mutua said, vowing to collaborate with local authorities to enforce tax compliance. He emphasized that schools must not expose students to 'obscene content,' warning headteachers of disciplinary action for violations.
This follows a 2018 Tanzanian ban on 13 local songs, including Diamond's Hallelujah and Waka Waka, after President John Magufuli condemned 'obscene music videos.' The Kenyan move reflects growing regional scrutiny of cross-border cultural influences and financial practices in the music industry.
