This archive report was first published on 27 August 2019.
On August 27, 2019, Kenya's Film Censorship Board, led by CEO Ezekiel Mutua, banned the playing of 'Tetema' and 'Wamlambez' songs in public.
The songs, released by Tanzanian singers Rayvanny and Diamond Platinumz, respectively, contain explicit lyrics that are deemed unsuitable for public consumption.
According to Dr. Mutua, the songs can only be played in nightclubs and bars where the audience is strictly adult.
He also criticized national leaders for dancing to the songs in public, calling it 'embarrassing' and 'obscenity'.
Dr. Mutua stated, 'Tetema and Wamlambez songs are strictly forbidden outside of clubs and bars. It’s embarrassing to see even national leaders singing and dancing to the obscenity in public. The lyrics are dirty and not suitable for public consumption, especially mixed company or where children are likely to be watching or listening. Both songs are pure pornography.'
He added, 'While we may not ban them because they are coded, it’s important for the public to know that they are dirty and unsuitable for mixed company. Let them be restricted to clubs, strictly for adults.'
The songs have been popular in Kenya, with 'Tetema' released in February 2019 and 'Wamlambez' released in April 2019.
