This archive report was first published on 29 August 2019.
On August 27, 2019, Kenya's Film Classification Board (KFCB) chairman Dr Ezekiel Mutua banned Tanzanian singer Diamond Platnumz's song Tetema and Sailors' Wamlambez from public consumption, restricting them to clubs and bars.
However, the Tanzanian government, through the Baraza La Sanaa La Taifa (BASATA), has come out in defense of Tetema, stating that it is a good song that went through the necessary certification procedures before its release.
Speaking during a press conference in Tanzania, BASATA Secretary-General Godfrey Mngereza explained that the body thoroughly vets all songs before release to ensure they align with the country's requirements.
“Wimbo huo ni mzuri kwani hauna tatizo lolote na kawaida yetu huwa tunakagua nyimbo zote na kama wimbo ukionekana una matatizo huwa wanachukua hatua ikiwemo kuufungia. Tumekuwa tukifuatilia nyimbo za wasanii wa hapa nchini na kuwaita wanapokosea. Tunatoa onyo na hata kufungia nyimbo zao, lakini huu (TETEMA) hauna shida ndio maana nasema sijui wametumia vigezo gani kuuzuia usichezwe mchana,” said Mngereza.
Dr Ezekiel Mutua had justified the ban by stating that both songs were utterly pornographic despite their coded lyrics.
“The lyrics are dirty and not suitable for public consumption, especially children. It’s important for the public to know that they are dirty and unsuitable for mixed company. Let them be restricted to clubs, for adults only!” the KFCB boss said.
