Tanzanian President John Pombe Magufuli was pronounced dead on Wednesday following a cardiac arrest. In his death, Magufuli is remembered for bringing a raft of changes in the bongo music industry.
Here are some of Magufuli’s contributions to the bongo industry.
Uniting Diamond and Alikiba
Following years of feuding, Magufuli summoned the two bongo stars and challenged them to unite. According to Magufuli, the two are young people who should not waste time-fighting. The move was instrumental as Diamond Platnumz and Alikiba shared the podium in a rare occurrence.
Music and politics
During his re-election campaign, Magufuli brought together almost all top bongo musicians. This was a rare move as it had never happened before. Normally, the campaign trail only attracted a few artists, but during Magufuli’s era, almost the whole industry was brought together.
Music friendly policies
For years, Tanzanian musicians relied on South Africa for ordinary music video shoots. However, the entry of Magufuli into the mix led to the relaxation of existing policies that made shooting music in Tanzania easy. For instance, bongo musicians can now access venues that were once inaccessible due to high fees.
Realigning music management
During his tenure, Magufuli moved the Copyright Society of Tanzania (COSOTA) from the Ministry of Industry and Trade to the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports. He argued that the realignment was meant to ensure musicians are well compensated