Mbosso had been part of the ongoing Wasafi Festival since it kicked off in late August but now he has been barred from performing.
The Wasafi musician singer is among three musicians who have been sanctioned by the National Arts Council (BASATA).
Basata took action against Mbosso, Billnass and Wemea Sepetu’s boyfriend Whozu over what it termed as ‘inappropriate’ remix of the song ‘Ameyatimba’.
The regulatory body accused the three musicians of promoting and glorifying rape and sodomy.
The trio was fined Tsh3 million/Ksh150,000 each and suspended from engaging in artistic activities for a three-month period, starting from November 4, 2023.
In a related development, Whozu was directed to promptly remove the video of his song ‘Ameyatimba’ from all digital platforms. Additionally, Whozu has received a fine of Tsh3 million and a six-month suspension from his involvement in artistic activities, starting from the same date, November 4, 2023.
Basata disclosed that Whozu released the video for the song on November 2, 2023, featuring guest appearances by the suspended artists, Mbosso and Billnass.
The song’s content has raised concerns due to elements suggestive of offensive language, contravening Regulation 25(6)(j), and depicting actions of abuse, cruelty, and a violation of women’s dignity, in violation of Regulation 25(6)-(f).
“Basata has issued warnings and fines to Whozu in the past for disregarding the guidelines on adhering to ethical standards in artistic work. However, he has persistently ignored these warnings,” Basata emphasized in their statement.
Furthermore, Basata urged all artists and stakeholders in the arts to adhere to the newly launched code of ethics for artistic work, which is accessible on their website.
This recent disciplinary action by Basata follows the ban of another song earlier in August.
Veteran Tanzanian rapper Emmanuel Elibariki aka Ney wa Mitego released a song titled ‘Amkeni’ that sparked controversy in the predominantly conservative country.
In ‘Amkeni,’ Ney wa Mitego openly criticized the administration of President Samia Suluhu, causing the song to be swiftly banned Basata.
Related: Rapper Nay wa Mitego banned from performing in Tanzania over anti-Suluhu song
