Mziki na Maarifa was launched on September 15, coinciding with the International Day of Democracy. Its aim? To provide young musical talent with a platform to launch their careers while creating music that positively impacts society by addressing civic education matters.

The call was launched on both traditional and social media platforms, with the help of our competition Ambassador, Brayson Yohana, who is no stranger to music competitions, having won Bongo Star Search (the country’s biggest music competition) in 2022.

What is on offer? A professional music song produced for each finalist, a chance for media coverage and exposure, an opportunity to make a positive impact in society and ultimately a cash prize for the winner, who will take the crown at the final concert held in late November.  

Additionally, the finalists will receive training in civic education, lyric writing, and the skills needed to become music superstars—knowledge that will undoubtedly stay with them long after the competition ends.

In a fast-paced, ever-evolving society, the youth undoubtedly have an essential role to play in deciding tomorrow. Tanzania is no different, with the youth estimated to make up 75% of the population by 2025. Their presence and active participation in civic matters is crucial, and even more so considering that local government elections will be held on November 27^th of this year and General Elections will be held in 2025. Mziki na Maarifa aims to bridge gaps by giving the youth a platform to talk to their peers, in a language they understand…music.

Competition Ambassador Brayson firmly believes in this mission: "This competition is a platform to bring civic education and understanding to the forefront, while empowering communities to contribute to nation building, all in the spirit of unity!" His advice for aspiring singers? "Be the change you want to see in society."

The finalists Emmy, Alicia, Mussa, Gift, Glory, and Sharifu are driven by dreams of becoming Tanzania's next big music stars, hopefully, they will also leave a lasting mark as change makers in the country.

Follow their journey, hear their stories, and dance to their music in this transformative competition as we crown the next musical change maker this November! Stay updated by following the European Union in Tanzania on social media for all the latest news and highlights.

Mziki na Maarifa is funded by the European Union, and is being organized by Nafasi Arts Space, in collaboration with Tanzania Bora Initiative and East Africa Radio and TV.