Tag: tanzania

Swahili Night in Maryland: Melting pot of East African cultures in US

Despite the tension about deportation and detention of rights activists between Kenya and Tanzania, Saturday May 17, proved to be a pivotal day for diasporans from East Africa, who gathered for food, drinks and music in the city of Baltimore, Maryland, USA, in this years of Swahili Night.

It was an “All You Can Eat” menu of Swahili food, good music and chilled vibes. The night’s events began at around 7pm Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), with a welcome by the MC, Voice of America Swahili Anchor Sunday Shomari

Dj Benny was spun a riveting mix of bongo flava, Lingala, taarab, benga and rhumba tunes from both the old school and more contemporary genres.

The menu comprised sumptuous, exquisite East Africa delights, including nyama choma, samosas, biriani, pilau, mandazi, fried fish, goat soup and sukumuwiki (Kale)

To wash these delicacies smoothly down was spiced East African tea with a touch of Zanzibari cloves and exotic spices. This provided a mix of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors that engaged the attendees taste buds.

The Swahili Night goes back to the early 2000s. Guests came from a range of states in the US including Florida, New York, Virginia, the Federal Capitol Washington DC and Virginia

Nationalities represented included Tanzanians, Kenyans, Ugandans, Congolese and Americans. The events was headlined by famous Tanzanian rappers Ibrahim Mussa aka Roma Mkatoliki and David Mlelwa aka Young Dee.

According to the MC Shomari, Swahili Night is important because of its centrality in preserving the cultural identity of East Africans. It reinforces the strong cultural heritage among East Africans in the diaspora while transferring cultural norms, mores and traditions to the younger generation of East Africans born in the USA

Swahili night also affords East Africans a platforms in the US to assert their presence in a political environment that can become xenophobic and unwelcoming to foreigners. Mr Shomari said: “Swahili Night provides networking opportunities for East Africans to connect with each other over food, music and camaraderie.”

With the current tensions between Nairobi and Dodoma over the deportation and detention of Kenyans attempting to attend the trial of opposition leader Tundu Lissu, Swahili Night affords the diaspora community of East Africans a chance to come together in a unity, solidarity and consanguinity

The Tanzanian rappers freely mingled with guests. The air was filled with a varied tone of voices enjoying the evening in conversation, laughter and exaltation as attendees danced to the pulsating music rolling off the discs of Dj Benny’s system.

Carol, a Kenyan in Maryland, who attended the event said: “This event is an important part of the annual calendar for East Africans. It is must-attend social jamboree that brings together a mosaic of nationalities, cultures and races”

Ogum from Uganda said, “Im glad to see we had matooke on the menu. The Spices used are Zanzibari, which gives the matooke a flavor a bit different from what i am used in kampala. I liked it though”

Most attendees shied away from discussing the political firestorm that was occurring 8000 miles away in both Kenya and Tanzania over deportations and detentions of Kenyan activists and legal literati.

However, Edward Mariga from Kenya was bullish in his opinion of the deportations arguing the suluhu administration had panicked and acted in an overhanded manner. Something not good for the East Africans Community He stated that i am disappointed with the treatment of Martha Karua and former Cj Willy Mutunga. Their Deportation from Tanzania for simply wanting to attend the trial of a major Tanzanian political figure is unnecessary and undiplomatic

This meeting of East Africa diaspora created a forum for East Africans to network, socialize and build human to human contacts which enhances the warmth, Africanness and unity of being East Africans in the diaspora

The Soundtrack of Tanzania: A Musical Experience Spread Over A Period of 15 Years Filled With Concerts and Music Festivals

By Anne Tendwa

In the past 15 years, Tanzania has undergone a paradigm shift, one that has seen this nation full of musical prospects metamorphosize into one that hosts numerous concerts and music festivals overflowing with beats around the beautiful country. From the white sandy beaches of Zanzibar to the lively urban center of Dar es Salaam, the music of this African region has transformed into a rich tapestry of culture and exuberance.

This was 15 years back; I remember Tanzania music as a rich diverse game that was and still is, a well- kept secret. Today, it is like there is a never-ending stream of music festivals in the country that can be resourcefully termed as – ‘press play. The emergence of Bongo Flava, a genre that incorporates hip hop with traditional Tanzanian music, has won the hearts of many. Stars like Diamond Platnumz and Vanessa Mdee have become a global phenomenon and not just in Africa which has helped promote the music of Tanzania in the world.

The music festivals in Tanzania take place for the sake of people; they are people’s enjoyment and participation events. Take Sauti za Busara festival in Zanzibar. An African Music Showcase Festival held annually; the event attracts thousands of revelers from every nook and cranny of the world. Imagine this: Picture the sun glimmering above the blue Indian ocean, the sound of drums in the distance accompanied with soft warm winds and images of people dressed in traditional clothes dancing to the music. It is a treat to the eyes and ears but that is just one indication of how exactly such celebrations have turned out to be a stew of many cultures.

The Nyama Choma Festival is an experience of rhythm-satisfying appétit and music in dappled dining, celebrating the time-honored Tanzanian culinary art of grilled meat with live performances. Who knew that chomping grilled meat down with rhythm could be this much soothing? This is culinary art combining with musical prowess to create an environment whereby even the shyest of souls find themselves dancing uninhibitedly.

Among the most exciting facets of the emerging music scene in Tanzania is its support for nurturing new talent. Many music awards, such as the Tanzania Music Awards, are often used almost exclusively as launch pads for new artists. However, these festivals also provide a platform for fresh faces who love music in addition to established stars. This has been an excellent vehicle for local talent to shine and audiences to identify a real future star before they take center stage in the wider world of music.

All of a sudden, the opening up of digital platforms means that the reach of impressively structured music by artists can now cross the globe. Local acts enjoy the chance to gain rapid popularity, thanks to overnight hits on social media. This democratized music means that anyone with a little bit of imagination and a true driving passion can achieve their dreams.

Certainly, this journey has not gone without its ups and downs. The pandemic blew the music industry backward, with concerts and festivals coming to a halt in 2020. But it is the very fiber of Tanzanian culture that has prevailed in such dry eras. Online concerts and performances were rendered a better option to keep the show rolling from the confines of one’s living room.

The future conditions for concerts and music festivals in Tanzania seem to be shining ahead and brighter. There looks to be much more interest in the local music and preservation of the place’s heritage, so the ensuing decade seems to promise great joy.

Conquering Kilimanjaro: A Journey to the roof of Africa

Nestled in the heart of East Africa, Tanzania is a land of stunning landscapes and

diverse cultures. One of its most iconic landmarks is Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest

peak in Africa and the tallest freestanding mountain in the world. Climbing Kilimanjaro is

a bucket-list adventure for many, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience that

showcases the natural beauty of Tanzania.

The Adventure Begins

For those seeking a taste of adventure and a glimpse into the natural wonders of

Tanzania, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an experience like no other. The journey begins

in the town of Moshi, located at the foothills of the mountain. Here, climbers gather their

gear, meet their guides, and prepare for the trek ahead.

mount kilimanjaro

The Route to the Summit

There are several routes to choose from when climbing Kilimanjaro, each offering its

own unique challenges and scenic views. The most popular route is the Marangu

Route, known as the "Coca-Cola Route" due to the availability of soft drinks along the

way. This route is favored for its relatively gentle slopes and comfortable sleeping huts.

Another popular route is the Machame Route, also known as the "Whiskey Route" for its

more challenging terrain. This route is known for its stunning scenery, including lush

rainforests, alpine meadows, and dramatic landscapes.

A Test of Endurance

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a test of physical and mental endurance, requiring

climbers to acclimatize to the altitude as they ascend. The higher you climb, the thinner

the air becomes, making each step more challenging than the last. However, with the

help of experienced guides and a slow and steady pace, most climbers can reach the

summit successfully.

A View from the Top

Reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro is an unforgettable experience. Standing at

Uhuru Peak, the highest point on the mountain, climbers are rewarded with panoramic

views of the surrounding plains and distant peaks. The sense of accomplishment and

awe-inspiring beauty of the landscape make the journey to the top well worth the effort.

Words from Those Who Have Conquered Kilimanjaro

"I have climbed Mount Kilimanjaro twice, and each time has been a truly transformative

experience. The beauty of the mountain and the warmth of the Tanzanian people make

it a journey I will never forget." – Sarah, United States

"Reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro was one of the most challenging and rewarding

experiences of my life. The sense of accomplishment and the stunning views made

every step of the journey worth it." – Filbert, Tanzania

Conclusion

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is not just a physical challenge; it is a journey of self-

discovery and a chance to experience the beauty of Tanzania in a unique way. Whether

you are an experienced climber or a novice adventurer, Kilimanjaro offers an

unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after you have descended from its

snowy peak. So, lace up your boots, pack your sense of adventure, and embark on a

journey to the roof of Africa.

By Vanessa Mwingira

Swahili Wood Décor

Swahili wood décor is a company that deals with interior and exterior designing of anything that involves woodwork. It was founded in December 2018 and is owned by Emmanuel Samuel.

Swahili wood decor is a company that deals with interior and exterior designing of anything that involves woodwork. It was founded in December 2018 and is owned by Emmanuel Samuel. He was still a student when he began this line of work and now it has grown into a very well-known company.

In the beginning Swahili wood décor did not have a specific space for work and so they were mainly found through social media. That did not last for long because they now have headquarters in Mikocheni, Dar -Es -Salaam in Tanzania. 

This company was started to help people get there vision to become real on what they needed. Different carpentry skills are used to create items, furniture and even buildings just as the customer wants. The act of making these visions come true was so as to save the people time to go around in shopping malls and stores looking for what they need. With making wood into items the certainty of durability is higher than the ones being bought from malls. Swahili wood décor is famous in making lamps, chandeliers, mirrors, wall clocks and many others items.

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In less than a year, the company was able to work on big projects in and out of Dar es Salaam. They worked in Kahama, Mwanza and also Geita. They designed different buildings using wood as their main material such as bars, shops and others. Furthermore, their biggest project was done in Dar es Salaam where they designed the Instanbul Turkish Restaurant outside of Mlimani City complex mall. The restaurant was done in perfection.

This New Year, Swahili wood décor has captured the interest of customers from other countries. As the saying goes “the first step towards getting somewhere is to decide you are not going to stay where you are”, and the step this company took was to spread its wings to other countries starting with South Africa. With all the achievements it has got this last year, we can’t wait to see more of their designs in many other different settings.

By Edna Deus

Three Lessons Corona Has Left Us With

The world might have heard of the saying goes by Cancer had picked a wrong diva but not Corona has picked a wrong country as many Tanzanians claim; why! Because regardless the geographical location or population the country is, it has somehow either experienced this unforgettable pandemic disease or its effects

The world might have heard of the saying goes by Cancer had picked a wrong diva but not Corona has picked a wrong country as many Tanzanians claim; why! Because regardless the geographical location or population the country is, it has somehow either experienced this unforgettable pandemic disease or its effects. Many families have lost their loved ones, Nations have lost the heroes and great leaders, mean while uncountable number of marriages have unexpectedly failed because it was about time the couples had to face each other’s hidden true colors throughout the Quarantine period. Interestingly.

Remarkably in Tanzania; the number of pregnancies in schools went tremendously higher than usual especially in Southern Tanzania and brought exceptional cases ever to happen in a country. This was one of those hectic moments in a lifetime when few parents had to witness the daughters became pregnant from their blood brothers just because of spending months together in the houses. What a horrible trauma for both parents and children!

Generally; the entire world had felt this global mental crisis of which no media outlet could be at rest except updating and enthusiastically reporting thousands of incidents while educating citizens on the precautions. This magazine however, respects all the incredible coverage done throughout but will not unnecessary repeat their works rather we will focus on the lessons learnt from corona.

 Learn to save money

In other words; it is about the time people learn to have plans A and B in their lives in case things fall apart unforeseen. A bitter truth about many people in Africa including Tanzania is; we do not have a habit of saving…whichever it is; money, food or even time. The money management has been a long time nightmare for us that’s why people would risk their lives regardless of how bad the circumstance may show up, just to get a family food for tomorrow. Sadly eight out of ten people could still go to their daily activities during Quarantine; worried more about their families dying of hunger other than the dangerous Covid-19 itself. Recalling form the situation, many Tanzanians could not afford a kilogram of sugar due to its highest price ever to happen in the country. Governments, Organizations and each individual is responsible and must consider ‘saving habit’ on a daily basis.

Appreciating the doctors everyday

There is no the paramount moment in 21st century where the world has appreciated the doctors more as the moment of Covid-19 although our appreciation should not wait for the pandemic to pop-up, because at some point everyone gets sick. The doctors have always been sacrificing their all just to make sure they save lives. The unknown figure of doctors have lost their lives to Corona in the process of saving others’ which surprisingly did not stop the rest of them to continue support their patients. In the developing countries like Tanzania where there has been shortage of equipment’s such as OPP, the doctors had a chance to quit and choose to protect themselves at home, oppositely they did what was possible in their hands to attend on their duties despite the dangerous environment. The yearly health budgets must make doctors’ safety a number one priority in all matters regarding health because it cannot be improved without their consent.

 

Working from home

It is about time for families to start investing more on the quality time at home.  A Zimbabwean man known as Mr. Arnold who is now residing in Tanzania told this magazine the reasons why such cases like marriage failure and students’ pregnancies happened; it is because there is no groundwork set for both parents and children to make a useful time while at home.

‘Where I come from we believe that if a man is at home before 8:00pm he is useless. We would rather make it to bars or do anything to kill time just to avoid being at home before the chosen time. Now imagine the Quarantine commands us to spend unlimited hours with the wives who are by nature are so talkative and men don’t like that and yet they have nothing to keep them busy…only divorce should be a savage to such families.  This goes to children as well, we parents must start teaching our kids to be busy at home but this doesn’t mean we should ignore spending the quality time with family together’ He said.
On a nutshell; despite of all that took place the Tanzanians have remained calm and maintain their positive attitudes towards life in general. With on-going the 2020 election campaign at the moment, majority of citizens have experienced the businesses failures because of the almost no money circulations but are still working hard and keep their hopes higher for a better tomorrow.

by Khadija Amri