Mziki na Maarifa, a European Union (EU)-program session. Photo EU
A new generation of Tanzanian musicians is stepping into the spotlight through Mziki na Maarifa, a European Union (EU)-supported music competition that blends creativity with civic education.
Launched on September 15, 2024, to mark the International Day of Democracy, the initiative gives young artists a platform to grow their careers while addressing themes of democracy, social issues, and civic participation through their music.
A platform for civic-minded creativity
The competition crowned six finalists on November 16, 2024, who have since received professional support, including song and video production, lyric-writing training, civic education workshops, and media exposure.
The programme is implemented by Nafasi Art Space, which led the event organization and creative direction, alongside Tanzania Bora Initiative, which provided training and production support.
East Africa Radio has also partnered in amplifying the artists’ voices and sharing their music with wider audiences.
Highlighting the EU’s support for youth and creativity, EU Deputy Ambassador to Tanzania, Isabelle Mignucci, said:
“Mziki na Maarifa combines the pillars of youth empowerment, creativity, and civic engagement areas that the European Union strongly supports.
The EU is proud to support the journey of young Tanzanian artists as they express themselves, raise awareness on important societal issues, and contribute to positive change in their communities.”
The latest milestone came in Dar es Salaam with the launch of a music video by finalist Gloria M, whose work reflects the project’s mission to use art as a driver of dialogue and change.
The event, hosted at Nafasi Art Space, brought together youth, artists, cultural leaders, civil society, and media.
“This initiative has given me the platform to speak about the real challenges young people face today, but has also given me the chance to share my dreams and hopes for a better future. I trust that my song will help inspire other young people to know that their voice matters and that they, too, can shape the world of tomorrow,” commented Gloria M, the finalist, as she reflected on her experience.
Arts and culture as engines of change
Stakeholders emphasized the role of music and culture in shaping public conversations.
On the significance of arts and culture in driving change, Nafasi Art Space Director, Lilian Hipolyte, said:
“Competitions like Mziki na Maarifa highlight the power of creativity in shaping society. Music and arts give young people a voice to share ideas, spark conversations, and inspire positive change in their communities.”
According to UNESCO’s report on cultural policies in Africa, arts and culture are critical tools for promoting social cohesion, civic engagement, and sustainable development.
The report highlights that creative expression allows communities, especially youth and marginalized groups, to engage with complex social issues in accessible ways, fostering dialogue and inspiring collective action.
Tanzania Bora Initiative Executive Director, Abella Bateyunga, emphasized the practical impact of the programme:
“Our focus was on equipping the finalists with the tools to create music that matters—through civic education workshops and production guidance, we helped them transform messages about society into songs that can inspire their peers. Music is such a powerful way to connect with young people, helping them reflect, engage, and contribute to their communities.”
About Tanzania Bora Initiative
Founded in 2014, the Tanzania Bora Initiative (TBI) is a youth-led, non-governmental organization dedicated to strengthening democracy, governance, and civic participation in Tanzania.
The organization uses innovative approaches, including media, technology, arts, and grassroots engagement, to reach young people and marginalized communities with information and opportunities to take part in decision-making processes.
TBI has built a reputation for linking creativity with civic education, ensuring that young people have the tools and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to their societies.
Its programmes have focused on civic rights awareness, women and youth empowerment, media literacy, and social accountability.
About Nafasi Art Space
Established in 2008, Nafasi Art Space is one of Tanzania’s leading contemporary art centres, providing a platform for artists to create, learn, exhibit, and engage with the public.
Located in Dar es Salaam, it hosts a wide range of programmes, including artist residencies, exhibitions, workshops, and community events that promote cultural dialogue and artistic innovation.
Nafasi works to nurture emerging talent by offering training, mentorship, and opportunities for collaboration, while also building bridges between artists and audiences.
Its mission is to support the growth of the creative sector in Tanzania and to demonstrate the power of art as a tool for social transformation and community engagement.
