Ali Kiba’s global ambitions: A matter of time, not competition

Dar es Salaam. As one of Tanzania's most celebrated artistes, Ali Saleh Kiba, popularly known as Ali Kiba, continues to dominate the local music scene with his smooth vocals and impeccable hit-making ability.

However, like many artistes, ‘Huku’ hitmaker harbours international ambitions—yet for him, it is all about timing.

In an exclusive conversation with the journalist during the launch of his new television station ‘CrownTV’, on September 13, Ali Kiba shed light on his plans to expand his career globally, his thoughts on the Tanzania Music Awards (TMA), and why his highly anticipated ‘Unforgettable’ festival has taken a brief hiatus.

During the launch event for ‘CrownTV’, which is now accessible on the Azam TV decoder channel 415, the ‘Sumu’ hitmaker assured his fans that his move to the international scene was just a matter of time.

"Going international is a matter of time. Every artist has their strategies. When the time is right, you will see me there. I planned to release an international album, but since it’s not ready and hasn’t been completed, I decided to give an EP for people to continue enjoying, entertaining, and dancing to Bongo Flava, which I have dedicated to them," Ali Kiba stated confidently.

Alikiba’s mention of the EP was a surprise treat for fans who have followed his journey closely.

After all, his last major international collaborations were in 2021, when he released the ‘Only One King’ album.

The album, which consisted of 16 tracks, featured some of Africa's finest musicians, including Mayorkun, Rudeboy, Nyashinski, Patoranking, Khaligraph Jones, Blaq Diamond, Sarkodie, and Sauti Sol.

It was a project that showed Ali Kiba's ability to blend his distinct Bongo Flava sound with global styles, but now, with his EP in the works, fans can expect a return to his Tanzanian roots.

Crown TV: More than just another channel

For many, the launch of CrownTV marks a new chapter in Ali Kiba’s career.

He’s not just a musician; he's becoming a media mogul, entering a space where few artistes have ventured before.

However, the multi-talented artist made it clear that he’s not aiming to compete with other television stations.

"We have already set up everything with programmes, but there will always be trial and error, which has been happening since morning. Now we are fully launching, and the goal is not competition but to give people something better. Let them do their thing, and we will do ours," he explained. 

Tanzania Music Awards: Honouring artistes and upholding values

Ali Kiba also took time to reflect on his participation in the Tanzania Music Awards (TMA).

He explained that one of the main reasons he continues to support the awards is because of the respect they show to artists.

"For a long time, these awards have respected us. They are people who value our contribution, so what they have done by bringing the awards back encourages artists to create quality work," he said.

But beyond respect, Ali Kiba believes that the presence of awards like the TMA helps to shape the Tanzanian music industry by promoting ethical standards.

"These awards encourage artists to produce songs with moral values, and I’m sure TMA won’t include songs that lack morals. At least through this, there will be discipline among our artists," he added.

Where’s the Ali Kiba Unforgettable Festival tour?

For those wondering why Unforgettable, Ali Kiba’s popular music festival, has been absent from the scene lately, the artist was quick to offer clarity.

According to him, the festival has not disappeared—it’s simply on hold due to the focus on his media endeavours.

"The festival hasn’t disappeared, but we paused it because of these ongoing media matters we are handling. We left Unforgettable to focus on media, and that’s why Unforgettable could even be part of this media," he explained.

While his fans may miss the festival, they can rest assured knowing that it’s not gone for good.

With CrownTV now launched, a new EP on the way, and continued involvement in initiatives like TMA, Ali Kiba is proving that success is a journey, not a destination.

His measured approach to growth—both musically and in business—demonstrates his belief that true progress takes time.