Singeli to headline CHAN opener in landmark stadium showcase

Dar es Salaam. Singeli, Tanzania’s high-octane, homegrown music genre, is set to make a historic debut on one of the country’s biggest stages—bringing its energetic sound to the opening ceremony of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

Dubbed the “CHAN Singeli Festi”, the post-match celebration on August 2 will follow the opening game between Taifa Stars and Burkina Faso, transforming the stadium into a national party ground.

More than 15 top Singeli and Bongo Flava artists are expected to perform in a vibrant halftime-style spectacle—drawing inspiration from international events like the Super Bowl, but infused with a uniquely Tanzanian spirit.

A cultural milestone for Singeli

Speaking ahead of the event, Government Chief Spokesperson and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Gerson Msigwa, said Singeli has grown beyond a musical trend into a cultural force and economic driver.

“Singeli has become a source of employment for many young Tanzanians and a powerful platform for promoting our culture,” Msigwa said. “It deserves recognition—not marginalisation.”

He acknowledged that while the genre has faced criticism for being noisy or sometimes vulgar, such challenges are not unique to Singeli.

“Poor content can be found in every genre—be it Hip Hop, Dance, or even Taarab,” he noted. “If any artist steps out of line, there are systems in place to address that.”

Msigwa also revealed that the government has submitted formal documentation to UNESCO, seeking to have Singeli recognised as part of Tanzania’s intangible cultural heritage.

“This is our music. It was born here. It reflects the creativity of our people. We believe it should be acknowledged on the global stage.”

He credited media entrepreneur Majizzo for championing the genre’s growth and visibility over the years.

Big stage, bigger dreams

BASATA Executive Secretary, Dr Kedmon Mapana, described the CHAN Singeli Festi as a groundbreaking moment for local artists.

“This will be the first time Singeli is showcased at a major international sporting event in front of a stadium crowd and millions of viewers,” he said. “August 2 will mark a new chapter in Tanzanian music history.”

Dr Mapana also announced that the government and BASATA are laying the groundwork for the first-ever national Singeli music awards, designed to formalise and uplift the genre.

“This genre deserves its own platform to celebrate excellence. These awards will be the first step in building that.”

More than music, a national statement

The CHAN Singeli Festi is expected to attract thousands of football fans inside the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, and countless more watching from home. For many, it will not only be about football, but also a celebration of Tanzanian creativity, identity, and pride.

As Taifa Stars kick off their CHAN campaign, Singeli will be there—loud, proud, and ready to electrify the nation.