Gospel singer Bahati Bukuku has questioned Joel Lwaga’s musical partnership with Diamond Platnumz.
The Tanzanian gospel veteran says her spiritual convictions would rule out a similar partnership, while stressing that other artistes make their own choices.
Tanzanian gospel singer Bahati Bukuku has questioned Joel Lwaga’s decision to collaborate with Bongo Flava star Diamond Platnumz.
Bukuku said such a partnership would not align with her personal spiritual beliefs.
Her comments followed the release of Nikumbuke, a prayer-themed song by Lwaga and Diamond Platnumz.
The artists released the track on September 23, 2026.
The song asks God to remember people facing different challenges and hardships.
Speaking on East Africa Radio on September 24, Bukuku said she would not pursue a similar collaboration.
However, she stressed that her views reflect her personal convictions and not a judgment of other artists.
Bukuku explains her personal position
During the interview, Bukuku explained why she would not take part in a similar project.
She used the contrast between light and darkness to illustrate her perspective on gospel and secular music collaborations.
According to Bukuku, her spiritual beliefs do not support that type of partnership.
The veteran singer repeatedly emphasised that she was speaking from a personal standpoint.
She said every artist has the freedom to make their own decisions regarding collaborations.
Bukuku acknowledged that musicians approach such choices differently.
She maintained that her own path remains guided by her faith and spiritual convictions.
Her remarks focused on the principles she follows in her gospel ministry rather than criticism of individual artists.
Nikumbuke reaches early milestone
Nikumbuke places prayer and faith at the centre of its message.
The song speaks to people facing difficulties and seeking God’s intervention in their lives.
Following its release, Joel Lwaga celebrated the song’s strong early performance online.
He said the track surpassed 500,000 YouTube views within its first 24 hours.
Bukuku’s interview came a day after the release.
The collaboration between a gospel artist and a mainstream Bongo Flava star became a major topic of discussion among fans.
While Bukuku questioned the partnership, she made it clear that her concerns related to her own beliefs and choices.
Two established gospel careers
Joel Lwaga has built a strong following through songs such as Mifupani, Nivushe, Mimi Ni Wa Juu, Wanitazama, Usipigane and Ngome.
Bahati Bukuku remains one of Tanzania’s most recognised gospel musicians.
She is widely known for songs including Waraka wa Amani.
Throughout her career, Bukuku has maintained a strong focus on gospel ministry and faith-based music.
Her latest remarks reinforce the position she says she would take on crossover collaborations.
While she would not participate in such projects herself, she acknowledges that other artists may choose a different path.
