On September 24, 2026, Tanzania’s National Arts Council (BASATA) sanctioned Bongo Flava stars Harmonize and Nandy over separate incidents. The council imposed fines after investigations into conduct it said breached Tanzania’s artistic and moral standards.
Harmonize Fined TSh5 Million
BASATA fined Harmonize TSh5 million over his “Kudos” music video. According to the council, the video violated artistic regulations and undermined the dignity of viewers and Tanzanian institutions.
Harmonize was ordered to remove the video from his social media platforms. He must also pay the fine within 14 days. Furthermore, BASATA suspended his artistic activities until he complies with the directives.
Director Kenny Also Suspended
The music video’s director, Kennedy David Sanga, popularly known as Director Kenny, also received a TSh5 million fine.
BASATA said he violated artistic regulations through his direction of the “Kudos” video.
He was similarly ordered to remove the video from his social media platforms. He must also pay the fine within 14 days and suspend his artistic activities until compliance.
Nandy Fined TSh3 Million
Meanwhile, singer Nandy received a TSh3 million fine. BASATA said the violation involved clothing it considered indecent during her performance at the Miss Universe Tanzania 2026 finale.
The council said Nandy admitted the offence during questioning. She subsequently removed the video from her social media platforms.
Unlike Harmonize, Nandy was allowed to continue her artistic activities under supervision after complying with the ruling.
Event Organiser Also Fined
BASATA also fined Millen Privé & Co. Lifestyle Limited, the Miss Universe Tanzania organiser, TSh3 million.
The council linked the sanction to the incident involving Nandy’s performance. It warned the organiser to exercise greater caution when conducting artistic activities.
BASATA Summoned the Artists
The sanctions followed a September 22 summons involving Nandy, Harmonize, Director Kenny and Millen Magesse.
At the time, BASATA did not publicly disclose the reasons for the summons. The council later announced the penalties following its proceedings.
BASATA Warns Tanzania’s Creative Industry
The latest action highlights BASATA’s regulatory role in Tanzania’s entertainment industry. The council urged artists and other creative-sector players to follow relevant laws, regulations and artistic guidelines.
The sanctions have also sparked renewed discussion about artistic freedom, public standards and regulation in Tanzania’s entertainment industry.
