BASATA launches Rising Star Award for musicians

A brand-new talent pipeline for Tanzanian musicians just got the green light, and it has French backing baked right in.

BASATA Rising Star Award launch

• BASATA officially dropped the Rising Star Award at an event in Dar es Salaam.
• Executive Secretary Kelvin Stansilausi called it a historic day for the music sector.
• Alliance Française and the French Embassy in Tanzania co-developed the program.
• Flora Rousseau handles international representation for BASATA on this initiative.

How it actually works

• Emerging artists with tracks on digital platforms but weak promotion are the targets.
• Valid BASATA registration is a hard requirement for participation.
• Monthly winners score media tours, recording sessions, and performance slots.
• Professional development training rounds out the prize package.

Genre coverage is wide

• Bongo Flava, Hip Hop, Singeli, and Amapiano all qualify.
• Reggae, Dancehall, Gospel, R&B, and folk made the list.
• BASATA official Lilian Shayo noted the council operates across music, performing arts, and dance.
• The award falls under a broader strategy to level up the entire national music scene.