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Diamond explains reason behind gospel collaboration with Joel Lwaga amid criticism
28th September, 2026 02:21 AM
Bongo Flava star Diamond Platnumz has explained why he teamed up with gospel singer Joel Lwaga on their song Nikumbuke amid criticism over the collaboration.
The song has attracted mixed reactions since its release, with some listeners questioning the decision by the secular artiste to work on a gospel project.
Speaking on Sunday, September 28, 2026, about the collaboration, Diamond said he had seen the different reactions to the song, noting that while many people had embraced it, others had reservations.
“Tunatazama, tuna macho tunaona. Wengi wamefurahia jambo hilo wamelipenda sana, lakini pia wengine ambao wapo walikosoka na mmoja au mwingine,” he said.
Diamond explains his thinking
Diamond said his approach was guided by the idea of serving people who need to be reached rather than only focusing on those who already understand a particular message.
He explained that the meaning of service was to identify people who needed it and make an effort to reach them.
According to Diamond, this was also reflected in the work of Jesus’ apostles, who went out to people to help them understand God’s word.
“If you avoid people who already understand, how will others understand?” he asked.
You have to reach them
Diamond gave an example of visiting Tandale, where he found a church located in the middle of Uwanja wa Afisi.
He said he asked the church leader why they had chosen to establish the church in such a location.
According to Diamond, the leader explained that they were there because they wanted to reach people in the area and help them change.
Diamond said the example reinforced his belief that people who need a message should not be avoided simply because they may not already understand it.
He added that the apostles similarly followed people despite facing challenges, including rejection and beatings.
“Ni lazima uwafate,” Diamond said.
The collaboration between Diamond and Lwaga has generated discussion because of their different musical backgrounds.
Diamond’s explanation comes days after veteran gospel singer Bahati Bukuku criticised the collaboration, saying she personally could not work with secular artistes because of her spiritual convictions.
“Sidhani kama nuru na giza zinaenda sawa,” Bukuku said, while emphasising that her view was based on her personal spiritual beliefs and that other artistes could make their own decisions.
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William Muthama
William Muthama is a digital journalist with a focus on entertainment, human interest, and current affairs. Share stories: [email protected]/ [email protected]
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