Tom Daktari voices concern over disappearance of Tanzanian artistes from YouTube trends
Comedian Tom Daktari has raised concerns over the noticeable absence of Tanzanian artistes from YouTube trending charts, questioning whether the music being released is no longer resonating beyond the country’s borders.
Speaking during a video post on his Instagram on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, Tom Daktari wondered why songs from Tanzania, which previously dominated regional charts, now appear to stall shortly after release.
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He noted that while Tanzanian music once consistently occupied the top trending positions, that dominance has lately diminished.
“Guys, I have a concern. Ni Watanzania hawatoi nyimbo, ama ni nyimbo wanatoa ndio hazina nguvu ya kutufikia?” he asked.
According to the comedian, the issue may not necessarily be about artistes failing to release new music, but rather whether the songs currently coming out have the strength and appeal to travel across borders and connect with wider audiences in the region.
Tom Daktari recalled a time when Tanzanian songs comfortably held the number one, two, three and even four positions on YouTube trending, becoming staples in East African playlists.
“Nilikuwa naona trending number one, two, three, and four ni nyimbo za Watanzania. Saa hii what’s going on, Tanzania?” he posed.
He questioned what had changed, asking whether the decline reflects shifts within Tanzania’s music industry or changes in audience support across neighbouring countries.
He also posed a reflective question to Kenyan audiences, suggesting that regional trends could equally be influenced by listener behaviour.
Tom Daktari wondered whether Kenyans have become less willing to push Tanzanian music or whether attention has shifted toward local Kenyan releases at the expense of cross-border hits.
Industry turbulent period
His remarks come against the backdrop of a turbulent period for Tanzania’s entertainment industry following the October 29, 2025, general election, which was marked by protests and heightened public anger toward figures perceived to support the government.
Several prominent artistes who had openly campaigned for President Samia Suluhu Hassan later faced online backlash, with some retreating from social media, deleting political content, or deactivating their accounts altogether.
During the same period, stars such as Diamond Platnumz were forced to distance themselves from earlier endorsements, while others like Billnass briefly disappeared from online platforms amid calls for boycotts.
More recently, Harmonize, who also publicly supported President Samia during the campaign period, announced a major shift in his music strategy.
In a statement shared on his Instagram on Sunday, December 14, 2025, the singer said he would prioritise quality over quantity from 2026, signalling fewer releases moving forward.
Author
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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