Daily Weekly Monthly

THE BRAINWAVE
NEWSLETTER
3rd April 2023

FROM DREAMER TO ICON

THE INSPIRATIONAL JOURNEY OF TANZANIAN ARTIST
 THE BRAINWAVE
NEWSLETTER

As the world was ringing in the new millennium with the

threat of Y2K looming over its head, the nation of Tanzania
was also experiencing its own set of changes. It was like a
man standing in the middle of a fiery lake, struggling to
escape while time ticked away like a rocket. The country
had lost its founding father, Mwalimu Julius Kambarage
Nyerere, a year prior, leaving everyone in despair and
uncertainty. The future of the nation was certain but also
doubtful without him. It felt as if the country's engines had
suddenly shut down, leaving darkness to engulf it.

Dar-es-salaam, in particular, was a city drowning in a

murky darkness. It was a time of great turmoil and
upheaval, with the seasoned journalist and diplomat
Benjamin William Mkapa taking over as president with the
aim of changing the country's economic fate. He urged
everyone to tighten their belts, as the task before him was
daunting. The sickening feeling of life plummeting
downwards had consumed millions of Tanzanians, and
Mkapa's economic policies, under the wing of his party-
CCM, were not clearly understood by many.

But amidst all this, a young man with a charming, boyish

smile took a journey from Morogoro to Dar-es-salaam. This
wasn't like his previous trips to the big city in the '90s; he
wasn't just visiting this time. He was determined to
conquer the city and the nation, not just as an artist but as a
great artist. This young man was Ambwene Yessayah,
whom we now know as AY.

He arrived in Dar-es-salaam with little more than his

dreams and a handful of relatives and friends. Lucky for
him, he had lived in many cities and towns across Tanzania
due to his parents' civil service work, making him able to
relate to anyone across the nation. He settled in Upanga, a
neighborhood known for harboring the wealthy and
famous. But for AY and his friends, Upanga was just like any
other neighborhood. They were broke and barely scraping
by, with their dreams of daring to be unique muted by the
harsh reality of life.
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NEWSLETTER

But AY had a vision to become a pioneer in the business of Tanzanian music. He believed in
working hard and partying harder, in the power of positive thinking, and in the idea that
even in tough times, people could still have fun. He didn't want to follow the traditional
public-relations approach to music, but instead, he wanted to take strategic steps and
outmaneuver the competition.

And he did just that with his hit song "Ni Raha Tu." AY wrote the song on a whim while
hanging out at Bongo Records, one of the earliest recording studios in Dar-es-salaam that
had embraced the Bongo Fleva/Bongo Hip-Hop music genre. It was a departure from the
deep, conscious music that was popular at the time, and AY's focus on mixing business
with pleasure proved successful.

Despite the polarized media climate at the time, AY pushed forward and eventually got his
song played on the Bongo Fleva program on Clouds FM, one of the hottest places to drop a
new single. And with that, AY's star began to rise. He slowly changed the platform of music
in Tanzania by incorporating his business sense, becoming one of the first artists to get
deals on product endorsements, opening up new avenues for revenue and exposure.

Years later, AY would live up to his nickname of "Mzee wa Commercial" more than anyone.
He managed other artists, owned a company called Unity Entertainment, and was an
executive producer for a hit TV show called Mkasi. It all started with "Ni Raha Tu," a song
that propelled him to stardom and marked a new era in Tanzanian music.
 THE BRAINWAVE
NEWSLETTER

But the road to success wasn't easy for AY. He had to work hard and persevere through
tough times. He struggled to make money and faced rejection, but he never gave up. And
his resilience and determination paid off in the end.

Today, AY is not only a successful artist but also a respected figure in the Tanzanian
entertainment industry. He continues to push the boundaries of music and business,
inspiring others to follow in his footsteps. And although he has achieved great success, he
remains humble and grateful for his journey.

As we listen to "Ni Raha Tu," we can't help but feel inspired by AY's story. It reminds us that
with hard work, determination, and a little bit of luck, we can overcome any obstacle and
achieve our dreams. So let us all strive to be like AY, to dare to be different, and to never
give up on our passions. Because who knows, we might just be the next big thing in our
own right.

And AY's success didn't just happen overnight. It took years of hard work, perseverance,
and dedication to his craft. He spent countless hours in recording studios, fine-tuning his
skills and perfecting his sound. He faced rejection and criticism from some who didn't
believe in his vision. But he refused to let those setbacks hold him back.

But perhaps most inspiring of all is AY's commitment to helping others. He has used his
success to give back to his community, supporting various charitable causes and
mentoring young artists. Through Unity Entertainment, he helped a lot of artists achieve
their dreams.
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NEWSLETTER

In a world where success often seems reserved for the lucky few, AY's story is a reminder
that anything is possible with hard work, determination, and a willingness to take risks. So
let us all take inspiration from AY's journey, and remember that the road to success is often
long and winding, but with enough passion and persistence, we can all achieve our
dreams.

And AY's impact on the Tanzanian music industry cannot be overstated. He paved the way
for a new generation of artists to explore and experiment with different sounds and styles,
pushing the boundaries of what was once considered traditional Tanzanian music. He
brought a fresh perspective to the industry, combining elements of hip-hop, R&B, and
other genres to create a unique sound that resonated with audiences both at home and
abroad.

Today, AY remains a beloved figure in Tanzanian culture, and his music continues to
inspire and entertain millions of fans around the world. As we listen to "Ni Raha Tu"
(available in multiple digital platforms) and reflect on AY's incredible journey, let us all be
inspired to chase our dreams and make our mark on the world.

Let us be fearless in our pursuits, and never let anyone tell us that our goals are out of
reach. For if AY can go from a young man with a dream to a music icon and business
mogul, who knows what we can achieve if we put our minds to it.

AY is now the Founder of Yessayah Memorial

Development Foundation (YMDF) a developmental
non-profit organization that focuses on enhancing
the research, development, and use of renewable
energy (solar) specifically for off-grid communities.

One of their projects is an educational enhancement

programme through the provision of solar lamps to a
specific target group (students) and their families.
These lamps are sustainable and will help the
students learn/read beyond the sunset, also helping
the families to do developmental work after dark.
They have piloted this in the Handeni District in the
Tanga region, and the feedback post a year was
remarkable.

They are still developing other projects specifically

around supporting vocational education/skills in the
renewable energy spectrum. This will help the growth
of production and/or fixing/repairing renewable
energy devices in Tanzania. We shall also work
around policy changes in the sector of renewable
energy.
THE BRAINWAVE
NEWSLETTER
The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows across the dusty streets of Dar es
Salaam in the 1980s and 1990s. The city's pulse beat to the rhythm of struggle, its once-
vibrant colors now muted by the weight of an economy that had left so many of its youth
without a future. Unemployment gnawed at the dreams of young Tanzanians as they
searched for purpose amidst the chaos of a city that seemed to have forgotten them.

In the heart of the city, the street joints emerged as a refuge for the lost souls that
wandered the streets, seeking solace in the company of their fellow drifters. Like beacons
of hope, these makeshift gatherings drew in the city's youth, offering them a place to lay
down the burden of their uncertainty and share in the camaraderie of those who
understood their plight.

The air hummed with the sound of laughter and conversation, as young men and women
gathered around rickety wooden tables, their faces illuminated by the flickering glow of
kerosene lamps. The scent of strong coffee and fried street food wafted through the air,
mingling with the bitter tang of cigarette smoke that clung to their clothes.
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NEWSLETTER

Juma, a wiry young man with a quick smile and an even quicker wit, held court at the
center of one such street joint. He regaled his audience with tales of his latest exploits, his
voice rising and falling in pitch as he mimicked the characters in his stories. His friends
listened intently, their eyes sparkling with amusement as they found solace in the laughter
that momentarily allowed them to forget their troubles.

Back then, Dar es Salaam's street joints were like makeshift living rooms, where neighbors
and friends would gather around street corners to pass the time, playing cards, discussing
politics, and sharing their dreams and aspirations. It was a time when every street corner
had its unique narrative, woven together by the colorful tapestry of its residents.

As the day wore on, the street joints became a tapestry of human connection - a patchwork
of laughter and heartache, dreams and despair. Here, amid the city's chaos, the youth of
Dar es Salaam and every other city in the country found comfort in the knowledge that they
were not alone and that their struggles were shared by those who sat beside them.

As night fell and the streets of Dar es Salaam surrendered to the darkness, the flickering
glow of the kerosene lamps became a symbol of hope - a reminder that, in the face of
adversity, the human spirit would continue to shine. The street joints of the 1980s and
1990s may have been born from hardship, but they became a testament to the resilience
of the Tanzanian youth, who refused to let the weight of their circumstances extinguish
their dreams.

As the hands of time ticked inexorably forward, the landscape of Dar es Salaam began to
transform. Skyscrapers stretched towards the heavens, their glass facades reflecting the
promise of a new era. The dusty streets of the past had been replaced by the steady hum of
technology, as smartphones and the Internet-connected Tanzanians to a world beyond
their city's borders. In part, the streets have been replaced by different kinds of gathering
spaces.

In this digital age, the street joints of old have given way to virtual gathering spaces -
platforms like Clubhouse and Twitter Spaces, where Tanzanians congregate to escape the
tedium of their daily lives. Just as their parents and grandparents had once found solace
around rickety wooden tables, today's youth now huddle around glowing screens, their
fingers tapping out messages as they forge connections across the digital divide.
 THE BRAINWAVE
NEWSLETTER

These virtual street joints have become the heartbeat of a new generation, where young
Tanzanians can share their stories and aspirations, their voices echoing across the virtual
landscape. The conversations may have changed, the topics evolving with the times, but
the sense of camaraderie and the search for meaning remain as potent as ever.

In the glow of their screens, Tanzanians like Amani and Zara find comfort and escape.
Amani, a talented young artist, scrolls through his Twitter feed, his heart swelling with pride
as he sees his artwork shared and celebrated by strangers from all corners of the globe.
The digital street joint has given him a platform to showcase his talent and connect with
fellow artists, providing him with the inspiration and support he needs to continue chasing
his dreams.

Zara, a political activist, logs into Clubhouse, her heart pounding as she prepares to join a
room discussing women's rights in Tanzania. As she listens to the voices of her fellow
activists and shares her own experiences, she is reminded that she is not alone in her fight
for justice. In the virtual street joint, she finds the strength and solidarity she needs to keep
pushing for change.

But as Tanzanians continue to gather in these digital spaces, the challenge of maintaining
the essence of the street joints of old remains. The sense of purpose and the solace that
once brought people together now risk being diluted by superficial conversations and the
lure of instant gratification.

Yet, amidst the shifting tides of the digital age, the spirit of the Tanzanian street joint lives
on. The virtual street joints of Clubhouse and Twitter Spaces are not just places to escape
the mundane but also opportunities to forge a new sense of identity, belonging, and
purpose.

As Tanzanians gather in these digital spaces, the echoes of their laughter and the intensity
of their debates are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. In the face of change
and uncertainty, the need for connection and understanding endures, bridging the gap
between the past's street joints and the present's virtual spaces. And in the warm glow of
their screens, a new generation of Tanzanians finds solace and purpose, just as their
ancestors did beneath the flickering light of kerosene lamps on the streets of Dar es
Salaam.
 THE BRAINWAVE
NEWSLETTER

These digital platforms have become a refuge for Tanzanians seeking an outlet for their
frustrations, a place to share their stories, and a way to connect with others who share their
experiences. In these online spaces, individuals from all walks of life come together to
discuss everything from local gossip and politics to sports banter. Some have gone in a
good direction to share job opportunities and entrepreneurial ventures.

The atmosphere on Clubhouse and Twitter Spaces is reminiscent of the street joints of the
1980s, with users engaging in casual conversations, heated debates, and even impromptu
performances. The sense of community and camaraderie in these digital spaces is
palpable, echoing the spirit of the street joints that once dominated the Tanzanian social
landscape.

Just like the street corners of old, these digital platforms have become melting pots of
culture and creativity, where the country's youth come together to dream, collaborate, and
inspire one another. Clubhouse and Twitter Spaces have become the modern-day
equivalents of the traditional Tanzanian street joint, offering a sense of belonging and
connection that transcends physical boundaries.

While Clubhouse and Twitter Spaces have provided a sense of community and a space for
Tanzanians to gather and share ideas, there is an underlying concern that these platforms
are not being utilized to their fullest potential. The vibrant exchange of thoughts and ideas
that once characterized these digital street joints has slowly given way to gossip and
baseless discussions as users increasingly engage in conversations without verifying facts
or seeking knowledge.

These platforms, which once served as a haven for intellectual discourse and the exchange
of groundbreaking ideas, have gradually morphed into echo chambers of misinformation
and superficial chatter. In this new digital landscape, the pursuit of truth and understanding
has taken a backseat to the desire for sensationalism and instant gratification.

It is not uncommon to find Tanzanians participating in discussions on Clubhouse and

Twitter Spaces about topics they have little knowledge of, often parroting hearsay or
unverified claims. The lack of fact-checking and critical thinking in these conversations is
troubling, as it risks perpetuating harmful stereotypes and exacerbating divisions within
the country.
 THE BRAINWAVE
NEWSLETTER

The potential of these digital platforms to bring about meaningful change is immense, but
only if Tanzanians can harness them effectively. Users need to approach these spaces with
a renewed sense of responsibility, challenge the status quo, and seek out accurate
information actively.

Initiatives such as hosting expert-led discussions or educational workshops on Clubhouse

and Twitter Spaces could be a step in the right direction, encouraging Tanzanians to
engage with credible sources and to think critically about the information they consume.
By fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity and informed debate, these platforms could
regain their potential as catalysts for change and innovation.

As Tanzanians navigate the complex digital terrain of the 21st century, the challenge lies in
striking a balance between the allure of gossip and the pursuit of knowledge. For digital
street joints to truly thrive, their users must recognize the power they wield and the
responsibility that comes with it.

Only then can Clubhouse and Twitter Spaces reclaim their place as the vibrant,
transformative spaces they were always meant to be, with Tanzanians from all walks of life
coming together to share ideas, challenge assumptions, and forge a brighter future for
their nation.

The effective use of digital platforms like Clubhouse and Twitter Spaces is crucial for
Tanzanians for several reasons, extending far beyond the realm of socializing and
entertainment. As a developing nation, Tanzania stands at a critical juncture where its
growth and progress are closely tied to its ability to adapt to and leverage the opportunities
the digital age offers. Here are some of the benefits;

Fostering An Informed Society: In a world where information is power, having access to

accurate and reliable information is key to making informed decisions. By engaging in
meaningful, fact-based discussions on digital platforms, Tanzanians can empower
themselves and contribute to the development of a more knowledgeable and discerning
society.

Meaningful, fact-based discussions are crucial for a developing nation like Tanzania, where
the education system may not sufficiently nurture creativity and problem-solving skills.
Without these constructive conversations, digital platforms risk devolving into mere
propaganda machines, hindering progress and stifling intellectual growth.
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NEWSLETTER

Building A Strong, Cohesive Community: Encouraging open dialogue and healthy

debates on Clubhouse and Twitter Spaces can help bridge gaps between different groups
within Tanzania. These platforms can become spaces where individuals can challenge
preconceived notions and foster a sense of empathy and understanding, ultimately
contributing to national unity and social cohesion.

The users of digital platforms must embrace the value of diverse opinions, fostering open-
mindedness and a willingness to listen and learn from those who hold opposing views. If
not, these spaces risk becoming echo chambers where like-minded individuals gather to
merely validate one another, stifling growth and the potential for new discoveries.

Encouraging Innovation and Economic Growth: As Tanzanians engage in informed

discussions and collaborate on these platforms, they can discover new opportunities,
share resources, and develop innovative solutions to the challenges facing their nation.
This exchange of ideas and knowledge can serve as a catalyst for entrepreneurial ventures
and job creation, driving economic growth and prosperity.

Enhancing Tanzania's Global Presence: By using digital platforms effectively,

Tanzanians can amplify their voices on the international stage and participate in global
conversations. This increased visibility can help attract foreign investment, promote
cultural exchange, and raise awareness of the country's unique strengths and challenges.

To bolster Tanzania's global presence, users of digital platforms should actively engage in
rooms with participants from other nations. By sharing experiences, innovative ideas, and
building networks, they can foster cross-cultural collaboration and contribute to Tanzania's
growth on the world stage.

Promoting Digital Literacy and Inclusion: Ensuring Tanzanians use Clubhouse and
Twitter Spaces responsibly requires widespread digital literacy and a commitment to
digital inclusion. By prioritizing these objectives, Tanzania can bridge the digital divide and
ensure that all citizens, regardless of their socioeconomic background, have the
opportunity to participate in and benefit from the digital revolution.
 THE BRAINWAVE
NEWSLETTER

The significance of using digital platforms like Clubhouse and Twitter Spaces effectively
cannot be overstated. As Tanzania continues to navigate the complexities of the digital age,
how its citizens engage with these platforms will have far-reaching implications for the
nation's future. By embracing their potential for fostering informed dialogue, promoting
social cohesion, and driving innovation, Tanzanians can help shape a more prosperous,
connected, and enlightened future for their country. END

Jeff Msangi is a writer, social commentator, and social

media enthusiast. He frequently publishes at
www.bongocelebrity.com. He can be reached at
jeffmsangi at gmail dot com or

@msangijeff