Exploitation claims now rock Diamond’s Wasafi Records

Dar es Salaam. WCB could be one of the most successful labels in Tanzania today with a string of artistes signed plus other commercial engagements which now includes a TV station, but all is not well at Wasafi.

The label has found itself at the centre of controversy over claims that it offers artistes signed to Wasafi Records label exploitative contracts.

This is after Rich Mavoko, who is rumored to have ditched Wasafi , expressed discontent with his contract at a meeting last week with the National Arts Council ( Basata) .

He reached out to Basata to report his misgivings with his contract and wanted to be advised on how he can opt out without being taken to court for breach of contract. Mavoko is said to have complained of constant pressure from the label to release several songs without taking a break. He also claimed his contract with Wasafi was exploitative, therefore hurting his career interests.

What is not clear is whether the singer had read and understood the contract before signing with the lable some two years ago. Basata Secretary General Godfrey Mungereza is said to have gone through Rich Mavokos’ contract and advised him accordingly.

Basata has also reportedly signed the musician as an independent artiste and he is now allowed to work as a solo musician. On Tuesday, Diamond’s label issued a statement confirming that Rich Mavoko was having contractual issues with them and the matter is currently being handled by Basata.