How Nuru represents Tanzanian culture in Europe through music

Residing in Sweden but deeply connected to Tanzania through family, friends and business, Nuru makes annual visits to her homeland. In 2024, she realised her debut album, Walimwengu, featuring tracks such as “Mhogo Andazi,” “Umeniacha,” and the title song “Walimwengu.” For her, releasing an album was a milestone and a testament to her identity as an artist.

Walimwengu is predominantly a Kiswahili album, with occasional English lyrics, reflecting her journey from Europe to embracing her Tanzanian roots.

“I felt it was important to showcase my artistic side in Kiswahili, representing my heritage and culture,” she explained.

Despite initial delays, the album launched on her birthday in 2024, with much credit going to producer Big Ben Joe, The Soul House studio, and Joe Buzz Production.

As a longstanding member of the Tanzanian diaspora, Ms Nuru has championed the spread of Tanzanian music across Europe. While impressed by Bongo Flava’s rising global presence, she cautions against impatience and comparisons to Nigerian music, which began its global journey decades earlier.

“Nigerian music started in the 70s; they had many years to develop. Our journey requires patience and unity,” she said.

Ms Nuru emphasises that the music industry is not only about talent but also business acumen, a lesson she learned early on growing up in Europe. She calls on all stakeholders, producers, DJs, musicians, media, promoters, and writers, to unite and craft a shared vision to propel Tanzanian music globally.

“We need to address our issues at home before conquering the world. Charity begins at home,” she said.

Collaboration has been challenging; despite efforts, working with other female Tanzanian artists has proven difficult, though she remains open to partnerships regardless of gender or age.

Ms Nuru studied music formally for three years in Sweden, contrasting with many Bongo Flava artistes who are selftaught.

She advocates for music education and the establishment of academies in Tanzania for music, film, and photography, which she believes will nurture talent capable of competing internationally. Initially known as Danuma, she gained recognition in Tanzania after embracing Kiswahili songs.

While acknowledging music’s universality, she explained that language plays a role in accessibility but does not limit an artist’s reach.

“English makes songs more accessible, but not singing in English won’t stop non-Kiswahili speakers from loving the music,” she said.

On a more serious note, Ms Nuru calls for legal frameworks to protect artists from exploitative contracts, citing disputes involving big names like Diamond Platnumz, Harmonize, and Ibrah.

“Bongo Flava is growing fast, but many artistes sign contracts without understanding the business side, and even label owners are still learning. We need education and external expertise. There are many ‘hyenas’ out there,” she warned.

Beyond music, Ms Nuru is a dedicated philanthropist, quietly supporting community projects without seeking social media attention, a contrast to many celebrities.

She believes giving back is a personal journey and hopes her example inspires others to be generous. Active on social media as a blogger and fashionista, Nuru also uses her platform to speak on politics and human rights.

 “I find it hard to talk to someone who says they don’t like politics. Politics affects everything, from the price of a tomato to our livelihoods,” she said.

 She urges influential figures to use their platforms responsibly to educate and empower people. On the hot topic of feminism versus traditionalism, Ms Nuru focuses on being a good human.

“I balance where I come from and where I grew up. Being the best woman I can be and proud of who I am. That’s what matters,” she shared.

Like many artistes, personal struggles fuel her creativity. “In moments of pain and despair, I go to a dark place and find my best lines. I don’t seek heartbreaks, but when they happen, I monetise the pain,” she laughed.

Ms Nuru the Light’s story is one of bridging cultures, advocating for artistic growth, and inspiring change, both through her music and her commitment to community and truth.