Tanzanian musicians pay tribute to COVID-19 victims

The song features musicians Paul Ndunguru, Anna Kattoa, Isack Abeneko, Shabo Makota, Carola Kinasha, Leo Mkanyia, Man Kifimbo, Samson Naamala, Kauzeni Lyamba, Kikombe, Hassan Mahenge, Kauzeni Lyamba, Bandukine, Esau and Abuu Masika. 

It pays tribute to Congolese singer Aurlus Mabele and Cameroonian saxophonist Manu Dibango, who passed away in France last month due to the virus.

Apart from remembering the late musicians, 'Songa Mbele' implores people to take precautions against contracting COVID-19.

Mkanyia, who composed the song, says the initiative also wants to raise money to help those whose livelihoods have been shaken up by the coronavirus.

"We have all been affected in one way or the other so I wish for people to be empathic with each other," he said. "Most importantly, we plead with the citizens to support control measures that have been put in place so that life can get back to its normality.

"Musicians have been put out of work but we still want to contribute to efforts by the government in tackling the coronavirus. The song will soon be available on Amazon and Spotify. All proceeds will be geared towards a charitable cause."

Watch 'Songa Mbele' below: