The government has officially launched the Sabasaba Festival as a key part of the 49th International Dar es Salaam Trade Fair (DITF) for the year 2025.
Speaking today, June 29, 2025, in Dar es Salaam, the Secretary General of the Ministry of Culture, Arts, and Sports and the Government's Chief Spokesperson, Gerson Msigwa, stated that this festival, taking place for the first time this year, is expected to be a major attraction for visitors attending the fair, serving as a dedicated platform for artists and stakeholders in the creative sector to showcase and sell their work.
"This festival not only provides entertainment but is also focused on offering various services to the community, including the registration of artistic works, providing loans to artists, registering sports associations, and issuing permits for film activities," Msigwa said.
He added that the festival, which is being held in a special area of over one acre designated by (TANTRADE), also emphasizes the formalization of the arts sector through services such as Press Cards for journalists, newspaper registration, licenses for artists, and other on-the-spot services.
Regarding entertainment, Msigwa mentioned that there will be various music genres such as Singeli, Bongoflava, Taarabu, and dance music, along with fashion shows featuring renowned designers including Anna Collection. There will also be performances by talented artists like Alikiba, Lady Jaydee, Nandy, Jacquiline Wolper, Kombolela, and many others who have set up booths to showcase their work and products.
"This festival enables the public not only to enjoy themselves but also to learn, ask questions, and interact directly with their favorite artists. It is a platform for direct engagement between the community and stakeholders in the arts," Msigwa elaborated.
Additionally, he said that the event has created a family-friendly environment, featuring children's activities to provide entertainment during the holiday, while encouraging parents and guardians to take their children to participate in this entertainment village.
Overall, the Sabasaba Festival has established itself as a vital platform for enhancing artists' incomes, fostering creativity, and increasing community engagement in the International Trade Fair in Dar es Salaam, bringing together business, culture, art, and families.