In a bold move that signals a new era for Tanzania’s film industry, celebrated actor Salim Ahmed—widely known by his stage name, Gabo Zigamba unveiled his latest drama series Baraluko today, calling it “a gift to Tanzanians and the world” and a step forward in telling authentic African stories from a Tanzanian perspective.
The launch, held today (May 13) in Dar es Salaam and attended by media houses and key stakeholders in the arts sector, was more than just a promotional event.
It was a statement of intent. Gabo, a household name across East and Central Africa, declared, “We’ve reached a point where Tanzanian stories deserve to be told with depth, dignity, and creativity. Baraluko is our answer to that calling.”
Set entirely in Tanzania, Baraluko is a short drama series that explores the intricacies of love, marriage, betrayal, and family dynamics, all woven into the rich cultural fabric of Tanzanian society.
It is not just a drama—it is a mirror of life, complete with its joys and struggles, set against a backdrop of traditions and values that define what it means to be Tanzanian.
Gabo, who also stars as the main character Baraluko, is joined by renowned actors including Zulfa Msomali and Mary Mawigi.
Their performances, he says, are not just roles but representations of real people, “people we know, people we grew up with, people we sometimes ignore—but who carry the weight of our society’s challenges and hopes.”
What sets Baraluko apart is its intentional focus on social education through storytelling. The series aims to go beyond entertainment, using drama as a tool for societal reflection.
“We want people to talk, to question, to understand,” Gabo noted. “We want the series to open up conversations in homes and communities. That’s the real power of art.”
Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Baraluko is its accessibility. In a country where many still struggle with access to paid content, Gabo’s decision to stream the series for free on his official YouTube channel each week breaks barriers.
“This story belongs to the people,” he said. “We didn’t want cost to be a reason for someone to miss it.”
The first episode is set to premiere on May 14, 2025. The series will then continue with weekly episodes—each offering a slice of Tanzanian life that invites viewers not only to watch, but to think.
At a time when African content creators are pushing for greater representation and visibility in global media, Baraluko stands out as a grassroots-driven, culturally grounded project with ambitions far beyond its borders.
As he concluded his remarks, Gabo extended heartfelt thanks to the Government of Tanzania, the Film Board, local artists, journalists, and fans for their continued support.
“We’re not just building a series,” he said, “we’re building a legacy. And it starts here.”
With Baraluko, Gabo Zigamba is not just telling a story—he’s leading a movement, using the screen to bridge entertainment and education, tradition and modernity, fiction and real-life truths.