The National Arts Council of Tanzania (BASATA) has called on Tanzanians to embrace cultural festivals as important platforms for preserving traditions, promoting artistic talent and strengthening national identity.
BASATA Acting Executive Secretary Edward Elias Buganga made the remarks in Dodoma during the closing ceremony of the 17th Cigogo Music Festival held at the Chamwino Arts Centre.
Buganga said the festival represents an important effort to safeguard Tanzania’s cultural heritage by ensuring that traditions, customs and values are passed from one generation to another.
“This festival plays a significant role in preserving our cultural heritage, promoting Tanzanian values and strengthening social cohesion. These are key priorities for BASATA as the institution responsible for overseeing the development of the arts sector in Tanzania,” he said.
He said rapid technological advancement should not be viewed as a threat to traditional arts, but rather as an opportunity to document, preserve and promote cultural practices while maintaining their authenticity.
According to Buganga, Chamwino’s strategic location as the home of Tanzania’s capital gives the area a significant role in promoting traditional arts and cultural activities.
He reaffirmed BASATA’s commitment to supporting artists and cultural groups by creating an environment that allows the creative sector to grow and contribute to economic development.
Buganga also acknowledged the continued support from the government and the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports in strengthening the arts sector and protecting Tanzania’s cultural values.
He described the Cigogo Music Festival as an important platform for preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Gogo community while contributing to Tanzania’s wider cultural identity.
The festival showcased traditional dances, indigenous tools, traditional houses and local storage equipment historically used by the Gogo community to preserve food.
“These displays reflect the richness of our culture while creating opportunities to identify and nurture artistic talent,” Buganga said.
He added that BASATA used the festival to identify and register artists and arts groups, enabling them to access government systems aimed at supporting creative businesses, employment opportunities and participation in local and international cultural events.
Buganga encouraged Tanzanians to continue valuing traditional arts while using digital platforms to document and share cultural heritage with audiences beyond the country’s borders.
He said combining culture with technology would help ensure Tanzania’s traditions remain relevant and continue gaining recognition globally.
