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Bongo Star Search expands to six African nations

BONGO Star Search (BSS) is back for its 15th season and this year, it has expanded its reach to six African countries: Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo).

DAR ES SALAAM: BONGO Star Search (BSS) is back for its 15th season and this year, it has expanded its reach to six African countries: Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo).

In Dar es Salaam, Director of Benchmark Production, Rita Paulsen, expressed her long-held dream of crossing borders in this initiative. She drew inspiration from President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who acknowledged her contributions to youth empowerment. With tears of joy in her eyes, Rita shared the excitement of seeing Bongo Star Search extend its influence across East Africa.

“I am very happy; these are not tears of sadness, but tears of joy! Bongo Star Search will now be visible in three countries and we will engage young people from six East African countries.” She credited President Samia for the motivation to pursue her goals, highlighting, “Since I received her recognition, I feel inspired to achieve great things. It’s rare to find leaders who truly acknowledge your contributions.”

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During the briefing, she noted, registration for the competition will take place in various regions of Tanzania specifically Arusha, Manyara, Mwanza and Dar es Salaam starting November 9. In Rwanda, Burundi and DR Congo, interviews will be conducted online.

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“We are grateful to our sponsors and partners of Bongo Star Search. You are not just stakeholders; you play a vital role in the success of this programme. Your support has helped us expand our reach beyond Tanzania,” Rita stated.

David Malisa, the Director of Marketing and Content at Startimes Media, the main sponsors of the event, expressed appreciation for their six-year partnership, which has helped showcase hundreds of talented young people. BSS episodes will begin airing in December, leading up to the finale on February 28.

Malisa encouraged viewers to continue subscribing to enjoy the entertainment. “In each participating country, five contestants will come to Dar es Salaam to compete for the title. The programmes will be broadcast on the ST Bongo channel in Tanzania, on Makala TV in Uganda and on St Swahili in Kenya via Startimes,” he explained.

Rita also announced that there will be international judges, experienced educators and professional artists who will guide participants to ensure they receive high-quality education and artistic direction.