Bongo Star Search turns a multinational talent show

DAR ES SALAAM: THE  16th season of the Bongo Star Search (BSS) Next Level Revolution is set to return this year with a brand-new look. The competition will officially kick off on November 22, 2025, in Mwanza, at the La Kairo Hotel.

The grand prize winner will walk away with 50m/- cash prize and a brand-new car.

Speaking to the DAILY NEWS Digital in Dar es Salaam, today, October 24, 2025, the talent show’s director, Madam Rita Paulsen, said this season will be unique as it will showcase a wide range of talents — including singing, painting, acrobatics, comedy, instrumental performance, and dancing.

“I stand here with great honour and immense joy to officially unveil the 16th season of Bongo Star Search — a new season with a new face, new energy, and a new vision,” said Madam Rita.

She further announced a strategic partnership between Benchmark 360 and Azam Media, calling it a “marriage of vision” aimed at nurturing and shining a light on East and Central African talents through the BSS platform.

This year, contestants will come not only from Tanzania but also from Kenya, Uganda, Congo, Malawi, Rwanda, and Burundi.

Within Tanzania, the initial auditions will take place in Mwanza, Arusha, Mbeya, and Dar es Salaam — starting from November 22–23 in Mwanza and November 29–30 in Arusha.

Meanwhile, Yahya Mohamed, Chief Operations Officer for Content and Broadcasting at Azam Media, said the show aligns with Azam Media’s mission to deliver quality entertainment to the community.

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“Bongo Star Search Next Level Revolution is proof of our commitment to bringing entertainment to Tanzanians wherever they are,” said Yahya.

The show will be aired live every Sunday at 9:00 PM on Sinema Zetu channel via Azam decoders.