The most basic things you may have not known about Tanzania festivals. (Part 1)

My first ever festival was my birth day, and am glad to say that today is my birth day. It is commonly known that when a child is born comes the celebration. Well I like festivals and I hope you do too. I won’t talk about my birth day but about Tanzania annul festivals in depth and in details.

Many writers don’t have good details on Tanzania festivals like the way I do, (am bragging about it!). I have read most articles on festivals that talk about public holidays mostly. But they don’t know how these holidays are brought into life by Tanzanians; they simply assume the similarities with other countries.

Take an example of Christmas.  I know it’s only May and we have long way to go for Christmas, but just read this to prepare yourself for the holiday. First of all it doesn’t snow here in Tanzania so please don’t compare it with the U.S. or any other country.  If you want the snowing you ought to hike Mount Kilimanjaro. But one thing in common is the family gathering tradition. I am Chagga ( a tribe from Kilimanjaro region) by native and it’s a tradition to go back home in Kilimanjaro for this holiday. At this time of the year most things becomes untouchable like an Indian dalit though the reason behind is the price tag, but people will still buy. I guess Nakumat Super Market had this in mind that’s why they have a branch in Moshi Town. The buzz, feasting and the fun are the most quality things you can’t ignore during Christmas in Tanzania.

Chagga women in cleaning after feasting.

Ramadan and the Eid-al-fitr is a Muslim prolonged festival like no other. The one thing I like the most about this ceremony is the fasting and the reward of iftar in swahili FUTARI (a meal especially prepared after the long 12 hours fasting) after the fast. If you can be as lucky as me you get invited to have a futari. Who can deny the taste of heavy juicy coconut milk, spices and everything nice as compliments to healthy ingredients in the making of futari? I bet, you won’t want to miss the next invitation. The setting and arrangements of the futari is done on a well knitted mart, could be locally made or bought from somewhere else. Next thing is folding your legs and share the delicious futari. Another thing noticeable is the full use of khangas (original made In Tanzania piece of cloth) and hijabu(Muslim way of dressing) very conservative. Other Muslim festivals include Eid-al-hajj (festival of sacrifice) Islamic New year and Prophet Mohammad's birth day. Most of times it's published that during Ramadan it is consider offensives eating in public but I'm real not sure about that, since Christians are all over. This applies effectively in Zanzibar.  

Political public holidays like Union day and Independent day have their own tastes and are very appealing. Despite the commemoration of these important days we get to enjoy Gwaride (parade) from different security and defense forces divisions like the Police and the Army. Here you enjoy the quality performance from the parading activities like marching. Most of these holidays are conducted at the national stadium most of times in Dar es salaam. I like traditional dances that are performed on these days and the reminder of the national song and anthem.
Political holidays in calender:
12 Jan: Zanzibar Revolution Day (Zanzibar)
26 Apr: Union Day
9 Dec: Independence Day

Stay tuned for part two. Stories to be covered includes the most popular and well know festivals by international tourist in Tanzania which most of them happen in Zanzibar. And the reasons behind their popularity.

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An International Exhibition kicks off in Mwanza one day before Easter.

An international exhibitions kicked off today at the Gold Crest hotel. The exhibitions features four countries including India, Pakistan, Syria and the host country Tanzania. A couple of weeks a go, I posted on seasonal activities and outings and I thought exhibitions just sums things up. I happen to attend the grand opening today and I came up with this story that I think if your in Mwanza now you should plan to visit.

In general there are not many new things, though some did caught my attention. The stalls are well arranged and it is easy to access the entire place freely and in simplicity. The venue is also small that makes it far to easy to go around the exhibition in no time. It is more ideal for the ladies because many stuffs are for them though there is suits and shirts corner and other few stuffs for the gents.

The best thing here is that it creates such a buzz to get you enthusiastic about life. Since tomorrow is Eater it make you feel like you are searching for the eggs. I personally love the Syrian Restaurant, ooh yeah it is always a good time. The aroma and all those nice smell you will definitely pull a chair and get down to business, you know what I mean! And if it is about an item I will surely pick the water fountain. One thing that I didn't like is the lack of the welcome mood because there is no an information desk. Happy Easter Holiday!

So Syrian.

A killer bed cover, very crazy!

Just Eastern dresses.

Any girl would love this

Water fountains

Busy people

Shoes and more shoes

A demo for every one.

Women are highly favored

Black Bongo wallet

We love demos

out of words!

Finally at the Restaurant.

A map to locate the venue at the Gold Crest Hotel Mwanza, second floor and you are in the exhibition.


View Larger Map

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Safari Lager Nyama Choma Competitions Mwanza Finals at Furahisha grounds 2013.

Last week I post on top 16 seasonal activities and outing you don't wanna miss in Tanzania and Nyama Choma (barbecued meat) competitions was included. Now lets explore deeper on Nyama Choma Competitions 2013. This finals took place at Furahisha grounds in Mwanza. I was the number one fanny since I arrive earlier than most people ha ha ha ha!

One thing before we dig a little deeper with the festival, the sponsor is the number one best beer of 2013 in Africa by the Institute of brewing and Distilling Africa. So I call this a win win festival. Not promoting the beer but I guess by the time your in Tanzania you will give it a try. Congratulations to Safari lager Tanzania.

The final 5 Nyama Choma competing bar, pub and Hotel included:
In no particular order
1. Lunara Hotel from Nyakato

Lunara Hotel

2. AR Pub from Nyegezi

AR Pub

3. Victoria Princess from Kirumba

Victoria Princess Bar and Pub

4.Gemstone Pub Nyegezi

Gemstone Pub

5. Shooters bar from Kirumba

Shooters Pub.

Honestly the competiton was a very nice one  I enjoyed so much. There was a panel of three judges who had to inspect and judge the competitors to make sure things went well and accordingly to standards. 

An advice from the chief Judge on the left.

What about a plate of Nyama Choma? You can't avoid this because it's what I come for in the first place.

You are welcome, it's Halal.

Are you in need of a drink ?

What's your flavor?

Live music was so available to keep the rhythm in style. While you have to  enjoy Nyama Choma and a drink of your choice but mostly best beer in Africa Safari Lager, music had to make the beat go on and create a mood. 

Dance to the beats.

A competition without audience and or fans is as good as dead. But Nyama Choma Competition in Mwanza was parked with a blast.

Lets enjoy people.

And now the moment You have been waiting for, to know the winner. Here the chief judge had to announce the winner of Safari Lager Nyama Choma Competition in Mwanza 2013. Along side the guest of honor and Safari Lager brand manager. The winner is ........ Victoria Princess from Kirumba

Victoria Princess Chef  showing grand prize of Tshs 1,000,000

The joy of winning.

So are you planning for the next year season of Nyama Choma Competitions? You can still catch up with the competition in Arusha on 24th March 2013. But if its impossible worry out there is always next time. Winners from other regions of Mbeya and Dar es salaam are Saigon Pub and Titanic Bar from Vingunguti respectively.

For more stories and photos of the Safari Lager Nyama Choma Competition Mwanza 2013 please check on our facebook page: Karibu Bongo and stay updated on twitter: @karibubongo

Do you like the competitions? If yes or not please drop your ideas on the comment box.

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Top 16 seasonal activities and outings you don't wanna miss in Tanzania.

Tanzania the land of Mountain Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti and Zanzibar. Yes it is an authentic wonderland, full of Natural blessings and friendly people. Do you know the seasonal activities and outings that are worthy while participating? Here are the top 16 that you should consider while in Tanzania. This will help you mix your safaristrip to the parks and games and end your experience by getting to know the local in the process during the events and activities. This emphasis our previous post on how to get to the climax of enjoyment when in Tanzania via tourism activities and sports.

1. Sauti za busara

Sauti za Busara, East Africa’s No. 1 festival brings people together in celebration of the richness and variety of African music. It takes place in Stone Town Zanzibar.  Centered within the ancient walls of The Old Fort, the main stage hosts three nights of non-stop live music, with the main program continuing Friday ‘til Sunday with performances from 5pm until 1am. Sauti za Busara features local and international artists across Africa and some other parts of the world. The month of the festival is mainly February where you got to celebrate Valentine's day. Named as among Africa's 10 best music festival by MSN AFRICA

2. Yatch Club Fishing Competition

Joining Dar es Salaam Yacht Club or Tanga Yatch Club is a simple matter, and you do not have to be a sailor to join, but it helps to enjoy the place. There are also the possibilities of fishing, scuba diving, swimming, sail boarding & kayaking. The sport fishing competition is on October in Tanga and monthly for Dar es salaam.

3. Swahili Fashion Week

Swahili Fashion Week is now THE platform for fashion and accessory designers from Swahili speaking countries and the African continent to showcase their talent, market their creativity and network with clientele and the international fashion industry. This is all aimed at emphasizing to the region that fashion is an income generating creative industry, meanwhile promoting a "Made in Africa" concept. It currently is the biggest and largest annual fashion event in the whole of East and Central Africa. This fashion week showcases on December.

4. Kilimanjaro Marathon

The Kilimanjaro marathon is run out of the town of Moshi, at the foot of this iconic mountain. This professionally organized IAAF approved race consists of a full marathon, half marathon and fun run. Set up by the organizers to grow sport and promote tourism in Tanzania, these races attract over 3200 runners from over 50 countries, and numbers are growing yearly.

Known as one of the most scenic races in the world, with Kilimanjaro's white peak looking over the runners as they run through both urban areas and rural farmland and villages, this is a must on all runners’ wish lists. March is the month of the competition. You register on February and race on March.

5. Fiesta

Fiesta Tanzania is the annual celebration of Bongo flava music, the festival brings in local flavor from local artists to international arts worldwide from such as Lil Kim, Ludacris, Ricky Ross and many others, you name them. Its evolves from the regional level and finally its gets to down town Dar es salaam to wind up the event. The finalizing festival happens on September most of times at Leaders Club ground.

6. Nyama Choma Competition (Meat Roasting)

It involves various cities and town such as Dar es salaam, Arusha, Mwanza and others. It’s a competition of roasting meat where the top five bars with the best roasted meat gets into regional final. Leaders Club grounds kinondoni gathers winners from Dar es salaam and there is where the fun at, you will enjoy the sweet aroma and the meat itself. It’s very delicious, March is its season. 

7. Miss Tanzania

Re-presenters for Miss World from Tanzania are prepared and nurtured here. It is among the very popular red carpet event in the country. The show acclaims International audience since it's prepared in an international manner. It features high performance from the pea-gentry themselves and from local and international artists. The event is carried on November.

8. Canoe Competition.

 Do you love water sports? Mwanza  got you covered on this. Come and compete in the largest lake in Africa, the lake Victoria canoe competition. If you have got the skills and the speed why not participating? Date and month of the competition is on October.

9. Goat Race.

It is the best for family day out, here there is a lot of family entertainment, kids corner and family picnic area. While the goats have to race you got to rest and enjoy the race. It is 13 years old now and it is held at Msasani Peninsula, on June. 

10. Miss Utalii (Tourism) Tanzania

The Pageants aims at promotion of tourism, culture and Investment of the world and the Nations, it also aims at promotion of Education, Health, Environments, Unite and Peace among Nations. Come and see the authentic beauties of Tanzania and at the same time enjoying the colorful event and meet new friends.

11. Rock City Marathon

Aims at promoting local tourism in Tanzania, but foreigners are warmly welcome to compete. This competition takes place in Mwanza, the home of Saa Nane Island National Park, the Lake Victoria and were the famous Nile Perch and Tilapia fish are much found. You will enjoy the magnificent rocky scenery and Tilapia for dinner. It’s Amazing. The marathon is mainly on October.

12. Tanzania Premier League.

It was started in 1965, the league consists of 14 teams playing a double round-robin. There are so many merging stars from Tanzania football so surely don't want to miss watching them kicking it like Messi and Ronaldo. The league takes off on September.

13. Wildebeest Migrations

The best time to see the migration is usually between June and August when the wildebeest congregate and prepare to cross the Grumeti River. However the route and timing of the migration is unpredictable so visitors must plan carefully to be assured of seeing the spectacle.
During the early wet season (December to April) the animals are found on the short grass plains around Lake Ndutu, the Moru Kopjes, the Gol Mountains and Seronera in the south of the park.

14. Darts Championship

This is for those who like indoor sports, its Darts Championship. Join the huge number of participating players from several regions across the country. Simply find a club in your region register and your already in the game.

15. Kili Music Awards

Here comes the Grammy Awards for Tanzania, its Kili Music Awards. This is a special night to honor the best musicians or artists in the country and across East Africa. Have you heard the sweet melodies from Tanzania? Its your chance to find out what Music means in Tanzania. All genres are included from coastal music known as Taarab to Bongo flava and so many more. The event is mostly held on April or May.

16. Mount Kilimanjaro hiking

There are so many reasons to climb to the roof of Africa, you name them. Here is the best season to hike to this 5895m standing mountain. Due to Mount Kilimanjaro's proximity to the equator, this region does not experience the extremes of winter and summer weather, but rather dry and wet seasons. Therefore, the best time to climb Kilimanjaro tends to be the warmest and driest months (see Kilimanjaro weather).

Additional  Activities and Outings In Tanzania from comments.

i. Whale shark watching
Whale shark season - October to March, Mafia Island. They are heavily present during that time in the Mafia Channel, outside the Marine Park on the West side. 

Do you know any seasonal activities and outing that you wish  to be included here? Please just add it to the comment box and will pull it here.

Worthy reading: How to reach climax enjoyment when in Tanzania via tourism activities and sports.

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How to feel and touch Tanzania in Artisan Craft

MWANDALE MWANYEKWA  is one of Tanzania's best wood carvers. Her carvings show the feelings that she has for people, animals, cultural beliefs, relationships and the environment in which they live.  Today she adds some spices to our delicious dish about 'Tanzania Authentic Wonder .' She will take us through the feelings and believes of Tanzanians. Experience love, nature, faith, entertainment, responsibility to mention a few, please welcome and share this African Cake.

                                        

SELF PORTRAIT: LIFE SIZE

Artist: MWANDALE MWANYEKWA
Piece Name: Self Portrait - Life Size
Date Made: 2006
Material: Female Mpingo (Ebony) Wood
Place: Bagamoyo (Tanzania)
Size: (132 x 27) cm
Price: Private Collection


Idea & Description:
In realistic art, an artist is supposed to make art just as he or she sees it not as one knows it. Because as an artist myself, I cannot make myself as I know but can only make myself as I see either in portrait or picture. And that was why I had someone else to make my face in clay before carving. Eventually after the clay portrayal, I would make a cement casting before I actually carve in wood.

Then, I would make a miniature trial but the life size as a practise is just to see if I can actually create a direct exactness.

MAMA NA MTOTO

Name Artist: MWANDALE MWANYEKWA
Piece Name: Mama Na Mtoto (‘mother and baby’)
Date Made: 2000
Material: Female Mkuruti Wood
Place: Bagamoyo (Tanzania)
Size: Length 9 cm. & Height 11.2 cm.
Price: Private Collection

Idea & Description:
As a woman and mother to be, I always think that children deserve the close attention of both parents, especially that of the mothers! That is why I put a symbol of the breast because that is the first centre of attention for the baby.

PASSION

Artist: MWANDALE MWANYEKWA
Piece Name: Passion
Date Made: 2005
Material: Male Mpingo (Ebony) Wood
Place: Bagamoyo (Tanzania)
Size: (46 x 21 x 15) cm
Price: US$ 1000

Idea & Description
You don’t have to be masculine to be a sculptor. It’s all about creativity, passion, and a positive mind. When you end up doing that job that the Most High has destined you to do you will never stop smiling, and one-day morning when your work is all over somebody will look back at what you did and he/she will say, “Passion kept her moving”.

ENVIOUS MONKEY

Artist: MWANDALE MWANYEKWA
Piece Name: Envious Monkey
Date Made: 2008
Material: Female Mpingo Wood (Ebony)
Place: Dar es Salaam (Tanzania)
Size: (52 x 18 x 20) cm
Price: Private Collection

Idea & Description

There was this funny monkey, which used to love only male human beings and hate women at the Bagamoyo Sculpture School. We used to call it “Jealous Monkey”.

Whenever it saw female students chatting with male students it used to be very violent. It became even more problematic since our school had more male students than female ones. This made me believe that animals have the same feelings as human beings.

Get to know MWANDALE MWANYEKWA HERE AND SEE MORE OF THIS: http://www.mwandale.blogspot.com/

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