Tanzanian musician turned politician Shetta is in Nairobi for the Second Africa Urban Forum (AUF2) being held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) this week.
Months after being elected mayor, the former rapper has joined African leaders and urban experts to discuss the logistical and economic pressures facing the continent’s growing cities.
During the sessions which are ongoing, Shetta discussed how Dar es Salaam is navigating rapid expansion through a governance model focused on financial accountability.
“It is about transparency and the proper use of funds in visible development projects,” Shetta noted. “This is what encourages our citizens to continue paying taxes for the development of our nation.”
Shetta’s shift from the music industry to local government remains a point of interest across East Africa.
Known for hits like Kerewa and Nidanganye featuring Diamond Platnumz, his political career began when he won the councillor seat for Mchikichini Ward. He was later elected mayor by his fellow councillors.
The move has drawn humour from his former music colleagues.
On social media, Diamond Platnumz teased the mayor, asking, “Unajikuta nani hapo kwa mfano?” (Who do you think you are there?), while singer Ommy Dimpoz referred to him as “Lordddd mayor Misingi.”
The Africa Urban Forum is a continental platform established by the African Union Commission to address the rapid pace of urbanization across Africa.
It serves as a space for member states to coordinate on the New Urban Agenda, focusing on how to improve housing, infrastructure, and basic services as more people move into major cities.
The forum aims to create a unified African voice in global urban discussions.
By gathering policymakers, researchers, and local leaders, the AUF2 works to develop practical frameworks for making cities more resilient to climate change and more capable of supporting economic growth for their residents.