UNICEF calls on artists at Sauti za Busara to use their influence to protect children and turn music into a voice for children’s right to protection
Zanzibar, Tanzania — 5 February 2026 UNICEF calls on musicians and performers participating in the 2026 Sauti za Busara festival with the theme “Let Them (Children) Shine” to use their platforms to promote children’s rights, challenge harmful social norms, and inspire positive change across communities.
Music and creative spaces have long played a role in bringing communities together and inspiring positive change. Artists hold a unique ability to engage wide audiences, especially at festivals like Sauti za Busara, where people come from near and far to share in the experience.
“UNICEF is pleased to partner with Sauti za Busara under the theme ‘Let Children Shine’. It is a reminder that every child is born with potential, talent, and light,” said Elke Wisch, UNICEF Representative to Tanzania. “But for this potential to be reached and for this light to shine bright, children not only have to be healthy and learning, but they must also grow up feeling safe, protected, and supported by their families, their communities and by society at large - with all of us working together. Their wellbeing is a shared responsibility for all of us. We call on everyone to join this important cause!”
“A child cannot shine if they endure violence in any setting, if they live in fear, stigma or the silent pain of mental health struggles,” said Nabiha Kassim, UNICEF Youth Advocate. “As a champion of child rights, I will use this opportunity to engage with artists and audiences to raise awareness on child rights because protection of these rights relies on all of us understanding them so that we can fulfil them. Music can play a crucial role in amplifying child rights that’s why this festival can be a game changer in advocating for child rights.”
As part of the festival, UNICEF will host a special dialogue titled “Arts and Impact: Reaching Communities through Music to Address Violence Against Children”. The session will bring together artists, media, and child rights advocates to explore how creative expression can drive social transformation and influence public attitudes.
In addition, participants will have an opportunity to observe UNICEF’s work at an exhibition space and explore ways they can champion children’s wellbeing within their own communities.
Through their visibility, influence, and storytelling, UNICEF appreciates the critical role musicians and performers play in advocating for a world where every child feels safe, valued, and free to shine.
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About UNICEF
UNICEF promotes the rights and wellbeing of every child, in everything we do. Together with our partners, we work in 190 countries and territories to translate that commitment into practical action, focusing special effort on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to the benefit of all children, everywhere.
For more information about UNICEF Tanzania and its work for children, visit www.unicef.org/tanzania.
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About Busara Promotions
Busara Promotions is a non-profit, non-governmental organization based in Zanzibar, Tanzania, established in 2003. Its mission is to strengthen the East African music industry and promote cultural diversity through professional development, networking, and showcasing talent. Its flagship initiative is the Sauti za Busara festival - one of Africa’s most respected music festivals, celebrating African music, heritage, and unity-, held annually in Stone Town, Zanzibar. The festival brings together artists, audiences, and cultural stakeholders from across the continent and beyond and is known for its vibrant performances, cultural exchange, and inclusive programming that highlights children, youth, women, and marginalized voices.
