By Kimberley Khasiala
Photos by Kimberley Khasiala & Hamisi Omolo
What if, just for a moment, Africa felt like one big home filled with music, stories, and shared dreams?
What happens when music becomes a language everyone understands, even without words? For five days in Arusha, strangers greeted each other like old friends, united by rhythm, color, and shared purpose. It was a gathering where a song could start on one side of the room and somehow belong to everyone by the time it ended.
That feeling came alive in Arusha during a gathering that brought together artists, musicians, and community voices in a way that felt natural, warm, and deeply human. From March 17 to 22, the city became a meeting point for creativity and connection, centered on peace, non-violence, and food sovereignty.
The initiative is part of the World Humanist Forum’s thematic work on Music, Art and Culture, celebrating peace, non-violence and food sovereignty. It brought together humanist artists from East and Southern Africa and was hosted by Four Rivers of Blessings and MTO Wa Baraka in Arusha. The organizers didn’t just create an event, they created a space where everyone felt they truly belonged.
Each day flowed seamlessly into the next. Mornings opened with reflective conversations, while afternoons and evenings were filled with music, performances, art displays, and storytelling. It wasn’t just about showcasing talent; it was about sharing messages that matter, from respecting human dignity to caring for the environment and supporting communities’ access to healthy, locally grown food.
Photo: Kimberley Khasiala
At the heart of it all was organizer Tracey Kadada, whose passion for community work shaped the spirit of the gathering. She spoke about the joy of working closely with people, especially children, helping them discover and nurture their talents.
Her words to emerging artists were candid and encouraging. Success in music, she said, takes time, effort, and patience. It doesn’t come easily or quickly. What matters most is consistency and believing in the journey from the very beginning.
One of the most memorable moments of the week took place at Shades of Hope Academy. Children explored art, music, storytelling, dance, and photography. By the end of the sessions, they confidently presented their creations, demonstrating real growth and self-expression.
Cultural exchange sessions added another layer of richness. Participants shared and learned about traditions from communities such as the Wahehe, Sandawe, Wachaga, Wasukuma, and Iraqw. These moments fostered understanding and appreciation, reminding everyone how vibrant and diverse Tanzanian culture truly is.
Photo: Kimberley Khasiala
The message of peace extended beyond the main venues. A visit to Mlima Moto Church brought artists and community members together for a concert focused on unity and non-violence. Music filled the space, but the lasting impression was the feeling of togetherness it inspired.
As the week drew to a close, the energy team partnered with the Washarusha Festival. The team supported fellow humanist hip-hop musician Mdai Jasho, continuing the celebration of connection, creativity, and a borderless vision of Africa.
The invitation throughout the event was open to all. It was about coming together, experiencing something meaningful, and seeing how art and culture can unite people while inspiring a more peaceful and sustainable future
