Shani Omari

This project examines the literary and cultural significance of Bongo and Zenji Fleva in Tanzanian culture and in Kiswahili literature. Zenji Fleva is included because Zanzibar's population, unlike that of the Tanzanian mainland, is largely Muslim and heavily influenced by Arab culture. This project enables us to understand and appreciate the literary characteristics and cultural practices of Bongo/Zenji Fleva in Tanzania, and serves as a basis of comparison between Bongo/Zenji Fleva and other hip hop cultures. The Bongo/Zenji Fleva artists themselves will be proud to see the importance of their work in Tanzania.