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

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. “The festival theme reminds us that every child is born with potential, talent, and light. But for that light to shine fully, children must grow up feeling safe, protected, and supported, not only by their families and communities, but by all of us working together.

UNICEF, together with the Government, partners and civil society organisations, works to strengthen the systems that children rely on supporting social services and child protection structures; improving access to quality education; and helping families and communities adopt positive parenting practices while abandoning harmful ones,” said Elke Wisch, UNICEF Representative to Tanzania.

“For these efforts to be truly meaningful, we must confront the barriers that dim children’s potential. Reaching people where they gather, whether in communities or at events like Sauti za Busara, helps create opportunities to start conversations, listen to diverse perspectives, and work together to shift harmful behaviours and beliefs that stand in the way of children’s wellbeing.”

“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 they play in advocating for a world where every child feels safe, valued, and free to shine.