Vitali Maembe, Tanzanian musician, teacher and long-time human rights defender, has issued an urgent plea for emergency protection and humanitarian support after fleeing his home country for Kenya due to escalating security threats.
For years, Maembe has used his music and cultural activism to advocate for peace, justice, and accountability, specifically aiming to inspire citizens and youth to value freedom, and truth. This work, however, has led to serious consequences.
Maembe recently faced accusations of “inciting protests” through his songs and public statements. Following these accusations, he reported that unknown individuals began following him, placing his personal safety at increasing risk.
Seeking temporary refuge, Maembe fled to Kenya. Tragically, he stated that the threats have followed him, and he continues to receive “worrying signals” that his presence in Kenya is now known, indicating his safety remains compromised even outside Tanzania.
Despite the severe risk, Maembe maintains his commitment to his family, which includes a daughter who depends on him, and his belief in the power of music and art to change lives.
“At this difficult moment, I am humbly requesting emergency protection support – any form of assistance that could help me find safety and basic humanitarian relief as I reorganise my life and plan my next steps,” Maembe wrote in his statement.
