Joseph Isangura
Rising Tanzanian music sensation Abigail Chams made headlines across the continent this week after representing East Africa on one of the world’s biggest entertainment stages — the 2025 BET Awards.
Although she didn’t take home the Best New International Act, her nomination alone was a historic feat that has cemented her status as a global trailblazer.
The coveted award was won by Brazil’s Ajuliacosta, whose electric blend of Latin soul and contemporary pop has been gaining major traction. The win highlights the continued rise of Latin American influence on the global music scene, with Ajuliacosta’s success symbolizing an important moment for Brazilian representation on international platforms.
Abigail Chams stood proudly as the only female artist from East Africa to be nominated in this competitive category — a category that also included other global breakout stars such as Nigeria’s Shallipopi, South Africa’s Dlala Thukzin and Maglera Doe Boy, France’s Dr Yaro and Merveille, the UK’s Odeal and KWN, and TxC, as well as Brazil’s Amabbi.
The nomination was officially announced on May 8, 2025, and it quickly sparked waves of excitement and pride throughout Tanzania and across East Africa. For many fans, it was not just about Chams, but a symbolic victory for the entire region’s cultural and musical identity.
Chams, 21, is known for her rich musical background and multi-instrumental talent. A classically trained violinist, she also plays the piano, guitar, and flute, blending these elements into a sound that fuses Bongo Flava with soul, pop, and traditional African rhythms.
Her most recent single, “Hold Me,” was released just days before the awards, receiving acclaim for its emotive lyrics and polished sound. Fans praised it as further proof that she is ready to take on the global music scene.
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In a heartfelt Instagram post following the ceremony, Chams wrote: “This is bigger than me. It’s about every young girl from Dar es Salaam to Arusha who dreams big. Thank you for believing in me. We’re only getting started.”
The annual BET Awards, founded by Black Entertainment Television in 2001, celebrates African American and international talent in music, film, and culture. The international categories, particularly Best New International Act, have become crucial for spotlighting emerging global voices.
Although she didn’t win, Chams’ nomination opens new doors for East African artists and solidifies her place in a growing wave of African musicians reshaping global pop culture. Her rise parallels the success stories of artists like Diamond Platnumz, Zuchu, and Burna Boy, who have already shown the world that African rhythms belong on international stages.
With a powerful message of resilience and vision, Chams is not just a star — she is a symbol of East Africa’s unstoppable musical momentum.!
