Ali Kiba, Vanessa Mdee win big at Kilimanjaro Awards

Bongo stars Ali Kiba and Vanessa Mdee were the biggest winners at the Kilimanjaro music awards held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania on Saturday night.

Ali Kiba won in three awards in three categories he had been nominated in.

Ali Kiba’s “Mwana” won the award for the Song of the Year.

“Mwana” also won the award for Best Afro Pop.

Ali Kiba, who was not present to receive any of the awards,  also won the award for best Songwriter of the year in Bongo Flava.

Songbird Vanessa Mdee could not hide her joy when she won the award for Best Bongo Flava artist.

“I am so happy,” said the songstress. “I thank my fans for making this possible.”

A speechless Mdee then went on to receive the award for Best Female artist of the year beating artists like Khadija Kopa, Isha Mashauzi, Shaa and Dayna Nyange.

“Sijui niseme nini,” a smiling Mdee said. (I don’t know what to say.)

“Namshukuru Maulana, na wale wote ambao wamanisaidia kufika hapa.” (I thank God and all those who have helped me get here.)

The Kilimanjaro music awards are held annually.