Akon crowns Tanzanian winner of Airtel TRACE Music Star competition

On April 18, Tanzanian-born Mayunga Andrew Nalimi reigned supreme when he took home the first place trophy as winner of the maiden Airtel TRACE Music Star competition.

With more than 2.3 million calls made by music enthusiasts who wanted to become stars, Airtel TRACE Music Star is by far the biggest music competition to ever take place on the African continent.

Thirteen finalists battled it out for the number one spot and a chance to kick-start their music career with international music star, Akon.

The contestants were from Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Madagascar, Malawi, Nigeria, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Chad, Congo Brazzaville, The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Gabon.

Mayunga Andrew Nalimi was crowned by international music star Akon as President of the jury, which also comprised of renowned music executive Devyne Stephens and top-selling French Caribbean singer Lynnsha, after a tough selection process.

The Tanzanian beat Jitey from Nigeria and Baz from Congo B who placed first runner-up and second runner-up respectively, at the grand finale, which took place in Kenya.

Mayunga won the grand prize, which included a record deal with Universal Music, a promotion as well as mentorship campaigns for a total value exceeding $500,000.