Katavi — PRIME Minister, Mizengo Pinda has counseled 'Bongo Flava' artistes to strive for academic excellence, for them to cope with the current changes, the sector is undergoing worldwide.

Pinda said much as they (young artists) invest time and resources in their artistic work, same efforts should be directed towards attaining success in education. He insisted that artists need to go an extra mile by going for further studies because art and culture industry needs well educated and professionals to excel.

The Premier made this remarks yesterday when addressing a public rally at Sitalike village where he was entertained by a 'Bongo Flava' group, which won the hearts of massive crowd at the meeting.

"Since most of the 'Bongo Flava' artists are youth, it is wise then not to be carried away by popularity they get, instead, they should take their time to go for further studies so that they can be able to face the challenges in the sector," he said.

He added: "You are still very young, we will be doing justice to you if we urge you to undergo for more studies, a fact which is very easy if you have proper management of your time, you can go to study in the morning, thereafter in the evening keep on with your artistic work."

The Premier used the occasion to showcase his artistic skills amid applause from the crowd when he danced to the tune of 'Bongo Flava'. He also recited a poem in his vernacular Kipimbwe and stressed on the need for the communities to promote and restore the culture norms through traditional dances.

Pinda, however, praised the group and awarded them with 100,000/-, while Katavi Regional Commissioner, Rajab Rutengwe, also presented the group with the same amount of cash.