Biography: How Rich Msafii is transforming the Tanzanian media landscape
Anyone who has already watched Lony Bway's Wewe Hapo music video will agree that one of the most eye-catching moments in the visual masterpiece, was the cameo by Rich Msafii, one of East Africa's hottest radio host, who delivered one of the most unforgettable music video intros of all time.
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A few years ago, the Bongo Flava music industry was a different world. Entertainment presenters were often seen as gatekeepers and harsh critics, a factor that created a significant barrier between them and artists.
The relationship between musicians and presenters was at its lowest point, and no one could have predicted the shift we're seeing today.
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Richard Richard Nyondo, better known as Rich Msafii, who currently hosts the popular Tanzanian radio program Planet Bongo, has played a pivotal role in breaking down the barriers between artists and presenters.
Msafii's approachable, friendly demeanor has earned him numerous high-profile friends in the Tanzanian entertainment industry, helping to dissolve the long-standing tension between artists and media figures.
His annual birthday parties, including the 2024 edition dubbed Party La Taifa, which saw attendance from various Tanzanian entertainment stars like Marioo, Meja Kunta, Zee Cuty, Jay Melody, TX Dullah, and many more, have demonstrated how likeable and popular Rich Msafii is in the Tanzanian entertainment scene.
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Even with his bubbly and remarkable personality, Rich wouldn't have risen to his current heights without his incredible talent, which opened the door for him to host Planet Bongo, one of the most popular radio shows.
Since its debut in 2008, Planet Bongo has had only two permanent hosts before Rich: Salama Jabir, whom Rich regards as his role model, and Dullah Planet.
Equipped with his magnetic personality, charismatic on-air presence, exceptional voice, detective like research before sitting with his guests, and excellent interview skills, Rich is poised to remain a permanet fixture on Planet Bongo show for a long time to come.
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In this interview, Rich Msafii will talk about his biography, inspirations, family background and everything you wished to know about the Tanzanian radio host.
This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity while retaining its essence:
A lot of people know you by the moniker Rich Msafi, but what's your real name, and when did you develop a passion for being a TV and radio host?
My real name is Richard Richard Nyondo. I was born and raised in Iringa, where I spent most of my childhood, but we later moved to Dar Es Salaam, which became my stepping stone to start hustling as a presenter.
For me, being a presenter was a passion that was in my blood. I remember back in my school days, during presentations, people started recognizing my abilities.
Whenever there was an opportunity to speak in public, they would call on me to take the stage. That's whenI realized I had a knack for being a presenter and a host. . My passion truly kicked into high gear around the time I was in Form IV.
When did you first start seriously considering TV and radio hosting as a professional career, and how did that journey begin?
East Africa Radio was where I got my first big break as a host. It was my starting point.
I was initially recruited to East Africa TV to host the E-News program. Later, I was handed the role of an informer for the infotainment segment called Off Air in Planet Bongo, and that’s where my radio career started.
The segment ran from 1:30 pm to 2:00 pm – just a half-hour slot. Soon enough, people started to realize that I had what it takes to be a radio host too, and before I knew it, I was juggling both radio and TV.
So where did you get the moniker Rich Msafi?
Growing up, my parents, being doctors, provided a comfortable lifestyle, so I kind of lived some sort of a soft life life while at school. I could afford to switch up my shirts every day from Monday to Friday without repeating any.
I always made an effort to look smart and i had this habit of sneaking into my mom’s room to use her perfumes and body sprays—let’s just say I was always well-scented. This helped me stand out wherever I went.
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At school, people started calling me Sharobaro, meaning 'good-looking guy.' To set me apart from the other Richards, they began referring to me as Rich Msafi.
Interesting, so you didn’t choose the name Rich Msafi for yourself? It was actually your schoolmates who gave you that moniker?
Yes, that’s right. I was given the name Rich Msafi because I always stood out for being smart compared to other Richards. That’s why my slogan, which I coined back in school, has always been: Wakina Richard ni wengi lakini msafi ni mmoja tu
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So, how did you land a role at East Africa Radio and get the opportunity to host Planet Bongo, which we all know is one of the top entertainment radio shows in Tanzania?
I joined East Africa Radio in 2020, initially to work on the E-News program. Although my first role was with East Africa TV, I eventually transitioned to East Africa Radio.
Later on, I got the opportunity to host a half-hour segment on Planet Bongo called Off Air, which led to me conducting artist interviews on the show.
As things progressed, it was decided that I would become a permanent co-host of Planet Bongo alongside Dulla Planet and Lesa Sid. When Dulla and Lesa Sid eventually left, I took on the role of permanent host.
Given that you’ve conducted countless interviews since your debut, what’s the most memorable guest interview you’ve ever had—one that stands out and you’ll never forget?
One interview that stands out as a blockbuster for me is with Salama Jabir, who is one of my role models. I used to watch and listen to her when I was young, so interviewing her was a dream come true.
My first interview with her was on E-News, and later I had the chance to host her on Planet Bongo. It was particularly special to be sitting in the seat she once occupied.
Another memorable interview was with Big Joe (Joseph Kusaga), a key figure in shaping the Tanzanian media industry. It was truly a pleasure to speak with him.
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What other prominent guests have you interviewed since then?
One of my standout interviews was with Mwana FA. I had always wanted to chat with him during his peak as an artist, but it didn’t happen until he was serving as the Deputy Minister for Culture, Sports, and Arts. That made the interview even more special.
I’m also really proud of the interviews I did with Harmonize, Marioo, and Darassa. Getting to speak with Darassa after he’d been off the radar for a while was a big deal. Also my conversation with Ambwene Yesaya (AY) was truly memorable.
On top of that, I’ve had the pleasure of hosting some of the hottest rising stars like Dayoo, Kontawa, and Platform. Those moments have been incredibly rewarding.
What about on the international stage? Which artists have you had the chance to interview?
On the international stage, I've had the pleasure of interviewing some amazing artists. I had a great chat with Krizbeats, who produced the hit song 'African Beauty' from Diamond Platnumz’s Boy From Tandale album.
I also spoke with Ruger from Nigeria, the artist behind the hit track 'Dior.' Our conversation was fantastic.
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Let’s shift gears and talk about your family for a bit. How many are in your family, and which schools did you go to?
I’m the firstborn in a family of two. I started my studies at St. Michael’s, where I completed Form One and Two, and then I moved to Image Vosa, where I finished my O-Level studies.
How challenging was it to break into the media space, particularly at East Africa Radio, which is one of the leading stations in Tanzania?
The main challenge was building the right connections. While being a presenter wasn’t inherently difficult for me, establishing the necessary connections to achieve my goal was.
I had to create a network and develop those relationships, which ultimately helped me reach where I am now.
Which radio hosts or media personalities inspired you to pursue a career in radio and presenting?
I have to be honest—B Dozen has been a major inspiration for me, especially in terms of branding and presentation in the media industry. I’ve always admired his work.
I’m also grateful for the chance I had to connect with my role models even before I was fully immersed in the entertainment industry.
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Another significant influence is Salama Jabir. She’s my go-to role model for interviews. Whenever I’m about to interview someone who’s previously been interviewed by Salama, I make it a point to watch her interview first.
Given the nature of your work in radio and music, let’s wrap up this interview by talking about your favorite artists. Who are you currently listening to the most?
One of the artists I listen to most is Roddy Rich, along with Chris Brown.
In Tanzania, I enjoy a range of artists, including Diamond Platnumz, Ali Kiba, Marioo, Kontawa, Ney Wa Mitego, Nyandu Tozzy, and Mbosso.
However, Christina Shusho is the artist I listen to the most. I’d say she’s my favorite compared to the rest.
