 The legacy lives on He was a strong musician, a prophet, and freedom fighter, a symbol of freedom for the oppressed of the world. It’s been twenty-seven years since he died, but the legacy of Bob Marley still lives. The rhythms of his music makes you swing, the messages in his songs make you think and act positively.
Worldwide there are celebrations commemorating Bob Marley’s life taking place, and in Tanzania, “Bob Marley’s day” was marked by an event that took place at Coco Beach in Dar es Salaam.
Bob’s life and music have been a particular source of inspiration and pride for youngsters in the ghettos.
 Jumanne Mbepo
Jumanne Mbepo a young ghetto resident from Vingunguti, Dar es Salaam said, “When you listen to his song ‘Africa Unite’ Bob Marley says “how good and pleasant it would be before God and Man to see the unification of African”. Bob Marley also says, “Africa unite for the benefit of your people; unite for the benefit of the children”. These are strong messages of peace and unity. Bob Marley is a symbol for unity and peace in the ghettos. Today every person appears to know the music of Bob Marley, and as long as there is still injustice and inequality in our world his music lives on, and continues to teach.”
 Thomas Pius, aka Man Sniper
Thomas Pius (performing under the name “Man Sniper”), is an upcoming reggae artist residing in Mabibo ghetto. Thomas won the first prize of the Open Mic a competition for upcoming artists organised by Music Mayday Tanzania. He was the only reggae artist in the competition, and will be performing for the B-connected festival in Dar es Salaam.
Say’s Thomas, “Bob Marley is the reason that I am a reggae artist today. He inspires me because he treated people equally; the rich, the poor, the adults, the children, the black, the white and everyone. He always fought for the rights of society's oppressed. For us in the ghettos, his songs make us feel united and proud, his spirit still lives on today. Through his life and music I find Bob Marley to be a true ambassador of unity, equality, peace and love, and that is what the world needs today. Bob Marley has left a rich legacy that can’t be forgotten. “Redemption Song” can be considered a summation of Bob Marley, his life and his legacy. Marley sings, “Emancipate yourself from mental slavery, none but ourselves can free our minds”. This man was more than a musician”.
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