Tanzanian music star Diamond Platnumz has finally addressed a question many fans have asked for years. Despite his massive wealth, the singer still relies on rented aircraft for his international tours.
Most of these private jets do not come from his home country, but from neighbouring Kenya.
In a recent interview with Lil Ommy on Wasafi FM, the singer explained the logistical hurdles he faces. He also shared the painful details of a 2022 business deal that cost him billions of shillings.
The Nairobi Connection
Diamond is known for his high-end lifestyle and global business trips. However, when he needs to fly, the aircraft usually takes off from Nairobi first. The singer revealed that the current aviation market in Tanzania does not meet his specific needs for luxury travel.
This arrangement comes at a heavy price. Moving a jet from Kenya to Tanzania before even starting the main journey significantly increases his expenses. Diamond noted that a single return trip to a country like Nigeria can cost him nearly 400 million Tanzanian shillings, which is roughly $150,000.
The 4 Billion Shilling Scam
The singer’s reliance on rentals was not the original plan. In 2022, Diamond attempted to purchase his own fleet, including a Challenger 603 jet and a helicopter.The jet was valued at 4.2 million US dollars.
The deal required a 25 per cent down payment, amounting to over 1.1 million US dollars. However, the transaction turned into a nightmare. Diamond claims he was defrauded by individuals he trusted, including a person he identified as Mr T.
"The money I had given out reached about four billion. I was scammed. I was conned," the singer revealed. He explained that the Ministry of Home Affairs is aware of the situation. He also discovered that some members of his own management team were allegedly involved in the scheme.
For Diamond, owning a jet is not just about luxury. It is a calculated business move to protect his brand value. He believes that arriving in a private jet is essential for his international status.
"I saw that for the respect of my country, I cannot go to some countries using commercial flights. It reduces credibility. It reduces value," he said. He also plans to rent the aircraft to other wealthy individuals and promoters when he is not using it.
Future Aviation Plans
Despite the 4-billion-shilling loss, Diamond has not given up on his aviation dreams. He told listeners that the plan to own a jet and a helicopter is still very much alive.
