Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – The Tanzanian entertainment industry was shaken once again as actress Joyce Mbaga, famously known by her stage name Nicole Berry, broke her silence today, March 17, 2025. The 32-year-old actress has been at the center of controversy following allegations of running a fraudulent savings scheme that reportedly swindled millions of shillings from unsuspecting citizens.
Taking to her Instagram, Nicole issued a passionate statement that aimed to set the record straight and dispel rumors about her alleged financial misconduct. Her post was both a heartfelt plea and a fierce clapback at her critics.
“I wish to express my sincere gratitude to everyone with good intentions towards me,” she began. “However, I urge everyone to disregard any reports or claims of financial contributions being collected on my behalf. I have family, friends, and close allies who are more than capable of handling any situation. Let no one deceive the public into believing that I am in need of donations.”
Nicole also assured her followers that she is doing well despite the legal turmoil. “Everything is fine, and I am glowing brighter than ever before,” she said, adding humorously, “Even the chicken and fried snacks from jail have added to my radiance!”
She warned the public against interfering with her ongoing court case, asserting that justice is being served and funds are being returned to those affected. Her closing remarks, however, were a fiery challenge to her detractors:
“To anyone who betrayed me, whether fake friends, deceitful artists, or those mimicking my voice – ALL of you will hear from me soon. For now, let me sip on my tea and enjoy the peace I deserve!”
The Legal Battle
Nicole Berry’s social media comeback coincides with her ongoing trial at the Kinondoni Resident Magistrate’s Court in Dar es Salaam. Together with her co-accused, Rehema Mahanhu (31), Nicole is facing three counts of serious financial crimes, including operating a criminal network and conducting unauthorized financial transactions.
Senior Government Prosecutor Rhoda Maingu presented the charges before Resident Magistrate Ramadhani Rugemalira. According to the prosecution, Nicole and Rehema are accused of collecting over 185.5 million Tanzanian shillings from the public through savings schemes, operating without proper licensing from the Bank of Tanzania (BoT).
The allegations stem from activities that reportedly took place between July 2024 and March 2025 in the Dar es Salaam region.
Charge One: The duo is accused of running a criminal network aimed at obtaining financial gain through unlawful activities within the community.
Charge Two: Between July 2024 and March 2025, they allegedly collected 185.5 million Tanzanian shillings from the public without possessing a license to operate as financial service providers.
Charge Three: They are accused of running an unauthorized payment system during the same period, in direct violation of regulations set by the BoT.
Remand and Bail Conditions
Despite their efforts, Nicole and Rehema remain in remand custody after failing to meet the stringent bail requirements. The court mandated that each accused person secure two guarantors and deposit either 46.3 million Tanzanian shillings in cash or a non-movable property of equivalent value.
The case has been adjourned until March 24, 2025, with both defendants now awaiting their next court appearance.