Sauti Za Busara: African Music Under African Skies

MUMBA YACHI – CONGO

Mumbi Yachi, a visionary artist born in the Democratic Republic of Congo and based in Zambia, captivates with his unique style known as “Yachi Music.” A blend of African authenticity with global influences, his music is both soulful and thought-provoking, with poetic lyrics and a powerful performance presence. Deeply committed to Pan-Africanism, Yachi’s work goes beyond entertainment—it educates, inspires, and fosters healing, sparking meaningful conversations across cultures and resonating profoundly with the mind, body, and soul.

BOUKURU – RWANDA

Boukuru, a celebrated Rwandan singer-songwriter, is known for her unique fusion of traditional sounds and classic soul. She’s performed on major stages, including the International European Festival, Marafiki Music Festival, Giants of Africa, and Trace Eastern African Awards. Her vibrant blend of heritage and contemporary style has made her a standout in East African music.

ZANZIBAR TAARAB HERITAGE ENSEMBLE – ZANZIBAR

Founded in 2023, the Zanzibar Taarab Heritage Ensemble is a powerful collective of masters dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich legacy of Taarab music from Zanzibar. Featuring legendary artists like Professor Mohammed Ilyas, Taimour Rukuni Taha, and Bi Maryam Hamdan, among others, the ensemble embodies the soul of Taarab with their unparalleled artistry and experience. Their music bridges generations, inspiring both reverence for tradition and the future of this iconic genre, standing as a testament to the timeless power of Taarab.

UKHOIKHOI – SOUTH AFRICA

uKhoiKhoi is a dynamic live looping duo that celebrates multilingual expressions through a fusion of opera, indigenous chants, and praise poetry. With a blend of traditional and contemporary instruments, they create a unique sound they refer to as “indigenous electro,” reflecting their rich cultural heritage. The name uKhoiKhoi pays homage to their shared KhoiSan ancestry, one of the original tribes of Southern Africa. As they continue to innovate and inspire, uKhoiKhoi remains dedicated to honoring their roots while pushing the boundaries of contemporary sound.

CHARLES OBINA – UGANDA

Charles Obina is a contemporary musician celebrated for his innovative fusion of traditional instruments and modern sounds that reflect the rich cultural heritage of his homeland, the Northern region of Uganda among the Acholi tribe. With over a decade of experience playing the Adungu—a traditional stringed instrument—Charles has transformed it from a single octave into a three-octave marvel, creating a lush, acoustic sound that beautifully complements Western musical elements. He has proudly represented Uganda on various local and international stages, including the Uganda Tourism Expo in Russia (2023), the Bayimba International Festival, the Pearl Rhythm Festival (2024), as well as events such as Uganda’s independence celebration in Kenya and an opening act for Tunisian artist Smadj in Kampala.

JOYCE BABATUNDE – CAMEROON

Driven by her philosophy of “The Masterpiece Mentality,” Joyce believes in the unique power of individuality as a catalyst for positive change.

Joyce Babatunde, a trailblazing multidisciplinary artist from Cameroon, fuses Soul, Rap, Jazz, and Spoken Word with the rich rhythms and chants of her indigenous heritage. Her music is a powerful expression of individuality and cultural pride, inspiring others to embrace their uniqueness and contribute authentically to their communities. With each performance, Babatunde not only entertains but ignites a movement of self-expression and social change.

WD ABO – SUDAN

Mohammed Adam, a gifted singer, songwriter, and cultural activist from Sudan, uses music to unite and inspire. Born in Umm Durman, his journey began in childhood, discovering music’s power to foster peace, unity, and preserve cultural heritage. Through his artistry, Adam continues to champion Sudan’s rich traditions, promoting understanding and healing with every note.

LEO MKANYIA & THE SWAHILI BLUES – TANZANIA

Leo Mkanyia, a gifted composer and multi-instrumentalist, began his musical journey at age eight, and has since become a powerful voice in African music. As the leader of Swahili Blues Band, he has graced global stages, including the London African Music Festival, Sauti za Busara, and Bayimba International Festival. Through his songwriting, which tackles themes of history, culture, and social issues, Leo captivates audiences with his soulful sound and powerful storytelling, sharing his rich heritage and inspiring change.