Sauti za Busara unveils exciting lineup for 22nd edition!

ONCE again, the Sauti za Busara Music Festival will bring Africa’s vibrant rhythms to Zanzibar with a lineup of more than 21 artists and bands in February next year.

Next year’s lineup will feature Christian Bella renowned for his unique sound in the Bongo Flava and Rumba genres, along with his band Malaika Band.

His captivating performances with the Malaika Band have made him a favourite among music lovers in the country.

Attendees can expect an electrifying experience as he takes the stage at the historic Old Fort in Stone Town, Unguja. The energy he brings will surely resonate with the packed crowd, making this celebration of talent an unforgettable occasion for both the artist and the audience.

Other than Christian Bella, the festival will bring other renowned and emerging bands from all over the African continent, led by prominent music artists such as Thandiswa (South Africa), Blinky Bill (Kenya), Bokani Dyer (South Africa), Frida Amani (Tanzania), Wura Samba (Nigeria), The Zawose Queens (Tanzania/UK), Kasiva Mutua (Kenya), Zanzibar Taarab Heritage Ensemble (Zanzibar), Leo Mkanyia & Swahili Blues (Tanzania, Boukouru (Rwanda), Tryphon Evarist (Zanzibar), Charles Obina (Uganda), Baba Kash (Tanzania) Anna Kattoa & Bantu Sound (Zanzibar).

Other artists participating includes; Tarabband (Sweden), Assa Matusse (Mozambique), Mumba Yachi (Congo), Nidhal Yahyaoui (Tunisia), Étinsel Maloya (Reunion), WD Abo (Sudan) B.Junior (Mayotte), uKhoiKhoi (South Africa), Joyce Babatunde (Cameroon) and more.

Explaining the artist line-up to Sunday News the festival director Journey Ramadhan stated, “The festival focuses on the quality and diversity of music from across Africa, particularly highlighting female musicians and emerging talents with unique voices, powerful messages and positive change for communities.

“For Zanzibaris, this festival is an opportunity to showcase their rich culture, strengthen national identity, promote peace and unity and inspire youth to take pride in their heritage. For Africans in general, it is a platform to celebrate the achievements of African arts and music, enhances relationships between nations and inspires positive change through art.”

ALSO READ: Sauti za Busara music festival: Celebrating African culture in Zanzibar

The festival is a celebration of Africa’s rich musical heritage, showcasing diverse genres and traditional sounds from across the continent.

It serves as a platform for cultural exchange and unites artists and audiences from around the world in a shared appreciation of African music.

By highlighting both established and emerging talent, Sauti za Busara plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting African cultural identity.

The festival will take place in Zanzibar from February 14th to 16th, 2025.

The Festival Director also highlighted, “Ticket prices for Tanzanians are set at 40,000/- for a three-day general ticket and 20,000/- for a single-day ticket. Early bird tickets can be purchased online through the Tukiio platform and on our Sauti za Busara website.”

“Sauti za Busara 2025 is supported by Fumba Town, a project by CPS; Zanlink and others to be confirmed later.”