Busara Press English

Busara Press English Message

2023-07-04T05:41:59Z

PRESS RELEASE

for publication 5 July 2023

Sauti za Busara: A New Chapter Begins

ZANZIBAR: Starting this month July, the Busara Promotions NGO and its globally renowned annual music festival will be under new leadership. Now aged 61, Yusuf Mahmoud, the founder CEO and Sauti za Busara festival director for the past twenty years says the time has arrived to hand over to younger leaders, with more stamina and fresh ideas. In the meantime, he says he is proud of the organisation’s many achievements.

“When we established Busara Promotions in 2003, one of our plans was to host an annual festival in Stone Town, showcasing the wealth and diversity of music from East Africa and the Swahili-speaking region. Little did we expect the festival to become a pan-African event that is now one of the most respected music events on the Continent, attracting thousands of visitors to Zanzibar every year in February,” Yusuf commented.

Yusuf will continue working with Busara, as a member of its governing Board of Trustees. He said that with core-funding support for the organisation assured for at least two more years from Fumba Town, a project by property developer CPS, this is a sensible time to handover. Starting this month Lorenz Herrmann, a German cultural entrepreneur, musician and arts manager who lived in Tanzania since 2016, will become Managing Director. To ensure continued success of the annual Sauti za Busara festival, he will work closely with Journey Ramadhan, a Tanzanian who worked as a manager with the event since 2009, and now takes the reins as Festival Director.

Left to right: Festival Director Journey Ramadhan, Former Festival Director and Managing Director of Busara Promotions Yusuf Mahmoud, and Lorenz Herrmann, Managing Director of Busara Promotions. Photo by Rashde Fidigo.

Commenting on his new appointment, Lorenz Herrmann, the incoming Managing Director said, “My strong background in arts management, combined with my passion for promoting cultural diversity and supporting artists and my strong network in the corporate and cultural sector gained from seven years’ working in Zanzibar, align perfectly with Busara Promotions and make me well-equipped to take on this role. I believe that music and arts have the power to bridge differences, foster understanding, and promote positive change in society. I am committed to upholding these values and driving the impact and professionalism of the festival to new heights.”

https://www.busaramusic.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Busara-New-Management-photo-by-Rashde-Fidigo-image00005.jpg

The 21^st Sauti za Busara edition, from 9 – 11 February 2024, is sponsored by Fumba Town - a project by CPS, Ignite Culture, Zanlink and more to be confirmed. African musicians interested to participate are invited to apply online via the festival website until 31^st July 2023.

More info: www.busaramusic.org

\\ENDS\\

Note to Editors: Download photos, logos and more at www.busaramusic.org/downloads

Busara Press English Message

2023-03-16T07:07:24Z

PRESS RELEASE

16th March 2023, for immediate release

Call for Artists: Sauti za Busara 2024

Zanzibar: As the dust settles and the rhythms quieten down from the 20th edition, preparations are already underway to bring back the heartbeat of Zanzibar’s Stone Town with Sauti za Busara 2024.

Celebrating live music from across Africa and beyond, Sauti za Busara proudly showcases the Continent’s cultural diversity, with its spotlight on women artists, young and emerging talents.

Sauti za Busara is acclaimed by BBC, CNN, OkayAfrica, Songlines magazine and others as ‘one of Africa’s best and most respected music events.’ The annual festival is organised by Busara Promotions, a non-governmental organisation registered in Zanzibar since 2003.

With special thanks to the main sponsor, Fumba Town - a project by CPS - the musical and cultural celebration that has ignited Stone Town for the past twenty years looks set to continue radiating its shine from Zanzibar to across Africa and beyond.

The 21st festival edition will take place during 9 - 11 February 2024 in the Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe), with live performances of unique and diverse African music styles, collaborations, technical workshops, networking for professionals and more.

The Call for Artists to apply for the 2024 edition is now open, until 31st July 2023.

Artists are invited for the opportunity to take to the stage and showcase their talent, culture and passion for music. Preference is given to music from the East African region; original sounds with cultural identity connected to Africa; young and emerging talents; women artists or groups led by women; music with messages that are positive and relevant to society; performers with energy and excitement on stage, and music that is performed ‘100% live!’

All artists interested to participate at Sauti za Busara 2024 are required to complete an online application form. Applicants must visit the Sauti za Busara website to submit applications as well as the required material. Such material includes the artist’s biography, latest audio releases, live performance video, promotional photos and links to artist’s website or social media pages. The deadline to complete applications is midnight (EAT) on 31st July 2023.

The festival selection committee will thoroughly review all applications during August and artists will be notified if they have been selected or not before September 2023. All selected artists are offered a modest honorarium, local transport and accommodation in Zanzibar, per-diems and visa costs, when required.

Organisers will announce the confirmed line-up for Sauti za Busara 2024 in October 2023.

For more information about the Call for Artists and link to the application form, visit https://www.busaramusic.org/call-for-artists-2024.

There is an abundance of musical talents across the continent yet to be discovered. Sauti za Busara continues to offer African artists platforms to exchange and share their stories, culture and music, whilst uniting people from across the world in celebration.

With a rich experience of 20 years to build from, the next edition of Sauti za Busara is sure to produce a new, elevated, yet familiarly breath-taking celebration. Now is the time for artists to get their applications in. Even if you are not an artist, save the dates in your calendar so as not to miss out on a truly pulsating three days of African music under African skies.

Information: www.busaramusic.org

<<<< [ENDS] >>>>

For hi-resolution photos, see www.busaramusic.org/downloads and www.busaramusic.org/downloads

Busara Press English Message

2023-02-14T02:09:08Z

Curtains roll down on Sauti za Busara 2023, dates announced for 2024

For immediate release

February 14, 2023

Zanzibar. The 20^th edition of the globally-acclaimed Sauti za Busara festival came to a thrilling crescendo on Sunday night after three days of powerful performances that breathed life into the Old Fort and the Stone Town neighbourhood.

The 2023 edition was held under the theme: Our Diversity, Our Wealth. In his remarks, festival director Yusuf Mahmoud said that the edition was a milestone given the humble beginnings and the several challenges their organisation had faced.

“But even when we were faced with the most difficult of situations where we almost had no option but to close, our team never gave up,” he said.

And with the assurance of core-funding from Fumba Town by CPS covering costs to run its office, the festival has already announced the next edition will take place between 9 - 11 February 2024.

Over three nights close to 30 groups thrilled audiences who had travelled from across the world to catch a glimpse of Africa’s musical diversity and talents.

For many of the revellers in attendance, it was their first time at the festival, whereas others had attended almost all editions for two decades, such as the celebrated artist Mwandale Mwanyekwa, aka Mama Afrika. Many audience members expressed surprise and wonder at the professionalism of the organisation, the high-quality sound and punctuality of all the shows.

Musicians hailed from Eastern, Western, Northern, Southern and Central African regions, for the first time since the outbreak of the pandemic that brought the world to its knees three years ago.

The rich line-up included Tanzanian artists such as Mzee wa Bwax, Damian Soul, Patricia Hillary, Zawose Reunion, Stone Town Rockerz, Uwaridi Female Band, Zan Ubuntu, Supa Kalulu, Zenji Boy na Wenzake, Waungwana Band and Culture Musical Club, Zanzibar’s traditional taarab orchestra that was founded in 1958.

As well as the ‘Movers & Shakers’ networking opportunities for music industry professionals, another element of this year’s festival that was highly praised was the ‘Swahili Encounters’ project, which brought together 11 musicians from Tanzania, Kenya, Zimbabwe, DRC and Sudan for four days of rehearsals and collaborations, ending with a spellbinding performance on Saturday night.

South African group BCUC, who were the undisputed heroes of Sauti za Busara 2019 with their powerful messages and explosive performances were invited to return for this special 20^th anniversary edition, where they gave another breath-taking show.

Female artists gave some of the strongest performances, including Asia Madani from Sudan, Nasibo from Zimbabwe, Naxx Bitota from DRC, Atse Tewodros Project from Ethiopia and Italy and Zily from Mayotte having their voices heard on two stages inside the Old Fort.

However, the bill was topped by Tiken Jah Fakoly, from Ivory Coast, who is widely known as Africa’s greatest reggae star. He brought the house down with a powerful performance that lasted almost two hours with a set that was full of conscious lyrics and positive messages, for Africa and the world.

The 20th Sauti za Busara festival was powered by Fumba Town - a project by CPS, Ignite Culture, CRDB Bank, Australian High Commission, Embassy of France, Institut Français, Kendwa Rocks, Mjini FM, ST Bongo TV, Serikali ya Mapinduzi ya Zanzibar, Adventure247 Marketing Agency, Zanzibar Serena Hotel, Coconut FM, Zanlink, Emerson Zanzibar, 2Tech Security and more.

NOTE TO EDITOR: For hi-res photos, see www.flickr.com/photos/sautizabusara2022/ and www.busaramusic.org/downloads/

Busara Press English Message

2023-02-11T04:50:43Z

Sauti za Busara’s vision lives on

Press release,

February 11

Unguja.

The 20^th edition of Sauti za Busara festival kicked off on Friday night with energetic performances from an array of artists bringing the Stone Town neighbourhood to near standstill with visitors pouring in from every part of the world.

On an evening that featured outstanding performances from many artists including Culture Musical Club, Naxx Bitota, Asia Madani, Mzee wa Bwax and Stone Town Rockerz, there was every sign the festival had come a long way.

Narrating the humble beginnings at the turn of the millennium, Busara Promotions’ Chairman and Zanzibar’s Minister for Tourism & Heritage Simai Mohammed Said, said the festival was born out of a desire to promote local music.

"It is rather nostalgic to remember how it all started. We were some few young people who were very enthusiastic about the state of our local music but we didn't know how to go about it. The first edition almost aborted," he said.

He added: “Today this festival has survived and grown to become one of the most respected in Africa. It is no longer just about us the founders, it is for everyone.”

He called on businesses to leverage on the Sauti za Busara brand which has transcended boundaries in the 20 years.

Speaking of the 20 years festival director Yusuf Mahmoud said “even though some of our original founders including Emerson Skeens, Ruge Mutahaba and Waziri Ally have passed on, the vision and purpose of our festival still stands. Each year in February, here in Stone Town, we show the world Africa’s music and culture is rich, vibrant, soulful, diverse, creative and forward-looking. We never strayed from our mission: to build skills and employment opportunities, to promote originality and excellence in Tanzanian music and to be in exchange with other regions of the African Continent and diaspora.”

He pointed out that through the years even with the global pandemic and ongoing financial challenges, the festival was only able to survive thanks to partnerships.

He particularly pointed out the core funding, covering office expenses through the year, were paid by the Norwegian Embassy for more than a decade, and these costs are now generously supported by Fumba Town, a project by CPS.

More info: www.busaramusic.org

The 20th Sauti za Busara festival, 10 - 12 February 2023 is powered by Fumba Town - a project by CPS, Ignite Culture, CRDB Bank, Australian High Commission, Embassy of France, Institut Français, Kendwa Rocks, Mjini FM, ST Bongo Tv, Serikali ya Mapinduzi ya Zanzibar, Adventure247 Marketing Agency, Zanzibar Serena Hotel, Coconut FM, Zanlink, Emerson Zanzibar, 2Tech Security, Embassy of Germany, and more.

NOTE TO EDITOR: For hi-res photos, see

https://www.flickr.com/photos/sautizabusara2022

Busara Press English Message

2023-02-10T06:36:00Z

Sauti za Busara 2023 kicks off today

February 10, 2023

For immediate release

Unguja. After 19 successful years, Sauti za Busara, one of Africa’s leading festivals, today Friday, February 10 kicks of its 20^th edition at the Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe) in Stone Town.

According to festival director, Yusuf Mahmoud, today marks the beginning of three days of a celebration of African music under the African stars with a wide array of artistes from across Africa gracing the two stages.

Apart from the two stages at the Old Fort, for the first time the festival will on Saturday, February 11, host a performance during the day at Fumba Town by CPS.

Speaking in Zanzibar, festival director Yusuf Mahmoud called on Tanzanians and visitors who have arrived from all corners of the world to join in numbers to witness and participate in this unique spectacle.

“Today, we kick off a unique and magical experience when Zanzibar hosts three days and nights of 100% live African music. We are especially proud of this year’s festival as it is our 20th, with a line up which is truly world-class with diverse music styles to satisfy audiences and backgrounds,” said Yusuf Mahmoud.

According to Mr Mahmoud, the two decades of song and dance has made Sauti za Busara one of the most dynamic African music festival that continued to operate during the difficult years of the pandemic.

“During the two decades we have demonstrated resilience and agility in its support for artists, whilst emphasizing the power of music to speak against certain ills in our society.”

Acknowledging the fact that Africa is such a big continent with different historical backgrounds but with a common aspirations, this year’s edition is special runs under the theme ‘Our Diversity, Our Wealth’.

Commenting on some of the great acts that have graced the Sauti za Busara, festival manager journey Ramadhani named some of the artistes whose performances have stood out over the two decades.

“We have had hundreds of artistes come here but musicians such as Zanzibar’s legend Bi Kidude, Neka (Nigeria), Bassekou Kouyate (Mali), Blitz the Ambassador (Ghana), Sarabi (Kenya), Samba Mapangala (DRC), Ba Cissokho (Guinea), Sholo Mwamba, Saida Karoli and Jaguar Music (Tanzania),” said Journey Ramadhani.

In a year that was preceded with uncertainties’ this year’s event wouldn’t have been possible without the core funding of Fumba Town by CPS who came to the rescue of the festival after the initial sponsors withdrew due to unforeseen circumstances.

Speaking at the event CPS, –Fumba Town CEO Sebastian Dietzold,said he was proud to be part of one of Africa's greatest musical extravaganzas which has over the years left lasting memories.

“In the same way that Sauti za Busara brings diverse people from diverse countries to celebrate diverse music from diverse cultures, Fumba Town also brings together people from different countries and cultures to purchase and enjoy affordable residential and holiday homes in Zanzibar,’ he noted.

This year’s edition also hosts Movers & Shakers (informal networking for professionals), Swahili Encounters (collaborations for local and visiting musicians), Busara Plus events at Fumba Town and other locations, and the prestigious Emerson Zanzibar Music Award, for upcoming local musicians.

More info: www.busaramusic.org

For reference:

Hi-res photos, logos and other downloads: https://www.flickr.com/photos/sautizabusara2022/ & https://www.busaramusic.org/downloads/

Busara Press English Message

2023-02-08T03:48:12Z

PRESS RELEASE

February 8, 2023

Why Sauti za Busara continues to be a unique festival

Unguja. The 20 the edition of the Sauti za Busara festival is set to kick off on Friday February 10, and Stone Town and its environs is bracing for three nights of African music under the African skies at the Old Fort ( Ngome Kongwe).

There is plenty of activity in the iconic venue with thousands of tickets already sold out to visitors that come from almost every corner of the globe.

“Twenty years can be such a long time but for us at Sauti za Busara and our partners we have stuck with the core values that gave birth to this festival in 2023 and in the process preserving our unique identity,” said Yusuf Mahmoud, the festival director.

Though most of its founders have died and others left to pursue other causes, the core values of promoting African music remains unchanged.

For the first time in a very long time the festival features a line-up of artistes from every part of the vast African Continent, from the Maghreb North to the far south, with most of the artistes performing for the first time in Zanzibar.

“Artiste selection has always been one of our major strengths over the years, artists whose music are truly African. This being our 20th we have made efforts to bring different musical tastes that represent the diversity of Africa. This is what Sauti za Busara has always been about,” said festival director.

This year’s festival is run under the theme ‘our diversity, our wealth’ (Tofauti Zetu Utajiri wetu).

“The line-up this year include Tiken Jah Fakoly, from Ivory Coast, who is widely known as Africa’s greatest reggae star, and BCUC, from Soweto South Africa, among other top acts that will grace the festival with their unique tunes.”

He added: Most of the musicians that come to these festivals are not those that you hear of on a daily basis but they have always brought the house down, leaving those in attendance in awe.

As a result of this diversity, the festival has become a melting pot of cultures where communities from every part of the world meet and share lasting memories.

“When people come to Sauti za Busara, they leave with memories from the performances and the island which last for many years and some have gone on to forge working relationships that continue to other aspects of their lives,” said Mr Mahmoud.

Though the festival has in recent years faced years all that has been achieved wouldn’t have been possible without the helping hand of the partners.

“We have had several partners who have kept the festival alive even when we contemplated to close our doors due to lack of funding, these include embassies, Hotels, Banks, Real estate developers, Banks, Telecom companies and the government”

More info: www.busaramusic.org

NOTE TO EDITOR: For hi-res photos, see www.busaramusic.org/downloads

Busara Press English Message

2023-01-31T01:32:09Z

PRESS RELEASE

31 January, 2023

Sauti za Busara after 20 Years is the Story of an Era

The 20^th edition of Sauti za Busara festival is set to rock the walls of the Old Fort in Zanzibar (Ngome Kongwe) for three nights from 10^th to 12^th February.

Globally acclaimed as one of Africa’s leading music festivals, this year celebrates twenty years of showcasing quality African music, a milestone that few other festivals on the Continent have achieved.

Despite many challenges since its humble beginnings in 2003, Sauti za Busara has remained one of the hottest dates on the cultural calendar that revellers look forward to every year.

“During the past two decades we have been blessed with a historic and unique location and an incredible line-up of artists that left everyone in attendance with lasting memories,” said Yusuf Mahmoud, the festival director.

According to Mr. Mahmoud, the festival has become a career launchpad that has catapulted many up-and-coming artists from the region to international touring opportunities.

“Many artists who performed on Sauti za Busara stages have gone on to be invited to other festivals across Africa and beyond, including Siti & The Band and Tausi Women’s Taarab from Zanzibar; Madalitso Band from Malawi, Sarabi from Kenya, Msafiri Zawose and Jagwa Music from Tanzania and many more,” he said.

Equally, the festival always endeavoured to remain fresh and original while celebrating the rich and diverse cultures that Africa has to offer. “The theme for this edition is Tofauti Zetu, Utajiri Wetu: Our Diversity is Our Wealth,” he continued. “When programming, we always ensure youth, women and marginalised artists are included. With unique performers representing North, South, East, West and Central Africa, as well as enjoying their favourite artists, we believe many attendees also share our excitement to discover more.“

Finally, he added: “This milestone is a testament to our exceptional team, many great artists, all the partners and sponsors, and passionate audiences who helped sustain and fuel our growth over the past 20 years.”

Performing on two stages in the Old Fort during 10 – 12 February, well-known and upcoming musicians include Tiken Jah Fakoly from Ivory Coast, widely known as Africa’s greatest reggae star. His lyrics call for African unity and its economic, political and cultural resurgence. People of all races feel a deep affinity with his music and the powerful messages he never fails to deliver. BCUC, from Soweto play a different style of music ‘for the people by the people with the people’, with explosive energy and rhythms, as witnessed by all who saw their shows at Sauti za Busara 2019.

This year’s singeli representative is Mzee wa Bwax, who also promises a show people will never forget. Other Tanzanian artists featured include the creative and charismatic singer-songwriter Damian Soul, Patricia Hillary, Zawose Reunion, Stone Town Rockerz, Culture Musical Club, Uwaridi Female Band, Zan Ubuntu, Zenji Boy na Wenzake, DCMA Young Stars, Waungwana Band, Supa Kalulu and Kikundi cha Idara ya Utamaduni.

Other international artists include Asia Madani (Sudan/Egypt), Nasibo (Zimbabwe), Zily (Mayotte), Naxx Bitota (DRC/Canada), Atse Tewodros Project (Ethiopia/Italy), Sana Cissokho (Senegal), Majestad Negra (Puerto Rico), Obert Dube (Zimbabwe), Kaloubadya (Reunion) and more.

More info: www.busaramusic.org

NOTE TO EDITOR: For hi-res photos, see www.busaramusic.org/downloads

Sauti za Busara 2023: The Countdown Is On!

2023-01-23T05:06:15Z

JAN 2023

Read in English / Kiswahili / français

Do not reply to this email. To get in touch please contact busara@PROTECTED, Please share with friends who may be interested.

Sauti za Busara 2023: The Countdown Is On!

Artists Line-Up: Sauti za Busara 2023

Sauti za Busara, Stone Town, Zanzibar, 10 – 12 Feb 2023

The countdown is on to the 20th edition of the world-famous Sauti za Busara festival. Excitement is rising in anticipation across Zanzibar and East Africa!

This year’s festival theme is Tofauti Zetu, Utajiri Wetu (Diversity is Our Wealth). Celebrating live music from across Africa and beyond, the spotlight shines brightly on women artists, young and emerging talents.

From Fri 10 to Sun 12 February, two stages inside the Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe) will feature thrilling and unique performances by TIKEN JAH FAKOLY (Côte d'Ivoire), BCUC (South Africa), DAMIAN SOUL (Tanzania), MZEE WA BWAX (Tanzania), ASIA MADANI (Sudan / Egypt), PATRICIA HILLARY (Tanzania), CULTURE MUSICAL CLUB (Zanzibar), NAXX BITOTA (DRC / Canada), SANA CISSOKHO (Senegal), NASIBO (Zimbabwe), ZAN UBUNTU (Zanzibar), ZAWOSE REUNION (Tanzania), STONE TOWN ROCKERZ (Zanzibar), ZILY (Mayotte), SWAHILI ENCOUNTERS (Zanzibar / Various), ATSE TEWODROS PROJECT (Ethiopia / Italy), MAJESTAD NEGRA (Puerto Rico), UWARIDI FEMALE BAND (Zanzibar), KALOUBADYA (Reunion), OBERT DUBE (Zimbabwe), ZENJI BOY NA WENZAKE (Zanzibar), WAUNGWANA BAND (Zanzibar), DCMA YOUNG STARS (Zanzibar), SUPA KALULU (Zanzibar / Various), KIKUNDI CHA IDARA YA UTAMADUNI (Zanzibar) and more.

Buy Tickets

BUY TICKETS NOW!

Advance tickets are available only until 31st January 2023, while stocks last, with special rates for all Tanzanian citizens, East African residents, and African passport holders.

Please consider buying VIP Passes to show your support - and get a free souvenir T-Shirt!

For ticket prices, terms and conditions, see www.busaramusic.org/tickets.

Busara Plus @Fumba Town

On Saturday 11th Feb from 10am – 4pm, Fumba Town - an eco-development project by CPS - who recently joined forces with Sauti za Busara, will host the Kwetu Kwenu Community Market with locally made organic produce, food, clothes, handcrafts and more. The event will feature free performances by Majestad Negra (Puerto Rico), Asia Madani (Sudan/Egypt) and Siti & the Band (Zanzibar). Free shuttles will be available every half-hour from/to Old Fort.

For more details and performance times, see https://www.busaramusic.org/events/

Movers & Shakers

Movers & Shakers is our daily forum for local and international artists, managers, promoters, media and other professionals to meet, network and exchange. Admission is free, but space is limited. If you are interested to participate, please register online at https://www.busaramusic.org/movers-shakers/

Partners & Sponsors

If you are interested to partner, see more at www.busaramusic.org/be-a-sponsor.

Hotels Special

Only days to go! Sauti za Busara has been a massive driver for tourism in Zanzibar. Every hotel and related service has benefited from this fantastic festival in past years and will benefit again in these coming weeks. Many supporters have already joined forces to make the festival possible, but we still need your help to push this over the finishing line! With a contribution of only 500 USD, you are showing great support and will receive a free festival pass for you or one of your favourite guests. Contribute 1,000 USD to have your logo displayed on big screens at the festival and receive two free tickets.

Pay here without hassle: PesaPal Link

Visitor Info

To plan your trip to Zanzibar, see our Visitors Info page at www.busaramusic.org/travel.

Here you will find useful tips concerning hotel bookings, visa and travel, vaccinations, health requirements, and more.

Contact Busara

www.busaramusic.org
busara@PROTECTED

Busara Promotions
P O Box 3635
Stone Town
Zanzibar, Tanzania

Find us off the airport road, Maisara
Tel: +255 242 232 423 or +255 773 822 294

Please share this with friends who may be interested. To subscribe or unsubscribe to this newsletter, simply type your email address in the box at www.busaramusic.org

Busara Press English Message

2022-11-21T06:39:56Z

PRESS RELEASE for publication 21 Nov 2022 Sauti za Busara unveils heavyweight line-up to celebrate its 20th anniversary Zanzibar. Organisers of Sauti za Busara, the globally renowned African music festival that takes place in Stone Town, Zanzibar each February, has announced the line-up for what promises to be a memorable twentieth edition in 2023. Featuring well-known and upcoming bands from all regions of the African Continent, the bill is topped by Tiken Jah Fakoly, from Ivory Coast, who is widely known as Africa’s greatest reggae star. In French, English, Dioula and Bambara, his lyrics speak of injustices suffered by Africans. His calls are for African unity and economic, political and cultural resurgence. With more than a dozen popular albums released since 1996, Tiken Jah Fakoly regularly fills football stadiums when he performs across Africa, Europe and beyond. BCUC, from Soweto South Africa, play music ‘for the people by the people with the people.’ BCUC were the undisputed heroes of Sauti za Busara in 2019, where their powerful messages and explosive performances were highly acclaimed by all in attendance. “We see ourselves as modern freedom fighters who have to tell the story of Soweto’s past, present and future to the world,” says ‘Jovi’ Nkosi, lead vocalist. This year’s singeli representative will be Mzee wa Bwax, who also promises a show people will never forget. Other Tanzanian artists to be featured include Patricia Hilary, Damian Soul, Zawose Reunion, Stone Town Rockerz, Uwaridi Female Band, Zan Ubuntu, Supa Kalulu, Zenji Boy na Wenzake, Waungwana Band and Culture Musical Club, Zanzibar’s traditional taarab orchestra that was founded in 1958. International highlights next February include Asia Madani, a Sudanese vocalist and percussionist whose music reflects pride in her heritage as a strong African woman, with a voice that is magical and fierce. Naxx Bitota from DRC blends Congolese rumba with mutuashi and other music styles with reggae, rumba and afropop. Sana Cissokho is a celebrated kora player from Senegal, who keeps the rich Mandinka cultural heritage alive. The Atse Tewodros Project forges collaborations between traditional Ethiopian and Italian musicians. Their repertoire includes songs from the Ethiopian Resistance, who fought against the Italians. As articulated by their bandleader Gabrielle Ghermandi, “Music gives volume to unexpressed voices. Music is a way of giving the vision of a possible or impossible future.” Sauti za Busara 2023 also promises outstanding performances from Majestad Negra, a dance troupe from Puerto Rico, Kaloubadya, a maloya group from Reunion, Nasibo, a singer-songwriter- mbira player from Zimbabwe, and Zily, another strong woman whose music is rooted in the cultural traditions of Mayotte. The theme for this year’s festival is Tofauti Zetu, Utajiri Wetu: Our Wealth is in Our Diversity. As Yusuf Mahmoud the festival director mentions, ‘our spotlight shines brightly on quality and diverse live music from across Africa, especially women musicians, young and emerging talents with unique sounds, powerful messages, excitement and energy on stage. Visitors to our website can already watch videos and learn about all the groups who will be perform next February at this special 20th anniversary edition.’ With uncertainty after years of donor support from the Norwegian Embassy expired in March 2022, then Blue Amber Resort cancelling their sponsor agreement only six months later, Busara Promotions, the NGO behind the festival, almost had to close its doors. As announced only a month ago, Fumba Town, a project by CPS came to the rescue with a sponsorship deal to cover most of the organisation’s office running costs until March 2025. Tobias Dietzold, CCO said on signing the agreement, "We are committed to keeping the Sauti za Busara festival robust and dynamic for the next few years as we enjoy our rich and diverse cultural heritage through live music. Through this partnership, we want to ensure that, at the minimum, the next three Busara festivals and the culture that surrounds them continue to thrive.” Sauti za Busara is hailed by BBC, CNN, OkayAfrica, Afropop Worldwide and others as ‘one of Africa’s best and most respected music events’. The 20th edition will take place in Stone Town, Zanzibar from 10 – 12 February 2023 with all-festival passes for Tanzanians costing only 20,000/- (three days), or 10,000/- for single day tickets. Sauti za Busara 2023 is powered by Fumba Town, a project by CPS; Ignite Culture, Kendwa Rocks, Zanlink, Institut Français, Australian High Commission, Emerson Zanzibar and more to be confirmed. More info: www.busaramusic.org \\ENDS\\ Note to Editors: Download Sauti za Busara hi-res photos and more at www.busaramusic.org/downloads

Busara Press English Message

2022-10-17T04:25:01Z

PRESS RELEASE

In the picture from left to right (stand) Baraka Strato Moshi (Marketing Excutive: Fumba Town), Clara Werra (Head of Legal: Fumba Town) Verena Knippel & Julia Bishop (Busara Board Member) seat from left, Tobias Dietzold (CCO Fumba Town) Hon Simai M Said (Minister for Tourism and Antiquity) Yusuf Mahmoud, CEO Busara Promotions) at today’s Press Conference at Fumba Town.

for publication 18^th Oct 2022

Fumba Town partners with Sauti za Busara

Zanzibar's new eco-town development Fumba Town - a project by property developer CPS - joins forces with Sauti za Busara and becomes a main sponsor for East Africa's most prominent international music festival.

"Busara Promotions is delighted to announce its core operational expenses for the next three years will largely be covered by CPS, and by that, Fumba Town is becoming a main festival partner and sponsor," Yusuf Mahmoud, CEO and Sauti za Busara festival director announced yesterday.

He added that Sauti za Busara would not be possible without partners and sponsors such as CPS, the company developing Fumba Town. This new strong partnership will ensure the festival continues to attract thousands of visitors to Zanzibar. The Norwegian Embassy previously supported the festival from 2009 until March 2022. When they withdrew earlier this year, the widely acclaimed African music festival was in danger of being discontinued.

This upcoming festival will be Sauti za Busara’s 20th-Anniversary edition. Except for 2016, the music event held at the historic Old Fort in UNESCO-protected Stone Town has never failed to be held, even during two years of the coronavirus crisis. It attracts up to 20,000 visitors during three to four days - a major booster for Zanzibar tourism for two decades. “The festival has been a vital part of Zanzibar's culture”, said Tobias Dietzold, Chief Commercial Officer of CPS: “It brings together people from all walks of life, promoting strong, peaceful and resilient communities.” Dietzold added: “This is what we stand for at Fumba Town and CPS, and therefore we are grateful to be able to contribute our part. The private sector must take responsibility to support initiatives like this.”

Among many colourful and diverse acts performing at Busara in recent years were Sampa The Great (Zambia), Nneka (Nigeria), BCUC (South Africa) and Blitz the Ambassador (Ghana/USA). Under the inspiring guidance of festival director and music lover Yusuf Mahmoud, the festival has focussed on women entertainers as well as young and upcoming acts. The cosmopolitan island of Zanzibar has a strong cultural connection. As the saying goes, “When the flute plays in Zanzibar, the whole of Africa dances.”

"We are committed to keeping the Sauti za Busara festival robust and dynamic for the next few years as we enjoy our rich and diverse cultural heritage through live music," CPS director Dietzold stressed. "Through this partnership, we want to ensure that, at the minimum, the next three Busara festivals and the culture that surrounds them continue to thrive. We want to establish a long–term relationship with the organisers," he added.

On his part, Zanzibar’s Minister for Tourism and Heritage, Simai Mohammed Said lauded both Sauti za Busara and Fumba Town for coming together to support the growth of tourism in the isles.

"The festival has, over the last 20 years, become one of the major attractions for visitors in our annual events calendar. We urge all government agencies and leaders, businesses, private and corporate donors to follow CPS' positive example to invest in celebrations of our arts and cultural heritage, which offer unique and unforgettable experiences for visitors to the region," the Minister of Tourism noted.

Sauti za Busara - Tanzania's most compelling music and cultural festival, brings together thousands of enthusiasts and performers from across Africa and the world to celebrate the richness and diversity of African music and heritage. The festival is staged during February each year and is organised by Busara Promotions, a non-governmental organisation (NGO). It ranks highly among African music festivals including the Festival in the Desert in Mali, which had to be discontinued because of political unrest, MTN Bushfire Festival in eSwatini and Cape Town International Jazz Festival in South Africa.

The 20th-anniversary edition of Sauti za Busara will take place from 10th to 12th February 2023. With its theme being Tofauti Zetu, Utajiri Wetu (Diversity is Our Wealth), the festival will reach out to a diverse crowd and feature world-class live music performances from Zanzibar, Tanzania, DRC, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, Mayotte and Reunion.

Sauti za Busara 2023 is powered by Fumba Town, a project by CPS; Ignite Culture, Kendwa Rocks, Zanlink, Institut Français, Australian High Commission, Emerson Zanzibar and more to be confirmed.

\\ENDS\\

About Fumba Town:

Fumba Town is the first sustainable, equitable housing development in East Africa and has been praised for its innovative approach to developing efficient, accessible buildings for the African residential market. Situated in Zanzibar, 20 minutes from the International Airport, Fumba Town is Tanzania's fastest-growing urban development. With a total investment volume of $400 million, CPS is developing thousands of residential units with eco-friendly and sustainable construction technologies supported by state-of-the-art infrastructure

www.fumba.town

About Busara:

Busara Promotions is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation (NGO) registered in Zanzibar since 2003, offering professional employment opportunities in an East African music industry that is connected and in exchange with other regions. Its flagship event is the Sauti za Busara festival, bringing people together in Stone Town, Zanzibar, each year to celebrate the richness and diversity of African music.

www.busaramusic.org

Note to Editors:

Download Sauti za Busara festival photos and more at www.busaramusic.org/downloads

Busara Press English Message

2022-02-15T04:21:29Z

Sauti za Busara reaches climax as government pledges support

For Immediate release

February 14, 2022

Zanzibar. The 19^th edition of the globally-acclaimed Sauti za Busarafestival came to a thrilling climax on Sunday night after three days of powerful performances that breathed life into the Old Fort and the Stone Town neighbourhood.

The 2022 edition was held under the theme: Amplifying Women’s Voices. In his opening remarks, festival director Yusuf Mahmoud noted in the hands of the right people, microphones are “our weapon to fight injustice, to build peace and unity across borders.”

He also stressed “Sauti za Busarais not only entertainment for tourists; this event is also an important platform to promote human rights, freedom of expression and respect for cultural diversity.”

Over three nights,twenty groups thrilled audiences that had travelled from across the world to catch a glimpse of Africa’s musical Diversity and talent.

For many of the performers and revellers in attendance, this was their first outing in almost two years due to the global pandemic which had brought international travel and economies to a standstill.

The artistes were mainly drawn from the Eastern and Southern Africa regions, given the complicated travel restrictions that certain parts of the world still face due to the pandemic.

The rich line-up of artistes featuredSiti & The Band, Sholo Mwamba, Vitali Maembe, Ben Pol, Zan Ubuntu, Wamwiduka Band, Nadi Ikhwan Safaa, Upendo Manase and Bahati Female Band representing Tanzania and Suzan Kerunen from Uganda.

Artists from Southern Africa includedSampaThe Great from Zambia, Msaki, Sjava and Nomfusifrom South Africa, Evans Pfumela Mapfumo and SylentNqo from Zimbabwe, Fanie Fayar from Congo Brazzaville, Sampa The Great from Zambia and Aleksand Saya from Reunion.

Speaking after her performance on Sunday, South Africa’s Msaki said it was her first time to be at the festival, even though she had applied many times to participate.

She noted Sauti za Busara was not only talking about gender imbalance in the music industry, but also taking positive action behind the scenes, to ensure women are included in stage and technical crews.

“I enjoyed the two nights that I performed here, it was thrilling to be out here with appreciative audiences after two difficult years when many countries were under lockdowns,” she said.

Tanzania’s RnB singer Ben Pol who was also performing for the first time said “I have met many people here and made friends from many countries across the world who identify with my music.”

Grace Mayala from Dar es Salaam who was attending for the first time said she was convinced by friends who have been attending the festival for several years.“I knew none of the artists on the lineuppreviously, but the music was hilarious especially the performance by Sholo Mwamba who made everyone dance,” she said.

However, two days after the festival director had said they were unable to announce the dates for next year’s event due to lack of funding commitments, Tanzania’s Minister of Youth, Culture, Arts and Sports Mohammed Mchengerwa pledged to support the festival.

“We shall do all that is possible to make sure this festival takes place again next year,” he said.

Over the years, the festival has hosted fringe activities alongside the main event. Local and visiting music professionals turned out in large numbers to participate in the daily Movers&Shakersmeet-and-greet sessions, where again the main focus was to amplify women’s voices.

Other fringe events includingthe Carnival Parade, Swahili Encountersmusic collaborations and additional two stages sadly had to be cancelled due to shortage of funding.

The 19^thSauti za Busara 2022 was powered by the Norwegian Embassy, the European Union, CRDB Bank, Zanlink, Emerson Zanzibar and others.

Note to Editor:

Hi-res photos from Sauti za Busara 2022 are available for download at https://www.flickr.com/photos/sautizabusara2022/

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Sauti za Busara 2023: The Countdown Is On!

NEWSLETTER

JAN 2023

Sauti za Busara 2023: The Countdown Is On!

Artists Line-Up: Sauti za Busara 2023

Sauti za Busara, Stone Town, Zanzibar, 10 – 12 Feb 2023

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