The Sauti za Busara festival, meaning “Sounds of Wisdom” in Swahili, is a prominent annual pan-African music event held every February in Stone Town. The festival has been considered one of Africa’s best and most respected music events for more than 20 years and attracts music fans from around the world.

The festival is a hub of cultural exchange, featuring three days of live music with 400+ artists, mainly from East Africa but also from across the continent, attracting a diverse crowd of 20,000 over the event duration.

Besides music, Sauti za Busara emphasizes skill-training for East African artists and technicians in areas like stage management and marketing. Collaborations with the Dhow Countries Music Academy yield performances showcased as Swahili Encounters on the main stage. Additional forums like Movers & Shakers, and Busara Xtra events extend networking and performance opportunities, enriching the festival experience.

Visitors are advised to book accommodations well in advance. For more information on this year’s festival and tickets visit the official organisers website here and reference the official Instagram page here.