Sauti za Busara names Mnazi Mmoja as its new venue

ZANZIBAR: ONE of Zanzibar’s flagship cultural events, the Sauti za Busara music festival, has announced a change of venue ahead of its 23rd edition, citing rising demand, growing audiences and ongoing renovations at its traditional home in the Old Fort.

Organisers Busara Promotions confirmed that the internationally renowned festival, often dubbed the “Friendliest Festival on Planet Earth”, will now take place at the Mnazi Mmoja Grounds in Stone Town next month, running from the 5th to the 8th.”

The move comes just weeks before the four-day event, which is expected to attract record numbers of local and international visitors.

According to the organisers, the new site offers significantly more space and improved facilities.

Planned features include an expanded outdoor market for Zanzibari products, food and music, additional room for food vendors, dedicated areas for interactive experiences, a larger backstage for artists and a networking zone for music professionals.

The venue also promises easier movement between stages, improved access for pedestrians, public transport and vehicles, as well as natural shade from mature trees.

Mnazi Mmoja is located around a 15-minute walk from Forodhani Gardens and the festival’s former location.

The announcement follows strong ticket sales, with Early Bird tickets already sold out and Advance Tickets selling rapidly.

Festival Director Journey Ramadhan attributed the surge in interest partly to the headline appearance of Malian music legend Salif Keita.

“The fact that the 23rd edition is featuring the living legend Salif Keita has given a massive boost to ticket sales and hotel reservations,” Ramadhan said.

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He added; “We anticipated this growth and have been working closely with the Government of Zanzibar and relevant authorities to ensure the festival can be safely relocated to accommodate the increased demand.”

More than 400 musicians from 21 countries across Africa and beyond are scheduled to perform, reinforcing the festival’s long-standing focus on unity, diversity and cultural exchange.

Alongside the music programme, the festival will once again host its “Inspire to Lead!” activations, delivered in partnership with the Government of Zanzibar, UN Women and the European Union.

Busara Promotions’ programmes officer, Zakialulu Mdemu, said the festival would help amplify initiatives such as the Gender Transformative Action Programme, including campaigns known locally as Tokomeza Vitendo vya Ukatili dhidi ya Wanawake na Watoto and Rijali Anajali.

“These initiatives aim to raise awareness of gender equality and efforts to end violence against women and children, while promoting women’s leadership in urban Zanzibar.”

She added that the activities will combine cultural performances with public information on One-Stop Gender Centres run by the Zanzibar government to support victims of domestic, sexual and emotional abuse.