Ali Kiba’s ‘Mnyama’ roars with Simba pride

DAR ES SALAAM: BONGO Flava star, Ali Saleh Kiba, popularly known as Ali Kiba, has revealed his track Mnyama—a rousing anthem was crafted to capture the enduring spirit of Simba SC and resonate with its fans for generations.

The song, performed at the official launch of Simba’s new kits in Dar es Salaam over the weekend, has always sparked excitement across streaming platforms and social media.

“I wanted something timeless. If I had mentioned players’ names, the song would have quickly lost relevance,” Kiba explained.

“From the start, I told myself it had to be a piece that leaves a permanent mark.”
The title Mnyama—Swahili for “The Beast,” a nickname for Simba SC—embodies the club’s storied legacy and reputation as a powerhouse in Tanzanian and African football.

“The song aligns with Simba’s status,” he said, “as a dominant force in both domestic and international football.”
Within 24 hours of release, the track had drawn nearly half a million views on YouTube and over 4,700 comments, surpassing levels of fan engagement recorded by Simba, a 2020 tribute song by fellow artist Diamond Platnumz, which attracted just over two million views and 4,186 comments in two years.

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Ali Kiba’s official switch to Simba SC from archrivals Yanga was confirmed on August 3, 2023, marking a significant moment in the artist’s journey and for Tanzanian football fandom.

Just days later, on August 6, 2023, he was unveiled as the headline performer for Simba Day at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, where he electrified thousands of fans.

The ‘Mnyama’ debut now adds to his growing influence as both an entertainer and a cultural ambassador for the club.

This is not Kiba’s first brush with Simba. Two years ago, he headlined the opening of the Africa Football League (AFL) at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium during the Simba against Al Ahly clash, which ended in a thrilling 2–2 draw.

Now, ‘Mnyama’ positions him not only as a musical powerhouse but as an artist leaving an indelible mark on the Simba brand.