This is the 2020-version of the KWANZAA Song from South Afrika. We recognise Kwanzaa as a synthesis of Afrika’s traditional harvest ceremonies. The song was composed by Baba Buntu in 2005, highlighting the 7 Principles of KWANZAA – ‘Nguzo Saba’ (conceptualised by Dr Maulana Karenga / The US Foundation in 1966). This is the second recorded version (the first version was recorded in 2015), bringing together a collective of young artists based in Johannesburg. The lyrics are in kiSwahili and English, with references to first fruits festivals observed in Southern, Eastern and Western Afrika.

Vocals: Boipelo Matlhare, Thabang Mohale, Yonela Boya and Baba Buntu
Children’s choir: Biko, Manna, Basetsana, Lethu, Fundo, Khumo, Melu and Sana

Written and composed by: Baba Buntu, Thembi Mntambo/Nia Mo, PitsiRa The First and Yonela Boya.
Chorus lyrics are taken from “Nguzo Saba”, authored by Dr Maulana Karenga
Produced by: Baba Buntu
Executive production assistance: Mangala Mangala, Baba Bheki Khoza and Dumang Matlhape. 
Recorded, mixed and mastered at: O.twins Recording Studios, Johannesburg
Sponsored by: Menjik Group - menjik.co.za/
Publised by: eBukhosini Solutions - ebukhosinisolutions.co.za

NGUZO SABA (Kwanzaa Song 2020 version) feat. Boipelo, Thabang and Yonela + Children’s Choir

Pan-Afrikan community teacher, spirited speaker and decolonial practitioner. Mentor of many young women and men. Frequently engages in flirtatious (and polygamous) relationships with beats of Afrika, jazz-vibes, hip-hop gutters and soulful skylines.