Busara Xtra

Busara Xtra is a vibrant and dynamic series of fringe events presented across Zanzibar and Tanzania during the extended period surrounding the main Sauti za Busara festival. These community-driven activities—ranging from live music performances and cultural exhibitions to creative pop-ups, workshops, and artistic collaborations—offer visitors a deeper, more immersive journey into Zanzibar’s rich and diverse cultural landscape.

Past Busara Xtra activities have included open mic sessions, taarab orchestra rehearsals, dhow races, fashion shows, poetry competitions, arts exhibitions, street cinema, and energetic ngoma nights. Throughout this period, you are also guaranteed to discover an abundance of live music performances taking place in clubs, restaurants, and hotels across the island—ensuring that the spirit of Busara is felt everywhere.

With events happening a fortnight before the festival, throughout the festival week, and again in the fortnight after, there is always something inspiring, unexpected, and memorable unfolding across the islands.

In 2026, Sauti za Busara returns to Stone Town from 5–8 February 2026, under the uplifting theme:
“Let Them Shine”
Remaining true to its mission, the festival continues to champion 100% live African music, celebrating emerging talent, iconic artists, and the extraordinary cultural diversity of the African continent.