Unguja. Busara Promotions has entered into a strategic partnership with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to advance gender equality and strengthen the visibility of African artists in the global music scene.
The initiative, unveiled in Zanzibar this month, comes at a time when East Africa’s music industry is rapidly growing but still grapples with challenges in management, international exposure, and professional development.
Women and underrepresented groups remain particularly disadvantaged, facing limited access to opportunities both on stage and behind the scenes.
Festival Director for Sauti za Busara, Journey Ramadhan, said the collaboration aims to create a more inclusive and professional music sector.
“Music is not only entertainment, it is a powerful tool for cultural expression, social change, and economic growth. Through this partnership with UNESCO, we aim to strengthen the skills of musicians and managers while creating a more inclusive music industry where gender equality is prioritized, and all artists and female technical crew can reach their full potential,” he said.
Key objectives of the partnership include professional training and capacity-building for musicians and managers, increasing artists’ international exposure, and fostering safe, inclusive spaces for women and marginalized voices in the industry.
A major component of the project is the rollout of a music management training module covering branding, artist management, and the preparation of electronic press kits (EPKs). At least 100 music professionals will benefit from the training, with outstanding participants advancing to mentorship opportunities through the WOMEX Academy.
The programme also prioritises women in technical and production roles, supports female-led bands, and provides platforms to amplify underrepresented voices. Workshops, collaborative projects, and media campaigns will be used to ensure long-term impact.
“As organisers of Sauti za Busara, we believe true progress in the music industry comes when artists are empowered to see their work as valuable, sustainable, and professional. By investing in skills development and creating more opportunities for female technical crew, we are not only breaking barriers but also building a stronger, more inclusive creative economy that benefits everyone,” added Mr Ramadhan.
The initiative reflects Busara Promotions’ long-standing mission to support Africa’s cultural diversity and aligns with UNESCO’s global mandate to foster cultural expression, equality, and sustainable creative industries.
