Sauti za Busara is an annual pan-African music festival organised by Busara Promotions (a Zanzibar-registered non-profit NGO). The festival is positioned as a celebration of cultural diversity, live African music, and cross-regional cultural exchange.
Key Event Information
- Edition:23rd Edition
- Dates:5-8 February 2026 (four days & nights)
- Location: Mnazi Mmoja Grounds, Stone Town, Zanzibar (Tanzania)
- Times:4:00 pm -1:30 am
- Theme:“Equal Voice, One Rhythm (highlighting unity, diversity, and artistic equality)
What to Expect at Sauti za Busara 2026
- Multiple music stages operate simultaneously, allowing visitors to move freely and choose the performances they want to watch.
- African musicians and bands perform live, representing different countries, cultures, and music traditions from across the continent.
- Music styles range from traditional African rhythms to modern Afro-fusion, folk, and contemporary sounds, giving audiences a wide range of exposure.
- Performances are designed to be interactive, with audiences encouraged to dance, sing along, and engage with the music.
- The festival atmosphere is open and social, bringing together locals, artists, and international travellers in one shared space.
- Alongside music, the venue features food and drink stalls, creating a full evening cultural experience.
- Music-industry talks and networking sessions take place during the festival, supporting artists and fostering cultural exchange.
Tickets and Passes
Advance: All Festival 4-Day Pass (Available Until 31 January 2026)
VIP Grand Stand: TZS 590,000
VIP Tanzanian Citizens: TZS 295,000
Regular (International): TZS 430,000
African Passports: TZS 215,000
East Africa Residents: TZS 215,000
Tanzanian Citizens: TZS 35,000
Door Tickets: All Festival 4-Day Pass (Available Until February)
VIP Grand Stand: TZS 680,000
VIP Tanzanian Citizens: TZS 340,000
Regular (International): TZS 490,000
African Passports: TZS 245,000
East Africa Residents: TZS 245,000
Tanzanian Citizens: TZS 45,000
Children under 12: FREE
Day Ticket: One Day (Available Until February)
VIP Grand Stand: TZS 350,000
VIP Tanzanian Citizens: TZS 175,000
Regular (International): TZS 260,000
African Passports: TZS 130,000
East Africa Residents: TZS 130,000
Tanzanian Citizens: TZS 20,000
Children under 12: FREE
Note: For information related to refunds, cancellations, and ticketing terms, please visit the official Sauti za Busara ticket policy page.
Entry Requirements for Sauti za Busara
- A valid festival ticket is mandatory for entry (Day Pass or 4-Day Pass).
- Visitors must present a valid photo ID when entering the venue.
- Discounted ticket holders must carry supporting identification:
- African Passport holders: Valid African passport
- East Africa Residents: Valid residence permit
- Tanzanian Citizens: National ID, Zanzibar ID, Tanzanian passport, or voter ID
- Children under 12 years are allowed free entry but must be accompanied by an adult (maximum two children per adult).
- Entry is subject to security screening at the venue gates.
- Re-entry rules apply based on the ticket type and the day of access.
Travel Entry Requirement for International Visitors
International travellers must meet Tanzania entry requirements, including:
- A valid passport
- A Tanzania eVisa or Visa, if required for their nationality
Visitors are advised to complete visa arrangements before travelling to Zanzibar.
Cashless Payment System at Sauti za Busara
Sauti za Busara operates a cashless payment system within the festival venue. Visitors are provided with a festival wristband or card, depending on the ticket type, for all on-site purchases, including food and beverages. Cash payments are generally not accepted at vendor points inside the venue.
Wristbands or cards can be topped up at designated stations within the festival area using accepted payment methods. Attendees are advised to keep their wristband or card secure throughout the event.
Content Disclaimer: Entry rules and identification requirements are enforced by festival organisers. Visitors should verify the latest entry guidelines through official Sauti za Busara announcements before attending.
