Matimba, led by frontman Sabu Jiyana, is a Pan-African music ensemble dedicated to celebrating and educating audiences about the rich musical traditions of Africa. With 17 years of experience recording, performing, and touring globally, Jiyana coined the group’s signature style, “The Pan-African Sound,” as a way to showcase African leadership, culture, and creativity in the 21st century. Formed in 2017 after Jiyana completed his postgraduate studies at the University of Cape Town, Matimba fuses traditional and modern African practices, folk songs, church music, and contemporary cultural influences to create an eclectic, deeply immersive sound.
Matimba’s music features instruments from across the continent, including the mbira (Zimbabwe), nyungue-nyungue (Mozambique), akadinda (Uganda), uHadi (South Africa), and the talking drum (West Africa), complemented by bass, piano, and drums. Their performances range from intimate duets to 12-piece ensembles, appealing to audiences of all ages. In addition to live shows, Matimba offers workshops and masterclasses, providing a hands-on exploration of these long-forgotten instruments and their origins, fostering a deeper appreciation of Africa’s musical heritage.