Think Global: Women Of Africa

Think Global: Women Of Africa pays homage to some of the greatest voices to have emerged from this part of the world. From the feisty vocals of Oumou Sangare and the captivating sound of Sally Nyolo, to the unforgettable voice of Miriam Makeba and a track from Saba’s debut album Jidka, here’s what the women of Africa have to say! 

A legend in South Africa and beyond, the voice of Miriam Makeba became a soundtrack to the winds of change blowing through Africa in the 1960s. ‘Pata Pata’, sung in Xhosa, is one of the songs that have made her a household name. The Malian singer Oumou Sangare has a soaring voice, an unforgettable stage presence and she is also a fearless spokesperson for women’s rights. Also from Mali, Rokia Traore is one of the most exciting female artists to have emerged from West Africa in recent years. ‘M’Bifo’ is taken from her most recent album.

Vakoka brings together thirteen of Madagascar’s most talented musicians and ‘L’Era’ is a contribution from Hanitra Rasoanaivo, lead singer of the critically-acclaimed band Tarika, Madagascar’s most famous export. Mariem Hassan is the representative ‘voice’ of the Saharawis from Western Sahara, although this track portrays her in a more personal light.

When Sally Nyolo returned to her native Cameroon, she began working on an album which paid tribute to the artists who have preserved Cameroonian music. This song is the opening track from that project, Studio Cameroon. ‘Hanfarkaan’ is from Saba’s brand new Riverboat Records album. Born to an Ethiopian mother and an Italian father, this album is Saba’s attempt to tell her story and express her multi-layered identity.

Think Global: Women Of Africa also features the talents of the Queen of Congolese rumba, Mbilia Bel, the Malian griotte Kandia Kouyate and the South African urban roots singer Busi Mhlongo, amongst others. This is an uplifting tribute to some of the incredible women who have made their mark both at home and internationally.

Think Global: Women Of Africa has been produced in collaboration with Oxfam, with sales from the album raising money for the independent organisation and registered charity. They work at all levels from global to local, including international governments, global institutions as well as with local communities and individuals to ensure that everyone’s rights are fulfilled and protected.

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