"The word ‘Wamwiduka’ is derived from the Safwa ethnic community of Tanzania’s Mbeya region, meaning ‘something of value’ – but Wamwiduka Band exceed this definition. Four boys who came together on the streets of Mbeya, Wamwiduka perform with a selection of homemade instruments: the Babatone, an instrument pioneered by the band leader’s father that is very popular in Mbeya and Malawi, the four-string guitar known locally as the nyina, and various forms of percussion.
Their art has transformed from an escape from the frustrations of unemployment to a resonant project that seemingly embodies past, present, and future of a uniquely Tanzanian sound. Wamwiduka’s live performance particularly uplifts all who are fortunate enough experience it, instilling a sense of urgency in audiences to stop, reflect, and listen."