KASIVA MUTUA

East Africa’s most electrifying percussionist continues to redefine the soundscape of contemporary African music. Rooted in Kenya’s traditions and inspired by her grandmother’s folktales, Kasiva has blazed a trail through the male-dominated world of drumming with an unshakable spirit.

Her percussive storytelling blends traditional African rhythms, vocals, and guitar with modern genres, creating a sonic experience that is both rooted in tradition and forward-thinking. Known for her powerful stage presence, boundless energy, and joy, Kasiva draws audiences into an immersive experience, inviting them not just to listen, but to reconnect with themselves.

In 2025, she released her highly anticipated debut album, *DESTURI*—a bold expansion of her artistry that embraces guitar, songwriting, and music production. The album is a deep exploration of roots and identity, inspiring a generation to reconnect with culture while pushing creative boundaries.

Touring internationally, she blends traditional African beats with modern genres such as jazz, hip-hop, reggae, and funk, elevating the role of African women in music. Kasiva stands out in the male-dominated field of percussion, collaborating on projects like The Nile Project and Coke Studio Africa.

She co-founded MOTRAMUSIC, an all-female drumming collective in Kenya, which has evolved from a percussion project into a sisterhood where young women bond through rhythm. With performances at prestigious festivals such as Global Fest and the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, Kasiva has shared the stage with icons like Kirk Whalum and the late Oliver Mtukudzi, showcasing her talents worldwide.

As a TED Global Fellow and an OkayAfrica 100 Woman, she launched “Vibe na Queen” during the pandemic, uniting female musicians in Kenya. Her 2022 percussion EP, “NGEWA,” served as a narrative of her global experiences and cultural immersion, heralding a fusion of sound elements and storytelling.