Renowned Kenyan musician Kasiva Mutua has made a grand musical statement with the release of her debut album, Desturi. The 11-track album, which dropped in February 2025, celebrates the richness of African heritage while exploring themes such as African identity, love, spirituality, and women’s rights. It’s a heartfelt project that blends tradition with modern influences, bringing to life the pulse of Africa.
Kasiva, known for her mastery of various African rhythms, has crafted an album that feels both timeless and progressive. The title Desturi, meaning “tradition” in Swahili, represents more than just a reflection on African customs it’s a journey of self-discovery and cultural evolution. As Kasiva herself describes, Desturi is a “birthing ceremony,” where she reveals her deepest conversations through music, blending the rhythm that has always guided her with her personal and collective African experiences.
The album’s lead single, “Twende Mbele,” carries a powerful message of unity and empowerment. The track, deeply rooted in African rhythms, is a call for Africans to continue moving forward in the face of adversity. Kasiva wrote the song as an anthem for social, economic, and cultural progress, encouraging the continent to strive for victory, peace, and prosperity. “Twende Mbele” serves as a motivational anthem amidst the challenges and unrest that have recently swept across parts of Africa.
Another highlight is “Ndikweteela,” the album’s fifth single, which blends Maloya music from La Réunion with coastal Kenyan Chakacha rhythms and Western Kenya’s Isukuti beats. The result is a vibrant fusion of cultural heritage and modern sound. It reflects Kasiva’s ability to bridge African traditions with contemporary music, offering a dynamic listening experience that is both innovative and deeply rooted in African identity.
Kasiva’s Desturi is not just an album, but a celebration of African life. With tracks like “Aoko,” a touching tribute to loss and remembrance, the album also taps into universal themes of healing and connection. “Aoko” provides a space for reflection, showcasing Kasiva’s lyrical depth and emotional honesty.
In Desturi, Kasiva Mutua redefines African music, combining traditional storytelling with modern production to create a sonic tapestry that feels both grounded and forward-thinking. This album is a testament to the enduring power of Africa’s cultural heartbeat and its ever-evolving creative spirit.
