Sukuma-Land 5th Annual gathering in Oman
MUSCAT, OMAN 31 January 2026
The 5th Sukuma-Land Festival Gathering, held on Saturday , 31 January 2025 in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, stood as a powerful affirmation of shared history, blood relations, and enduring ties between Oman and Tanzania, brought to life through cultural diplomacy, leadership, and collective memory. Central to the formation and continuity of the Sukuma-Land Gathering is Mr. Nasser Khalfan Rahbi, Chairman of the Sukuma Land Organising Committee. Motivated by the deep ancestral and blood relations between Oman and Tanzania,
Mr. Rahbi began engaging governments, traditional leaders, and community structures to reconnect these historical bonds and give them contemporary meaning. His vision laid the foundation for Sukuma-Land as a platform where culture, diplomacy, and people-to-people relations converge.In his address during the programme, Mr. Rahbi reflected on the importance of remembering shared origins and transforming historical ties into living relationships. He emphasised that Sukuma-Land was established not merely as a festival, but as a gathering that restores dignity, identity, and unity among people whose histories are inseparable.
Working closely with Khalid Khalfan, Hamad Saif and the wider Sukuma-Land Organising Committee, Mr. Rahbi’s leadership ensured that the 5th edition of the gathering was hosted with cultural integrity and diplomatic significance. The event was streamed live on YouTube, allowing audiences across Africa and the diaspora to witness and participate in this milestone moment.
The programme opened with the Holly Quran, Prayer (Duaa) traditional Omani hospitality, and cultural performances, setting a tone of respect and shared values. The presence of His Highness Sayyid Mohammed Al Said and Sayyid Barghash Al Said and other senior members added distinction to the gathering and reflected the Sultanate of Oman’s recognition of the historical and cultural connections it shares with Tanzania and entire East Africa Countries.
Diplomatic relations were further highlighted through remarks by His Excellency, the Ambassador of the United Republic of Tanzania to the Sultanate of Oman, who reaffirmed the strong bilateral relationship between the two nations. He underscored the role of cultural platforms such as Sukuma-Land in strengthening mutual understanding and deepening people-to-people cooperation. A message on behalf of Her Excellency the President of the United Republic of Tanzania was delivered by Mkurugenzi Mr. Salvador Mbilinyi, representing both the Presidency and Tanzanian Diaspora Affairs. The address conveyed government support for initiatives that preserve cultural heritage, promote unity among Tanzanians abroad, and contribute positively to national development and international relations.
Economic and regional cooperation was addressed through reflections by Mr. Said Hilal Al Ismail, Chairman of the Oman–Tanzania Business Forum, who highlighted the importance of cultural trust and historical connection as foundations for sustainable business partnerships between Oman and East Africa.
Traditional leadership perspectives were shared by representatives of Umoja MaChifu Tanzania, including its Chairperson and Secretary, who spoke on the role of indigenous leadership in guiding communities and safeguarding cultural identity. Their contributions were complemented by reflections from the Chairperson of the Sukuma People in Mwanza, who traced the cultural roots of the Sukuma nation and reaffirmed the responsibility of both homeland and diaspora communities to preserve and transmit their heritage.
A defining moment of the gathering was the address by Princess Dr. Nikiwe Bam, Founder and Global President of Afrikan Indigenous Leaders and Chief of UMT. She spoke powerfully on African unity, shared migration histories, and the necessity of peace across the continent. Drawing attention to Tanzania’s diverse heritage, she noted that the country is home to communities whose origins extend into Southern Africa, underscoring Africa’s deep interconnectedness. She stated, “Africa cannot move forward if we continue to see ourselves as separate islands. Our histories are intertwined, and we must learn from one another if we are to build peace in all our countries.” She further emphasised that peace remains the foundation for dignity and development across the continent. Princess Dr. Nikiwe Bam also contributed artistically through a moving collaborative performance with Thandi Bushula, also known as ‘100’, which blended leadership, culture, and music into a powerful expression of unity.
The cultural programme was enriched by Sukuma songs performed by Hamed Zahrani Mashaka, Hilal Masoud (Malenga), and Ambusaidi, poetry by Nasser Habsi (Malenga Mtulivu), a traditional magic performance by Sleyem Al Khaldi, as well as Omani, Tanzanian, and South African dance presentations. These performances reflected the diversity and shared heritage celebrated throughout the gathering.
As the gathering concluded with exhibitions, dialogue, and communal engagement, the 5th Sukuma-Land Festival in Oman stood as a testament to the power of culture to reconnect histories, strengthen diplomatic relations, and foster unity and peace across nations. The success of the gathering was made possible through the collective efforts of the Sukuma Land Organising Committee, under the leadership of Mr. Nasser Khalfan Rahbi, alongside Umoja MaChifu Tanzania, Sukuma leadership in Mwanza, the Tanzania Embassy in Oman, the Oman–Tanzania Business Forum, the Tanzanian diaspora in Oman, artists, cultural practitioners, and partners who contributed to this historic event.
Issued by: Princess Dr. Nikiwe Bam (Mpondomise Kingdom, South Africa) Founder and Global President, Afrikan Indigenous Leaders and Chief of UMT
The Feasterville was well organized involved a lot of activities which are very touch to the both people East Africa as well Sultanate of Oman🇴🇲 and has add value and make more stronger the blood relation between East Africa people and Oman