The Best East African Songs Right Now

March might as well be the start of 2026 with how East African artists are moving. We are finally starting to see the output from some of the region's biggest artists who were fairly quiet the last two months. And with lots of new projects in the pipeline, it's fascinating and exciting to see what will come out next quarter. 

But let's get back to March. This month, check out standout releases from I.K Clement, Mejja, Alikiba, Bien, 2twentysixx, and more in OkayAfrica’s best East African music list.

Bien x Alikiba — “Finale” (Kenya/Tanzania)

Bien is back with his first major song of the year. He taps Tanzania’s own Alikiba for “Finale,” stepping foot first into the zouk-inspired sound that has been taking over East African airwaves. It’s a sexy song without forcing it, and we’d expect nothing less from these two East African superstars. 

I.K. Clement — “Bella” ft. Bruce Melodie, Shaffy, Nel Ngabo & Mamba (Rwanda)

 With “Bella,” famed Rwandese producer and label head I.K. Clement gathers a stacked group of heavy hitters like Bruce Melodie, Shaffy, Nel Ngabo, and Mamba. You have to be a major player to pull such an esteemed lineup! Clement has been behind the scenes for over two decades and has chosen to now step forward with his Legacy album, a reminder of Clement’s long reach in shaping Rwandan music.

Al Xapo — “SNOKONOKO VI” ft. Joshua Baraka (South Africa/Uganda)

What makes “SNOKONOKO VI” stand out here is Joshua Baraka’s presence. The Ugandan artist brings a silky ease to Al Xapo’s amapiano production. Al Xapo may be the architect of the track’s popular “SNOKONOKO” world, but with this version, Baraka adds East African essence.

2wentysixx — “Wewe Ni Wangu” (Kenya)

 Although he has been pushing out music for some years, 2wentysixx has finally found a formula that works with the romantic “Wewe Ni Wangu.” With his deep voice, the Giveon comparison comes easily. And with this gorgeous music video to match, we’re excited to see how far the song climbs.

MATATA — “Nyongi” ft. Marioo (Kenya/Tanzania)

MATATA are always a good time, and “Nyongi” keeps that streak alive. Bringing in Marioo on the track makes it feel like a natural cross-border link-up. Following their album last year, I'm excited to see what 2026 brings for the group. This is just a lyric video, and I'm sure the official video will be another MATATA eye opener. 

Meron T — “stormy weather” (Eritrea/Ethiopia Diaspora)

Meron T brings a moody elegance to “stormy weather.” The independent London artist and DJ, who is of Ethiopian and Eritrean heritage, has built a sound rooted in R&B, neo-soul, and jazz, alongside UK club culture. The song is from her 2025 Palindrome EP. If you like what you hear, check out the rest of the project. 

Mejja & Scar Mkadinali — “Kale Ka Uoga” (Kenya)

Kenyan rapper and gengetone luminary Mejja is showcasing a new era with his new Mtoto wa Khadija album. We already got a preview of what to expect last month in his collab with Toxic Lyrikali. “Kale Ka Uoga” with Mkadinali is the perfect track to showcase his signature flow and witty lyrics. It's proof that Mejja still knows how to make a record hit with ease.

Toxic Lyrikali — “Jaa Jaa” (Kenya)

At this point, Toxic Lyrikali’s consistency is becoming part of his lore. Every month, there is a new song or collaboration. “Jaa Jaa” keeps his run going with the same intensity that made him hard to ignore in the first place. I think there’s something impressive about an artist who keeps showing up this often and still gives each release its own energy.

Diamond Platnumz — “Happy” (Tanzania)

Diamond Platnumz is in full celebration mode on “Happy.” It's such a joyful song! The video is part of the fun: colorful and playful as it moves through different eras of style and performance. Diamond is clearly enjoying every second of it.