The journey of Lioness Afreeka (born Hannah Wakesho Nyangala) is a masterclass in resilience. From her roots in Mombasa to the modern stages of Stockholm, her career spans over 20 years of survival, artistic evolution, and an unshakeable belief in the power of music.

From Soloist to Big Matata
Hannah’s talent was evident early on. In 1991, she was named the second best soloist at the Kenya National Drama Festivals. By 2000, she joined the prominent Kenyan group Big Matata. As a core member, she gained invaluable experience performing at major venues and touring internationally with the band.

The Italian Chapter: Strength in Adversity
In 2006, following a tour in Italy, Hannah made the life-altering decision to remain in Europe. Her 14 years in Italy were defined by immense personal strength. In 2008, while her daughter was undergoing a critical heart operation, Hannah performed a winning set at a local talent show before 5,000 people. During this chapter, she opened for global icons including Diamond Platnumz, Nameless, and reggae legend Mikal Rose.

A New Roar in Sweden
In 2020, amidst the global pandemic, she relocated to Stockholm, Sweden. She quickly became a staple of the local music scene, with breakthrough performances at the Västerås City Festival (2023) and the Future Echoes showcase (2024).

Her musical style is a rich fusion of:

• Reggae and Dancehall: The rhythmic backbone of her message.
• Afro-Pop: Connecting her Kenyan heritage with modern global trends.
• Cultural Advocacy: Hosting “Wasanii Ughaibuni,” a show dedicated to supporting diaspora artists.

A Living Legacy
Today, Lioness Afreeka is more than a performer; she is a symbol of endurance. With her 2024 EP “Proud Housekeeper” and 2025 releases like “Blaze It Op,” she continues to prove that her creative fire is brighter than ever. Her story is a reminder that a warrior’s spirit can turn any setback into a stepping stone for global stardom.

Featured Top Track: “Cry Revolution”

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