For Immediate Release Jun 29, 2026 Zimbabwean singer-songwriter and performing arts educator Carmen is set to release her powerful new single, Aluta Continua, featuring internationally acclaimed vocalist and cultural activist Vusa Mkhaya, on 30 June 2026. A stirring meditation on African identity, unity and self-determination, Aluta Continua arrives at a time when conversations around migration, belonging, afrophobia and Pan-African solidarity have become increasingly urgent across the continent and throughout the diaspora. Rooted in the principles of Ubuntu and African Renaissance, the song challenges Africans everywhere to reflect on who they are, where they come from, and what collective future they wish to build. Written against the backdrop of rising afrophobic attacks across Africa and shaped by Carmen’s own experiences as an African artist and educator living and working internationally, Aluta Continua is both deeply personal and profoundly political. “My music has always been deeply rooted in the ideals of African Renaissance and Ubuntu,” says Carmen. “I firmly believe that Africa is a sleeping giant one that has been exploited, wounded, and too often had its story told through the lens of the oppressor rather than its own people.” “In light of the growing afrophobic attacks across the continent and the realization that, on the global stage, Africa often stands alone, I felt compelled to write Aluta Continua. The song is both a reminder and a call to action: a call to remember who we are, to awaken the spirits of our heroes and heroines, and to reconnect with what Africa was, is, and should become.” The collaboration with Vusa Mkhaya came about organically. After completing the composition, Carmen shared the song with Mkhaya, initially seeking artistic feedback and constructive criticism. Instead, the award-winning musician immediately connected with both its message and musical direction. “The themes of the song resonate strongly with the values and stories Vusa has communicated throughout his own artistic journey,” says Carmen. “I was deeply honoured when he expressed a desire to be part of the project. His contribution has enriched the song in ways I could not have imagined and has amplified its message of unity, resilience and African pride.” For Mkhaya, Aluta Continua represents a natural extension of the values that have shaped his celebrated career. “Aluta Continua fits naturally into my artistic journey because it builds on everything I’ve been advocating for through my music—African identity, pride, resilience and progress,” says Mkhaya. “The song is a reminder that the journey of self-determination and cultural empowerment is ongoing. It’s both a celebration of how far we’ve come and a call to keep pushing forward. In many ways, it captures the spirit that has always driven my work as an artist.” Beyond music, Carmen’s experiences as an international performing arts educator have also profoundly influenced the song’s message. “While many institutions proudly promote Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policies, the reality does not always match the rhetoric,” she explains. “As an African, there have been moments when I have had to work harder to prove my competence despite my qualifications and experience. There are also times when one must firmly assert their worth, knowledge and humanity in spaces where equality should already be assumed.” “These experiences reinforced my belief that Africa’s greatest strength lies in its ability to rely on itself, rise on its own terms, and become the global force it has the potential to be.” At its heart, Aluta Continua is a song of hope. It is an invitation for Africans across the continent and throughout the diaspora to rediscover unity, honour their shared humanity and imagine a future shaped by resilience, consciousness and collective strength. The song reminds listeners of the sacrifices made by heroes and heroines—both known and unknown who fought for dignity, freedom and identity. “Music has always been medicine. It is protest, healing and unity,” says Carmen. “Our hope is that this song will stir hearts, inspire reflection and encourage meaningful dialogue about our shared future as Africans.” As its title boldly declares: Aluta Continua the struggle continues, but so does the rise. About Carmen Born and raised in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Carmen is a singer-songwriter, performing artist and international performing arts educator whose work is grounded in the ideals of Ubuntu, African Renaissance and social consciousness. A passionate advocate for the transformative power of the arts, she has collaborated with acclaimed Zimbabwean musicians including Busi Ncube, Andy Brown, Willis Wataffi Afrika and Adam Chisvo. A graduate of Midlands State University and former member of the ensemble African Destiny, Carmen uses her music to explore themes of identity, healing, belonging and African pride. Her second album, Listen, reflects her commitment to using art as a vehicle for dialogue, reflection and social change. About Vusa Mkhaya Vusa Mkhaya is an internationally acclaimed Zimbabwean singer, songwriter, producer and cultural activist best known as a founding member of the award-winning vocal trio Insingizi. Based in Vienna, Austria, Mkhaya has built a distinguished career spanning more than three decades, performing in over 50 countries worldwide. Renowned for his rich vocals and unwavering advocacy for Ubuntu, African identity and cultural heritage, Mkhaya’s acclaimed body of work includes The Spirit of Ubuntu, Vocalism, UManyanyatha and Khanyisa. He has received numerous accolades for his contribution to music and culture, including the National Arts Merit Award (NAMA) for Outstanding Artist in the Diaspora.
