Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma [email protected]
SINGER-songwriter and performing arts educator Carmen is set to release a new single, Aluta Continua, on Tuesday, teaming up with internationally acclaimed vocalist and cultural activist Vusa Mkhaya for a stirring call to African unity, identity and self-determination.
Arriving at a time when conversations around migration, belonging, afrophobia and Pan-African solidarity continue to dominate discourse across the continent and in the diaspora, Aluta Continua seeks to inspire reflection on Africa’s past, present and future.
Rooted in the principles of Ubuntu and the African Renaissance, the song challenges Africans to reconnect with their identity and embrace a collective vision for the continent.
Carmen said: “My music has always been deeply rooted in the ideals of African Renaissance and Ubuntu. 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 realisation 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 Mkhaya came naturally after Carmen sought his opinion on the song.
“After completing the composition, I shared the song with Vusa, 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. I was 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 amplified its message of unity, resilience and African pride,” she said.
Beyond its musical appeal, Aluta Continua is also a response to challenges Carmen has encountered while working abroad. She said despite the increasing emphasis on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policies in many institutions, the lived experiences of Africans often tell a different story.
“As an African, there’ve been moments when I’ve 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. Music has always been medicine. Our hope is that this song will stir hearts, inspire reflection and encourage meaningful dialogue about our shared future as Africans,” said Carmen.
For Mkhaya, whose career has long been anchored in promoting African culture, identity and empowerment, the song aligns perfectly with his artistic mission.
“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.
“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,” said Mkhaya.
