Sahra Halgan

Sahra Halgan, Somaliland’s iconic singer, freedom fighter, and cultural activist, returns with third album Hiddo Dhawr, a culmination of enduring friendship and global exploration Seamlessly blending age-old Somali traditions with abrasive guitar riffs, sun-drenched percussion, and vintage keys, the album offers a fresh take on the music of Somaliland, the independent but not internationally recognized state in the Horn of Africa Hiddo Dhawr, which translates to “promote culture”, is also the name of Halgan’s new album, an electrifying blend of Somali melodies, distorted guitar riffs, thumping West African percussion, and Halgan’s unique, warbling vocals. Halgan chose this name for the album to honour the women of Somaliland: “Everything you see in Hiddo Dhawr [the venue] was made by women. I want to show the world how strong Somaliland’s women are” explains Halgan, who has played an active role in Somaliland’s struggle for independence and recognition.