Sahra Halgan

Sahra Halgan Live at The Cornish Bank

Sahra Halgan is an iconic artist from Somaliland, a self-declared independent country in the Horn of Africa since 1991, though still unrecognised internationally. During the 1980s war against Siad Barré’s oppressive regime in Somalia, she earned the nickname ‘Halgan’ (the fighter) for her songs, which resonated deeply with people. As a nurse at the frontlines, she defied tribal and family conventions, singing to heal and encourage fighters.

In the early 2010s in Lyon, Sahra formed the Sahra Halgan Trio with Aymeric Krol on percussion (BKO) and Maël Salètes on electric guitar (Orchestre Tout Puissant Marcel Duchamp). The trio developed a raw, minimalist sound over two albums, powered by Sahra’s unique voice and her unwavering commitment to Somaliland’s recognition.

In 2013, Sahra returned to Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, to realise her dream of creating a space for live music and poetry called ‘Hiddo Dhawr’ (‘Preserve Culture’). The band’s new album shares this name, embodying their long friendship, travels, and exploration of Somali music. This third album places age-old music at the core of a distinctive modern sound, featuring traditional poetry, celebration and love songs, political demands, and Sahra’s voice conveying the history and soul of her people. Stripped-down instruments deliver earthy guitar riffs and sunny drum grooves, blending tradition and modernity with uncompromising simplicity.