Tanzanian Bongo Flava Artiste Matonya Charged with Rape in Mombasa
Popular Tanzanian musician Matonya, whose real name is Sefu Shabani Ramadhan, was on Thursday charged with rape before a court in Shanzu, Mombasa County.
The Bongo Flava artist, known for hits such as ‘Vaileti’ and ‘Anita’, appeared in court where prosecutors accused him of intentionally and unlawfully having sex with a woman identified as J.G. using force. The alleged incident took place on April 7, 2026, at Josy Joka Apartments in Nyali Sub-County.
Matonya denied the charge in court. After listening to both sides, the magistrate granted him bond of Ksh 500,000 with one Kenyan surety of the same amount. The court also ordered him to surrender his passport and barred him from leaving the court’s area without permission. Immigration authorities were alerted to ensure he does not leave the country without court approval.
The case has attracted attention because of Matonya’s popularity across East Africa. The court will continue hearing the matter on a date to be fixed later. Both the complainant and the accused now await the full court process to determine the truth of the allegations.
