Gar Gar

Gargar (formerly known as Bismillahi Gargar) is a group made up of Kenyan women of Somali origin from Garissa, North Eastern Kenya.The group’s name is derived from the Somali word ‘Gargar’ meaning ‘joining together’.

Gargar is part of the larger women’s self empowerment group from Garissa, called Bismillahi Gargar which was formed in 2003 with the purpose of reminding people of their traditional culture, and empower women in the community through music, basketry and weaving and other economical activities.

Gargar came to the limelight in 2008, as one of the 11 finalists in the Spotlight on Kenyan Music programme. Their AIDS awarness song titled ‘Aids Wadila’ (Aids Kills) was featured in the Spotlight on Kenyan Music Vol 4 compilation CD released in the same year.

In 2010, Gargar released their debut 10 track CD aptly titled 'Garissa Express' which was recorded and produced at Ketebul Music Studios over a two year period that saw the ladies shuttling back and forth between Garissa and Nairobi.

Their music features songs that are uniquely traditional and in keeping with Somali language and sounds, yet arranged and recorded with modern instrumentation and arrangements to keep it relevant to the present day. Since the launch of 'Garissa Express' CD, the profile of this once marginalized group has been elevated transforming Gargar into one of the most sought after bands in the East African festivals circuit. The ladies have maintained a busy schedule that has seen them perform at festivals and shows in Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, Harare, Bulawayo, Johannesburg and Nairobi.