WITH a dream to share his music with the world, he embarked on a courageous journey from Zimbabwe to South Africa during the peak of hyperinflation, armed with nothing but an unyielding passion for his craft.
Against all odds, he forged a new path in the vibrant city of Cape Town, where he single-handedly formed a band from scratch, pouring his heart and soul into every note.
Through tireless dedication and perseverance, he transformed his vision into a reality, rapidly gaining recognition and acclaim within the Mother City’s thriving music scene.
His unique sound and captivating stage presence soon earned him a devoted following, with fans drawn to his infectious energy and authentic artistry.
Today, Simba Saini (47), the frontman of Afristorm, stands as a testament to the power of determination and creativity, inspiring countless music lovers throughout Cape Town and beyond.
“I migrated to South Africa following a friend [Vusi Sibanda] in 2005. I went to Port Elizabeth, where I stayed for two years, but left because it was too slow and quiet, hence I moved to Cape Town,” Saini said.
“I had no instrument when I left Kwekwe. All I had was hope and determination. Personally, I am a drummer, so going to Cape Town was again due to my friends Hilton Marova, Antony Gasani [former Fishers of Men guitarist/ producer] and we formed Black Foot.
“We became the first Zimbabwean band in Cape Town and I played drums as well as being a vocalist.”
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After getting a feel and acclamatisation of the Mother City, Saini decided to start his own band, where he would have the freedom and liberty.
It was never easy to form a band as it was hard to come by guitarist, particularly in a foreign land.
“Forming a band was not difficult although I faced problems here and there. Things were not all that tough since we have some people who are so generous such that at times I would borrow a drum set to use when holding live shows free of charge.
“Instruments are cheap, but the most difficult issue was assembling a band as guitarists are hard to come by, especially in a foreign land.
“My main aim was to create something new away from home. I have released three albums so far Huruyadzo [2013], Misodzi Yaamai and Rwendo The Journey [2025]” he said.
As a person who played music with different bands such as Four Brothers, Vhijana Sounds, Makombe Brothers, Jabavu Drive, Summer Breeze, Vintage Band and many more, this makes my music universal as it targets everyone.
“My market target was not Zimbabweans as they did not understand and we played in venues where we rarely find them, but every time when we hold shows we recorded full house. We held joint shows with very big bands,” Saini explained to NewsDay Weekender Life & Style.
“I was just targeting the global market of which my music appeals to everyone. With time I began to see many Zimbabweans flocking to my shows in droves. I am also surprised to hear my music being played in Cape Town and on radios even back home.
“I have no specific genre, but I play whatever comes. Maybe this shaped me to be versatile because of where I came from since I worked with many artistes from Four Brothers [sungura], Jabavu Drive [jazz] and Jonathan Mugazi [gospel], just to mention a few.
“Every song that I play is totally different from the other.”
It’s now two decades since Saini went down south and with that experience he has managed to master the art of success of dos and don’ts making him one of the most popular in the Mother City.
He has learnt a lot especially working with South African artistes.
“In South Africa any kind of good music is appreciated because they have variety and they also respect good sound which they do not even know, that is why you see the likes of the late Oliver Mtukudzi did extremely well and he opened avenues for us.
“I have a great following here. With time fellow Zimbabweans began trooping to my shows.”
Saini added: “I have worked with artistes from different countries. On my first album [Huruyadzo], I worked with South Africans Muzobantu [bassist] and Marcus [keyboardist]. We produced a very good product. I am also expecting collaborations with a South African artiste.”
Although Saini has had challenges in his musical journey, he prefers to talk about the achievements as they out way problems.
“I have achieved a lot. I was one day invited to South Africa Broadcasting Corporation One television station just for an interview something that I never expected. I was awarded an award for being The Best Social Artist by the Zimbabwean community that motivates a lot.
“Music has changed my life for the better. I am living a respectable life. It has placed me on a good level since music is associated with poverty,” he said.
Saini is planning to comeback home in April and hold live shows countrywide.
Currently, he is riding high with his newly-released album Rwendo The Journey (2025).
Afristorm consist of Simba Saini (lead vocals and drums) Peter choreka (lead guitar), Charles Togarepo (bass), Gift Chitadu (keyboard), Ronnie Nachengwe (drums) and Precious Buranga Musarurwa (backing vocals) and Bernard Chatukuta (second keyboard and band engineer).
Saini’s journey is a remarkable tale of courage, resilience and determination, he has proved that with unwavering passion
and hard work, even the most improbable dreams can become a reality.
From the humblest of beginnings, with nothing but a burning desire to share his music with the world. Saini has risen to become a celebrated figure in Cape Town’s vibrant music scene.
