I’m Mary Anibal

Mary Anibal is an award-winning Zimbabwean singer, songwriter, mbira player, activist and music educator whose work draws deeply from the cultural traditions of Zimbabwe and the broader African continent. Renowned for her distinctive Afro-fusion sound, she blends folk and traditional music with contemporary influences, captivating audiences through her powerful vocals, expressive mbira performances, and dynamic stage presence. Her artistry reflects a deep commitment to preserving African musical heritage while reimagining it for modern audiences.

Beyond performance, Mary is a dedicated advocate for women’s rights, using her music and public engagement to promote social justice and empowerment. Her work seeks to inspire young women to pursue creative and professional opportunities while challenging gender-based inequalities. Alongside her artistic career, Mary is an active music educator, teaching at local schools in Zimbabwe where she mentors emerging musicians and contributes to arts education at the grassroots level. She is also the founder of Nyimbo zaKwatu, a cultural platform dedicated to showcasing authentic African music, dances and storytelling from Zimbabwe and across the continent.

Mary’s professional career began in 2016 as a session mbira player collaborating with various artists. A major turning point came in 2017 when she performed at the Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA) alongside Soa Roy (Madagascar) and Forest Jam, bringing her work to wider national attention. In 2023, she received the Zimbabwe Music Award for Best Traditional (Chinyakare/Chimurenga), recognising her artistic excellence and contribution to traditional music.

Her international profile expanded significantly in August 2023 when she headlined the Habari Africa Festival in Toronto, Canada. She has since performed at major festivals including Sauti Za Busara in Zanzibar and the MASA Festival in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, and in 2025 she headlined Festival Abidjan Capital du Jazz. The same year, Mary toured Europe, performing in Germany, Switzerland, and France, further establishing her reputation as a global ambassador for Zimbabwean music.

In September 2024, Mary released her debut album Maria Wenyu, followed by the single “Bhonzo” in April 2025. Through her music, education, and cultural advocacy, Mary Anibal continues to celebrate African heritage while shaping a powerful and socially conscious artistic legacy.