Makamandaa: The Mombasa trio taking Kenya’s hip-hop scene by storm
By William Muthama, July 11, 2026In a country where Nairobi has long been viewed as the centre of Kenya’s music industry, Mombasa’s Makamandaa is proving that the Coast has a powerful voice in hip-hop.
The trio, made up of Kamanda Bushi, Kamanda Pedeshee and Kamanda Brown, hails from Junda Hood in Kisauni, Mombasa, where they developed their sound through local freestyles, street battles and community performances.
Also known as Double Gang, Makamandaa has built its identity around raw street energy, coastal Swahili flavour and hard-hitting rap sounds.
Their music blends drill, dancehall, and Swahili storytelling, reflecting the experiences, struggles and ambitions of young people from the Coast.
The group’s name represents their commanding presence in the music scene, with the three artistes positioning themselves as leaders of a new coastal sound.
Their YouTube journey began with their first official music release, “Mjue Mwanao,” which dropped in June 2025 and introduced fans to their unique style and lyrical approach.
Viral music wave
Although Makamandaa has not yet fully captured the attention of Nairobi’s mainstream audience, the group has already built a strong following among coastal natives who connect with their music and message.
Their online numbers show the impact they are making, with several songs becoming major hits. Their track “ANITA” has surpassed two million views on YouTube, while “Maisha ya Ukweli” has crossed the 1.7 million views mark.
Tracks such as “EAST” and “MUNGU ANAKUONA” have expanded their audience, showcasing their ability to combine motivational messages with street storytelling.
The group is also known for the phrase “Sana Shambaa”, which has become closely associated with their brand and is widely used by fans during performances and online conversations.
Support behind rise
In a past interview, Makamandaa credited fast-rising Coastal artiste Emkay 64 for playing a key role in their journey. The group described him as one of the first people to believe in their talent and encourage them to continue pursuing music.
They praised Emkay 64 for offering guidance, support and mentorship as they navigated Kenya’s competitive music industry, describing him as a mentor who helped strengthen their confidence and push their craft further.