The Soul of Salaka: Meet the Dynamic Duo Rocking Ghanaian Rhythms Worldwide
Deep in the heartbeat of Ghana, amidst the pulse of drums and the sway of traditional dance, a rhythm was born that would rock the world. Enter Tuza Afutu and Alima—two fierce talents who’ve transformed Salaka Dance Ensemble into a powerhouse of African rhythm, energy, and passion. Their journey from the streets of Ghana to global stages is as electrifying as their performances, full of resilience, grit, and an unbreakable love for Ghanaian music and culture.
Tuza Afutu: Drumming His Way to Stardom
Tuza’s story is the stuff of legend. Growing up where drums were luxuries, his ingenuity turned everyday objects—pots, pans, jerry cans—into instruments, sparking a passion that would make him one of the world’s foremost Ghanaian drummers. “We had no money for drums, so we made our own,” he says, his voice brimming with pride. With this humble start, Tuza’s journey defied the odds, proving that when your soul beats to the rhythm, nothing can stop you.
Today, as the Creative Director of African Beat, Tuza channels that same fearless energy into each performance, making his mark from school stages to corporate high-rises across Australia. Every beat he plays is an invitation for audiences to feel the fire and joy of African drumming—it’s infectious, electrifying, and unforgettable.
Alima: A Fireball of Dance and Energy
And then there’s Alima, the dancing powerhouse whose passion was ignited at age 12. She’s taken the stage around the world, from Ghana to the World Children’s Festival, blending traditional dance with acrobatics and an energy that lights up every stage. When she joined Salaka Ensemble in 2005, she didn’t just bring talent—she brought fire. As the ensemble’s lead female dancer, Alima’s movements are fierce, her energy contagious, and her presence magnetic. Each performance is a visceral celebration of African culture and dance that leaves audiences exhilarated and inspired.
Salaka Ensemble: A Dynamic Celebration of African Heritage
Together, Tuza and Alima are the driving force of Salaka Ensemble, a celebration of Ghanaian music, dance, and culture that transcends borders. With a shared passion for storytelling and cultural preservation, they channel the vibrant spirit of African heritage into every drumbeat and dance step. Their performances don’t just entertain—they create an experience, a journey into the soul of Ghana that resonates deeply with anyone lucky enough to witness it.
From Ghana to the World
The rise of Tuza and Alima, from humble beginnings to the world stage, isn’t just inspiring—it’s iconic. They’re living proof of the power of passion, resilience, and a deep-rooted connection to one’s culture. Their story reminds us that music and dance have the power to break down barriers, to unite and ignite. Salaka Ensemble is more than a group; it’s a movement, a pulse that beats in time with the world, spreading the rhythm of Africa wherever it goes.
If you’re ready to be mesmerized, moved, and reminded of the pure joy of rhythm, Salaka Dance Ensemble is an experience you can’t afford to miss.