Efitina Mbi Nnyo

Mataali is a devotional praise genre practiced by the Muslim community of Buganda (central Uganda). It is named after the small frame drum (the mataali) that leads the rhythm and accompanies responsorial singing. Typically performed in Luganda (with occasional Arabic religious phrases), mataali features tight call-and-response vocals, handclaps, and a steady drum ostinato. It is commonly heard in religious and community settings—during Ramadan nights, Eid celebrations, weddings, and other Muslim gatherings—where its texts praise Allah and the Prophet and encourage moral reflection and communal solidarity.