From Tutu Puoane to Fatoumata Diawara: Female stars steal the show at CTIJF 2026

From top South African stars to sensational global talents, female musicians lit up day two of the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on Saturday night.

One of the most notable sets came from Mzansi’s very own Tutu Puoane, whose performance on the Rosies stage marked a full-circle moment for the jazz star, who previously performed at “Africa’s Grandest Gathering” in 2008.

Born in Pretoria and based in Antwerp, Belgium, the jazz vocalist’s return to South African stages was a magical and symbolic occasion, filling the room with emotional depth and a stirring sound.

Her versatile voice and charismatic stage presence resonated with the crowd, who were deeply engaged in Puoane’s intimate, warm, and authoritative set. Her soul-stirring music, which fuses African, European, and American jazz traditions, bridged the gap between a concert and a communal gathering.

Meanwhile, fellow South African jazz vocalist and songwriter Giuliette Price also left a memorable mark at the CTIJF, electrifying the Moses stage on Saturday night. Her sound, described as a tender and delicate combination of jazz and poetry, moved the crowd as they connected with her exploration of identity and heritage.

Then there was India’s Varijashree, who performed on the Rosies stage on Saturday night. The Grammy-nominated vocalist, flautist, and composer captivated the audience with her groundbreaking fusion of South Indian Carnatic classical traditions and global jazz improvisation.

American singer and songwriter Raveena also brought the heat to the CTIJF, performing on the Moses stage. Her trademark silky, airy, and gentle voice was on full display, creating a calm and healing atmosphere.

Also performing on Saturday night was Fatoumata Diawara, the Grammy-nominated Malian singer-songwriter, guitarist, and actress widely considered one of the most vital voices in modern African music. Her work is celebrated for its “Afrofuturistic” sound, blending ancestral Malian traditions with global contemporary genres, and her performance drew a mix of deep emotional reflection and high-energy audience participation.

These female superstars followed other leading ladies who took to the CTIJF stage on Friday night. This includes “Aweh” hitmaker lordkez (real name Keziah Zoë Meyers), emerging talent Rorisang Sechele, who brought her powerful project, “The Seed”, to life during the show, as well as British alto saxophonist, composer, and bandleader Jasmine Myra.