Sahra Halgan

Sahra Halgan, an iconic artist from Somaliland, earned her nickname “Halgan” during the 1980s war against Siad Barre’s regime, singing to heal and inspire fighters. Exiled in France for 20 years, she returned to music with the Sahra Halgan Trio, creating a raw, minimalist sound driven by her distinctive voice and political engagement. Since 2013, she has lived in Hargeisa, founding Hiddo Dhawr, a space for music and poetry. Her latest album, Hiddo Dhawr, fuses Somali musical traditions with roots rock, celebrating her people’s history, struggles, joy, and resilience.