Bongo Flava Star Matonya Charged with Rape in Mombasa Court

Bongo Flava Star Matonya Faces Rape Charges in Mombasa

Mombasa, Kenya – April 10, 2026 — Authorities in Mombasa have charged Tanzanian Bongo Flava artist Sefu Shabani Ramadhan, known as Matonya, with rape. The “Vaileti” singer appeared before the Shanzu Law Courts on Thursday following his arrest earlier this week.

Details of the Allegations

Court documents state that the incident occurred on April 7, 2026, at an apartment in Nyali Sub-County. Prosecutors allege that Matonya intentionally engaged in non-consensual intercourse with an adult woman, identified as J.G. The state claims the musician used force during the act.

Beyond the primary rape charge, Matonya faces an alternative charge of committing an indecent act. This secondary count involves allegations of inappropriate touching without the victim’s consent.

Court Proceedings and Plea

The 43-year-old musician denied all charges before Chief Magistrate Robinson Ondiek. After the “Anita” hitmaker entered his plea, the court granted him a bond of KSh 500,000 with one Kenyan surety of the same amount.

To secure his release, the court imposed several strict conditions:

• Matonya must deposit his passport with the court.

• He cannot leave Kenya without explicit judicial approval.

• Immigration authorities will monitor his travel status.

Current Case Status

The court released Matonya from custody while investigators gather further evidence. As a major figure in the East African music scene, his legal troubles have drawn significant public attention in both Kenya and Tanzania.

The court will set future hearing dates soon. Under Kenyan law, Matonya remains innocent until the prosecution proves him guilty.