The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has charged Tanzanian musician Sefu Shabani Ramadhan, popularly known as Matonya, with one count of rape.

Appearing before Chief Magistrate Robinson Ondiek at the Shanzu Law Court, on Thursday, April 9, 2026, the 43-year-old musician denied the charge brought against him.

The court heard that the alleged offence occurred on 7th April 2026, at an apartment in Nyali Sub-County, Mombasa County.

Prosecution told court the accused is alleged to have unlawfully committed the act against an adult woman, prompting his arrest.

Principal Prosecution Counsel Keya Ombele urged the court to impose strict bond terms, noting that the accused is a foreign national without a fixed residence in Kenya.

“The stringent terms, are necessary to ensure he remains within the court’s jurisdiction throughout the trial,” Ms. Ombele said.

Following the submissions, the court granted Sefu Shabani bond of Ksh 500,000 and ordered him to deposit his Tanzanian passport.

He was also barred him from leaving the jurisdiction without prior court approval. Additionally, immigration authorities were directed to place an alert at border points.

Matonya is a Tanzanian Bongo Flava musician who rose to fame in the late 2000s with romantic, storytelling-style songs that gained popularity across East Africa.

One of his most notable tracks is Vaileti, released in 2009 as part of the album Siamini. The song centers on love and betrayal, telling a relatable story of heartbreak in relationships, a theme that resonated strongly with fans and helped cement his place in the regional music scene.