The Project Kumbaya African Choir Reutlingen, founded and led by Dr Tatah, supported by brother OLA from 2007 to 2018, was an integration project aimed at fostering cultural exchange, social inclusion, and personal transformation through African music. The Project was more than just a musical ensemble—it became a movement that empowered individuals, particularly women, by introducing them to the African way of singing, building their confidence, and fostering a strong sense of community. The Project served as an integration platform where people from diverse backgrounds could come together to learn, sing, and experience the richness of African Spirituality and traditions.
Dr Tatah and brother OLA introduced participants to the unique rhythms, harmonies, and spiritual essence of African music, many members, who had never sung before, learned to sing and perform publicly, by embracing African musical traditions, the project provided a space for cultural exchange, allowing Germans and other nationalities to experience and appreciate African spirituality and creativity, many women who lacked confidence in their voices or stage presence found a new sense of purpose and self-worth through the project
The project had a profound impact on its members and the broader community as participants shared testimonies of how the project gave them a sense of belonging, purpose, and emotional healing. Some overcame self-doubt, while others found joy in expressing themselves musically, created a safe and welcoming environment where people, regardless of their backgrounds, could connect, share experiences, and support one another.
Through regular seminars, studies, workshops, and rehearsals, participants not only developed their musical skills but also deepened their knowledge and understanding of African Spirituality, the music project held numerous concerts, church services, and outreach events, allowing members to showcase their talents and inspire audiences with the powerful message of hope and unity, beyond music, the project organized excursions and social gatherings, strengthening bonds among participants and enhancing their overall cultural experience.
Dr Tatah’s leadership, left a lasting legacy in Reutlingen and beyond, through music, she transformed lives, nurtured talents, and built bridges between communities. Her projects not only helped individuals discover their artistic potential but also contributed to social cohesion, multicultural appreciation, and the empowerment of women through African Spirituality
Even after the project’s conclusion in 2018, its impact continues to resonate in the lives of those who participated and the community, many of whom have gone on to pursue musical careers, leadership roles, and community engagement initiatives inspired by their time in the project. The Kumbaya African choir stands as a testament to the power of music in bringing people together, breaking barriers, and changing lives. Under the visionary leadership of Dr Tatah and brother OLA, this project became a source of inspiration, proving that music is not only an art form but also a vehicle for empowerment, integration, and transformation.
