Sierra Leonean Recording Artist · Songwriter · Cultural Ambassador
Zua is an award-winning Sierra Leonean recording artist, songwriter, entrepreneur, and cultural ambassador whose music connects the rich sounds of his homeland with a contemporary global vision.
Known for his infectious energy, distinctive style, and conscious storytelling, Zua draws from the traditional rhythms of Gumbay, Bubu, and Milo Jazz, blending them with Afrobeats, Afro-Pop, Reggae, and Dancehall. His music carries messages of love, perseverance, gratitude, cultural pride, and social consciousness, connecting with listeners across Sierra Leone and the global diaspora.
His 2024 album Triumph marked a defining chapter in his evolution as an artist — a statement of growth, resilience, and renewed creative vision. His single "Grace" earned Best Music Video at the 2025 Sierra Leone DJs Union Awards, where Zua was also named Best Diaspora Artist. In 2026, "Grace" continued its recognition, winning Best Music Video of the Year at the Sierra Leone Music Awards.
Formerly signed to BSK MUSIC, Zua continues his journey as an independent artist, creating new music, building cultural bridges, and representing Sierra Leone on the world stage.
Beyond music, he is the founder of Gem101 Entertainment and the creative force behind Zua Nation Wear, a fashion and lifestyle brand connecting his creativity, Sierra Leonean roots, and global community. He is also the creator of Father's Day Out with Zua, an annual celebration of fatherhood, culture, and community.
Rooted in Sierra Leone. Built for the world. This is Zua.
Best Music Video of the Year
"Grace" — Sierra Leone Music Awards
Best Diaspora Artist
Sierra Leone DJs Union Awards
Best Music Video
"Grace" — Sierra Leone DJs Union Awards
Album Release — Triumph
A defining chapter in his artistic evolution
Founder — Gem101 Entertainment
Independent creative & entertainment company
Creator — Zua Nation Wear
Fashion & lifestyle brand connecting culture with global style
Creator — Father's Day Out With Zua
Annual celebration of fatherhood, culture & community
Road Safety Ambassador
Toured all 12 districts of Sierra Leone, recorded 5 awareness songs
Born Ibrahim Sorie Kamara in Freetown, Sierra Leone, Zua developed a passion for music and creative expression from an early age. Growing up surrounded by Sierra Leone's rich culture, rhythms, and traditions shaped the artist and storyteller he would become.
He began his professional musical journey in 2000 as one half of the duo Black Snoop & Papayzua, recording songs including All Night Party and Me Love You featuring M2 — establishing an early foundation in Sierra Leonean music.
As his journey evolved, Zua stepped forward independently as Uncle Papayzua, developing his own sound and identity. While studying for his BSc. in Business Administration at UNIMTECH, he launched his debut solo album, Focus — a turning point in his career.
His second album featured the hit single "Sweet Me" featuring Nega Don, further cementing his presence in the Sierra Leonean music scene. Alongside music, he served as a Road Safety Ambassador, touring all 12 districts of Sierra Leone and founding the Miss Road Safety Beauty Pageant.
Years of growth, experience in the diaspora, and a broader international perspective led to a defining transformation — the rebranding from Uncle Papayzua to simply ZUA. More than a name change, it represented artistic maturity, reinvention, and a clear global vision.
The Zua era brought a more refined, boundary-crossing sound rooted in Sierra Leonean tradition while speaking to the world. Triumph (2024) became the statement of this evolution, followed by Grace — a song that earned him his most celebrated recognition to date.