Afro-Iraqi musician and former refugee talks life journey, music
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
On Aug. 15, at 8 p.m., Moneka Arabic Jazz will bring their unique blend of “Funky Arab Music” to Parc Quintal in Sherbrooke as part of the highly anticipated Festival des Traditions du Monde. Led by Ahmed Moneka, the Toronto-based band fuses African grooves with Arab melodies, creating a vibrant and multicultural soundscape that resonates with themes of nostalgia, tolerance, and universal community.
In an interview with The Record on August 12, Moneka shared the rich details of his life journey, which deeply influences his music. Moneka described his background as a mix of Iraqi, African, and English influences. He grew up immersed in the African Sufi rituals that his family has practiced since the 7th century, when they migrated from Mombasa, Kenya, to Basra, Iraq.
These rituals, which he learned as a child, were centered on healing and community, with music playing a crucial role. “When we were kids, we sang folk songs and played drums, learning these rituals,” Moneka said, recalling how guests would visit his grandfather’s house for these ceremonies.
Moneka’s journey to Canada began in the context of his work in theatre and film. In 2011, he was involved in a short film that addressed sensitive social issues in Iraq. Although Moneka and his colleagues were straight, the film, which was about LGBTQ+ issues, led to threats from militia groups.
“This is not us as Iraqis. This is not our attitude,” Moneka emphasized, reflecting on the dangerous situation. The film was eventually accepted at the Cannes Film Festival in 2015, and when Moneka traveled to France for the screening, he received a call from his father warning him not to return to Iraq, as his life was at risk. “I got stuck here now almost nine years,” Moneka said, referring to his unexpected exile in Canada.
Despite the challenges of starting over in a new country, Moneka found solace and purpose in music. “Music saved my life,” he said. He initially joined Moskitto Bar, a band that blends Balkan, Celtic, Arabic, and Latin influences, marking his first experience as a musician.
