By Thokozani Mthembu
The National Arts Festival’s first-ever Makhanda Igwijo Competition made dreams come true for young girls and boys in Makhanda. Local singing groups gathered to present heartfelt renditions of Amagwijo that had shaped their lives growing up.
Amagwijo are songs that express emotion, often having only a chorus, and are indigenous to the Eastern Cape. The competition set a platform for many young singers to compete for the cash prize of R5 000.
Makhanda Gwijo Combined gave an electrifying performance at the competition, which earned them top honours and the chance to perform with The Soil at the National Arts Festival. It also secured them an unexpected invitation to Johannesburg to record with the trio for their forthcoming album. Through the great efforts of the community of Makhanda, family and friends, funds were raised to help the group reach Johannesburg to record.
After their return home, the group and Malakhiwe, Sivenathi, and Liyema appeared on The Pulse Show on Rhodes Music Radio 89.7 to share their experience in Johannesburg with . They started by telling host Lilitha Mahuza about their experience at the National Arts Festival. ‘Having a winning mentality is what got us through,” Liyema said. “We never had the thought of not winning.” He commented on the fearlessness of his group mates and said also that the competition had started in Makhanda and should be won and continue to stay in Makhanda.
Regarding their experience in Johannesburg, the singers agreed: “It’s been one of the best days of our lives, every moment was unforgettable, and now we are taking things to the next step.”
The group felt that the experience was filled with lessons, especially under the guidance of Bhut’Ntsika. Malakhiwe touched on the experience of the city as they visited sites like Vilakazi Street and the Market Theatre. Since they have come back, they have received recognition from their community and have started being booked for sporting events, ceremonies and celebrations.
Also in their future is a benefit concert next month (tickets are R50) to raise funds for their trip to Zimbabwe with The Soil.
These voices are ready to entertain any crowd — look for Makhanda Gwijo Combined on social media.
