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Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]

IN 2005, Urban Grooves trio, Andrew Musonza, Kelvin Tapi aka Vito and Resilience Chekera aka Gze released the song, “Jesa” and there was something peculiar about the song, its visuals. Unlike most music videos, Jesa was well-narrated and had a clear storyline.

Usually, musicians just assemble a team of dancers and extras for a video shoot without any real knowledge or understanding of the script, something that Awakhiwe Sibanda, better known as Awa Khiwe, a Germany-based Hip-hop artiste from Nkayi, Matabeleland North province denounces.

Awa’s approach to music videos starkly contrasts with the often haphazard methods seen in the industry. This philosophy of having everything pre-planned is vividly illustrated in the production of “Rap Gandaganda”, a track the musician released yesterday. The visuals were filmed by Marcus Khumalo at Dolahali in Nkayi – the very location where Awa’s artistic journey began.

“Rap Gandaganda” is a powerful self-empowerment hip-hop track that highlights Awa Khiwe’s exceptional rap skills in her mother tongue. Blending distinctive Ndebele click sounds with English rap, she delivers a performance that is both energetic and culturally resonant. Ghanaian Stallion’s production adds depth, with beats that perfectly complement her dynamic flow.

Awa Khiwe

From her base in Germany, Awa told Chronicle Showbiz that “Rap Gandaganda” aims to celebrate African royalty and showcase the beauty of African culture against the backdrop of challenges often highlighted in mainstream narratives.

She said the choice of the Nkayi locale was deeply significant for her.

“That pink hut is where I wrote my first raps,” she reminisced.

Awa’s grandmother was her first supporter, guiding her through the uncertainties of her early career. Unfortunately, she passed away, and returning to the hut was Awa’s way of grieving and honouring her memory.

“Growing up, I was so obsessed with writing and rapping that I would stay up all night, using my grandmother’s paraffin lamps until they were empty. She always encouraged me to work hard in music and believed it could lead to something great.

“Going back (to Nkayi) was my way of paying tribute to her and trying to heal from losing my best friend. This was more than just a music video; it was a much-needed therapy session and a chance to give back to my community.”

For Awa, filming “Rap Gandaganda” in Nkayi was about much more than creating art; it was a personal journey of healing.

“Shooting a music video in Nkayi was very important for me for many reasons,” she explained.

Awa Khiwe

“After being hospitalised for a long time, I was feeling empty and drained. I needed to create a space where I was surrounded by my closest family and friends. Home was the best place; the whole experience was like a therapy session.

“It recharged my creative spirit and gave me back the peace and fulfillment I had been craving for a long time.”

Partnering with Nomakhosazana Ncube’s fashion brand, “A Tribe Called Zimbabwe”, Awa adorned herself in stunning cowhide costumes crafted by Ncube and designer Sharon Ntuta.

In the video, Awa, clad in royal apparel is seen on an ox-drawn cart with a royal chair on it, turning simple props into exquisite works of art. The maidens featured in the video are village girls like Awa, and she hopes to inspire them to pursue their dreams.

“So many people told me they were inspired by this project. It was the first Hip-Hop music video ever done in my village, and the celebration was incredible. Chief Dakamela even drove all the way from Bulawayo to support us,” said the “Ngeke Bengimele” hit-maker.

Awa’s artistic vision extends beyond her music; she carefully curates every visual detail to resonate with her audience. She stressed the significance of cultural representation, stating, “Cultural representation matters. I wanted to celebrate the rich diversity of our heritage.”

Before this, Awa released “Zizobuya” and was also featured on Master H’s “Nawanadem remix”.

Since launching her career in 2012, Awa has become a resonant voice in the music scene, blending Hip-Hop with the rich tapestry of her IsiNdebele heritage. Her performances are not just energetic displays; they are powerful narratives that tackle urgent social issues such as gender-based violence and child marriage.

With rapid-fire delivery in both IsiNdebele and English, Awa’s music entertains while educating, showcasing the impactful storytelling that has earned her acclaim both locally and internationally.

Awa’s influence extends beyond her own creations. Her performances have taken her to various countries, including Belgium and Switzerland, where she shares her unique sound and cultural heritage. Despite her global reach, Awa remains deeply connected to her roots, drawing continuous inspiration from her upbringing in Zimbabwe. – Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu