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Mthabisi Tshuma, [email protected]

IMVELO, a dynamic new musical production hailing from Bulawayo, is set to shine at the upcoming Chief Dakamela Achievers Awards ceremony in Nkayi, Matabeleland North province this weekend.

The awards, a community-driven initiative, aim to honour, acknowledge, and inspire individuals and organisations that have made substantial contributions to the advancement of human development across various fields. Marking their second edition, these awards serve as a testament to the ongoing commitment to celebrate and recognise the impactful endeavours of change-makers within community.

Since inception last year, the awards have grown in significance, reflecting the continuous dedication to fostering positive change and progress.

Imvelo (Nature) evokes ancient wisdom through a mesmerising fusion of traditional Ndebele songs and dances, brought vividly into the present with profound messages resonating with the urgent global call to action on climate change. In this captivating production, powerful voices intertwine with dynamic traditional dances, weaving a tapestry of joy, celebration, and ancestral wisdom, while also conveying cautionary tales for the future.

Comprising five carefully selected traditional Ndebele songs passed down through generations, including Njelele, Akula ndaba, Dabuka lwandle, Ndwandwe, and Amnandi egayiwe, Imvelo speaks directly to the pressing issues of our time, particularly the discourse surrounding climate change.

This collaborative effort brings together established and emerging artistes from vocal, dance, and music groups in the city, each with a rich history of excellence in traditional African and World music. Together, they offer a stirring testament to the enduring power and relevance of cultural heritage in addressing contemporary challenges.

At the Nkayi award ceremony, a stellar ensemble of seven singers and dancers will take the stage, accompanied by a dynamic 6-piece band featuring drums, percussion, guitars, bass, keyboards, and saxophone. Guiding the performance with their exceptional talent and charisma are lead vocalists, the gifted singer-songwriter Thandy Dhlana and the versatile Charles ‘Mahlaba’ Banda. Together, they promise to deliver an unforgettable showcase of musical prowess and cultural celebration at the prestigious event.

Josh Nyapimbi, the director of Nhimbe Trust, emphasised the profound significance embedded within the project. Explaining the depth of meaning behind the song “Njelele”, Nyapimbi delved into its portrayal of the sacred mountain shrine of the same name. Situated deep in the countryside, far removed from urban life, Njelele served as a sacred space where communities gathered for rain-making ceremonies, invoking the ancestors through song and dance. The shrine was believed to hold magical powers, with rain often falling as people descended from the mountain, symbolising the promise of a bountiful season.

However, Nyapimbi lamented the decline of this ancient practice in recent times. As droughts persist and natural resources dwindle, there is growing concern that the neglect of rituals like those at Njelele may have angered the gods, leading to environmental hardships. In light of this, there is a renewed push for the revival of such traditions, recognising their importance in addressing contemporary challenges such as the El Niño weather phenomenon, which exacerbates drought conditions.

Nyapimbi further elaborated on the profound meanings embedded within the songs of “Imvelo”:

“Akula ndaba” signifies the transformative power of the Njelele shrine, offering solace, hope, and guidance to those in need. It emphasises the belief that all issues can find resolution within the sacred space of Njelele.

“Dabuka lwandle” invokes the gods to part distant oceans, symbolising the quest for knowledge, inspiration, and empowerment. The song also pays homage to specific families and clans, acknowledging their role in cultural heritage.

“Ndwandwe” serves as a plea for assistance and a call to action for land preservation. It highlights the urgent need for harmony between humans and nature, urging people to treat the environment with respect to avoid destructive consequences.

“Egayiwe Amabele” celebrates the joys of a bountiful harvest, anticipating moments of revelry and communal bonding. It also serves as an offering to the gods, conveyed through spirit mediums during ceremonies.”

Nyapimbi emphasised how the performance of “Imvelo” aligns seamlessly with the objectives of the Chief Dakamela Achievers Awards. These objectives include honouring individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to their fields, promoting excellence that positively impacts communities, inspiring leaders from diverse backgrounds, sharing best practices in development initiatives, and fostering a deeper understanding of current development efforts.

Established in 2023 by Nhimbe Trust, Ilima Records was created to nurture and promote indigenous music in Zimbabwe. Through its work, Ilima Records seeks to enhance the music industry in Zimbabwe while increasing the global consumption of African music products.