Zimpapers Logo

Mthabisi Tshuma, Showbiz Reporter
THAT Nkayi Girl, Awa Khiwe made history on Saturday as she became the first female hip hop artiste to clinch the Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards (BAA) Outstanding Hip Hop artiste award.

The rapper who is known for uniquely rapping in her mother tongue, Ndebele managed to shrug off competition from her male counterparts, Mlue Jay, Msiz’kay, MUSE, Rockie Doub and Luminous.

Although she did not manage to travel to Zimbabwe for the event, Awa Khiwe was represented by the Mjolo FM dating show team of Mgcini, Jahalezansi, Eric and her best friend Nonsikelelo Tshabangu. Her presence was felt at the awards venue, Large City Hall as the in-house band performed her hit song, Ngeke Bengimele. Quite a challenging song because of Awa Khiwe’s verses and clicks, the band nailed the performance and got a nod from Awa.

“A big shout out to the band, dancers and the backing vocalists who nailed the most difficult part of the song (Ngeke Bengimele). You guys are amazing. Thank you so much to everyone who worked behind the scenes to make this possible,” said Awa speaking from France where she currently resides.

Commenting on the RoilBAA win, she said she is overjoyed as it is an honour to excel in a male-dominated industry, also taking note of her rural background.

“It’s such an honour to receive this award because it shows that my work is being recognised and appreciated at home. Thanks to everyone who believes in Ndebele Rap. We have an amazing language and culture and it’s a dream come true to see it being celebrated like this at home.

“I appreciate all of you,” said Awa Khiwe.

Hailing from rural Nkayi, Awa Khiwe said she hopes the award will inspire other rural girls to work hard in order to excel in life.

“It’s not easy to fight misogyny in the hip hop industry and I hope this win will inspire other women, especially village girls like, me to rap.”

The RoilBAA becomes Awa Khiwe’s second Zimbabwean award after she won the Best Female Act award as the Zim Hip Hop Awards in 2016.

Turning to her music Awa Khiwe who is working on her debut EP said fans will have to wait a little bit longer for its release as she has postponed it to early next year due to Covid-19.

“I’m looking forward to the release though as the work is exceptional,” teased Awa Khiwe while thanking her producer Ghanaian Stallion for believing in her. — @mthabisi_mthire