Award-winning duo Mafikizolo, consisting of composer Theo Kgosinkwe and lead singer Nhlanhla Mafu, will be the headline act at the Doc Jubber Hockey Field in Olympia next weekend.

In an exclusive interview with this publication, the duo expressed happiness to return to the Land of the Brave, after a number of years to deliver another memorable show. 

“We are delighted to perform in Namibia. It’s been a long time. Finally, we get to come and perform for our fans, who haven’t seen us for a long time,” they said.

The group has been consistent since the start of their musical journey dating back to 1996, even after losing third band member and composer Tebogo Madingoane.

“Yes, we have been consistent in our music, but our music journey has been one of highs and lows. We lost a member in 2004, but we continued as a duo. Since then, we’ve achieved so much locally and internationally,” Kgosinkwe said.

Mafu told VIBEZ! they have released nine albums so far, with their first album being one of her favourites to perform as it is dear to her heart. 

“I would say all of our albums are special for me, but I find Sibongile album with songs like Ndihambanawe and the Reunited album with songs like Khona close to my heart because they changed the game for us on the continent. The song we love performing the most is Ndihambanawe,” she said.

To date, Mafikizolo has won 14 South African and two MTV Africa Music Awards, including awards for Best Duo or Group of the Year. 

With the ever-evolving sounds and genres taking over, especially Amapiano being the most trending style from South Africa, Mafikizolo has maintained their afro-pop signature. 

“We are a pop band that follows popular culture and trends, but the times are not the same. We are a mature brand with timeless music, and our sound works for us, even though we just gave it a bit of twist here and there, but we remain true to our sound,” they said.

In terms of their solo careers, Kgosinkwe said he would like to revisit his solo efforts, as it’s been almost three years since releasing something new. “It’s been years since I took a break and focused on Mafikizolo. It would be nice to do another solo album because I really had success in my solo career, and would love to bless my fans with a beautiful album,” he noted.

The group rose to fame after they released their singles Ndihambanawe, Kuphela, Kwela Kwela, Sibongile and Udakwa Njalo. The group released their self-titled album Mafikizolo in 1997, and Music Revolution in 1999. 

“To our fans in Namibia, please come in numbers, as I will also be celebrating my birthday in your beautiful country. So let’s have fun and enjoy good music and an amazing performance. See you soon,” Kgosinkwe said.

-slunyangwe@nepc.com.na