Monika Amunyela

Singer/songwriter Chikune, also known as Coleen Tjikune, recently released her latest single, Okambloma, a personal project rooted in memory, motherhood and cultural inheritance.

Inspired by a traditional Otjiherero lullaby, the song aims to communicate the values of love, care and guidance passed down through several generations.

The title Okambloma means flower in Otjiherero, which motivates the chorus, which translates to my little flower is scared of the thirst, let me give it water so that you may grow and bloom. “It speaks about the deep love of a parent. The water represents love, protection and guidance.” Chikune said the metaphor speaks to how children are nurtured and supported so they can grow into their full potential.

The music video, directed by Eric Mule, takes this message further visually by telling a story of love carried across two generations. Black and white scenes that feature producer and long-time collaborator Keynote with his wife, portraying a moment of anticipation as he serenades his unborn child and partner, while the colored scenes shift to the future, showing that same child grown up and now serenading her own daughter. 

According to Chikune, the storyline also reflects continuation and how this lullaby that carries love and core memories is passed down to the different generations. 

“This song is very personal to us because Keynote and I now have our own ‘flowers’ to nourish and love,” she said. 

Okambloma also creates a turning point in Chikune’s artistic journey, as she mentioned her earlier work focused on staying relevant and creating music with lighter themes that accommodated everyone and kept them on their feet. 

“Today, I am creating on my own terms and in my own time. I want my music to touch hearts and help heal emotional wounds,”saod Chikune. 

She added that touching hearts was the reason she wanted to sing when she was young in the first place, and with Okambloma can showcase the mature, refined version of herself and represent that purpose. 

The medical doctor by profession said the song is described as an Afropop ballad combined with African rhythms, with emotional storytelling and smooth melodies. 

She hopes listeners can feel comfort and nostalgia through this project. 

“I want them to be reminded of their roots, their childhood, and the people who nurtured them,” she concluded.

-mamunyela@nepc.com.na