- Khuzani Mpungose postponed his Gcwalisa Spring Picnic countdown to pay respect to late ambassador and former arts minister Nathi Mthethwa.
- The Maskandi star says Mthethwa supported artists and promoted African culture abroad through projects like the Ekhaya Hub in Paris.
Award-winning Maskandi artist Khuzani Mpungose, known as Khuba or Indlamlenze, has Thanpostponed his long-awaited Gcwalisa Spring Picnic countdown event to honour the late ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa.
The event, which was meant to take place last Friday at the University of Zululand in Dlangezwa near eMpangeni, is part of the build-up to the main Gcwalisa Spring Picnic at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium in November.
Through his Indlamlenze Foundation, Khuzani said the decision was made out of respect and the spirit of Ubuntu. “As Africans, we have our own ways of mourning. Mthethwa played a vital role in the lives of artists in this country. That’s why we decided to postpone our well-planned event,” the foundation said.
Mthethwa, who passed away while serving as South Africa’s ambassador to France, was praised for supporting artists and helping build the Cultural and Creative Industry Master Plan. He also championed the Ekhaya Hub in Paris, which promotes African arts internationally.
The Gcwalisa Spring Picnic has become one of the biggest events on the Maskandi calendar, giving traditional musicians a massive stage to showcase their talent.
This year’s main event will take place on 8 November at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
While Gcwalisa focuses on Maskandi, Khuzani says the festival also welcomes artists from other genres to promote unity in music. Over the years, performers have included rapper Cassper Nyovest, gospel star Jumbo Nyangiwe and DJ Tira.
“Maskandi artists perform at other genres’ events, so it’s only fair we share our stage too,” organisers said.
Pictured above: Maskandi award-winning artist Khuzani Mpungose, known as Indlamlenze or Khuba, honoured SA ambassador to France Nathi Mthethwa.
Image source: Indlamlenze Foundation
