Watch: Triciah Jonas wins “Munondida Ndakadaro” Open Verse Challenge

Langalakhe Mabena

Up-and-coming musician Triciah Jonas has been crowned the winner of the “Munondida Ndakadaro” Open Verse Challenge, a victory she says has inspired her to pursue a professional music career.

Munondida Ndakadaro is a spiritually resonant gospel track featured on Mlalazi’s 2026 album, Great God. The song has been performing strongly on local charts.

Jonas earned the top spot after fans voted for her social media submissions, following a stellar verse that stood out among hundreds of young creatives. She walked away with US$1 000 in prize money.

Across platforms including TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram, Jonas garnered 493 votes, surpassing other Top Five finalists: Takudzwa Splits (399), Ashley Nkiwane (287), Valentine Zvavano (119), and Ruth Alfredo (188).

Judges also evaluated participants on creativity, melody, and musical arrangement, while a strict one-vote-per-person rule ensured fairness.

Upon claiming the grand prize, Jonas expressed gratitude for the opportunity, crediting Mlalazi for the platform that boosted her confidence toward a professional music career.

“It’s an amazing feeling to emerge as the ultimate winner of the Munondida Ndakadaro Open Verse Challenge. I would like to thank Minister Everton Mlalazi for creating such an inspiring and incredible opportunity.

“Thank you also to everyone who supported me by voting. I cannot wait to share my gift with all of you. This is just the beginning of greater things. God bless you all,” she said.

Meanwhile, Everton Mlalazi Music issued a statement reflecting on the challenge as proof of Zimbabwe’s abundant, untapped talent.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated. Your passion, creativity, and courage to share your gift did not go unnoticed. This challenge has reminded us that Zimbabwe is brimming with incredible talent that deserves to be seen, heard, and celebrated on larger platforms.

“To every artiste who stepped up, we see you, we appreciate you, and we celebrate you. This is only the beginning,” reads the statement.