Jeys in lobola payment celebration

The Mkhwenyana, Nicholas Sibanda, from Lupane is based in Manchester and married Ndlovu’s sister Siduduziwe who is also based in the UK.

The afternoon show will be held at Ndlovu’s homestead in the Gwabila area under Chief Vezi Maduna’s jurisdiction.

In an interview yesterday, Ndlovu said the celebrations were a way to remind those in the Diaspora about their culture.

He said his brother in-law had paid all the dues to the family and the day was to introduce him formally to the family.

“People in the Diaspora have been living there for so long. Through such practices we can remind them that there are people living in the rural areas and also not for them to forget our African culture,” said Ndlovu.

He said about 600 people were expected to attend and two beasts would be slaughtered.

“This is also a chance for people to see the 10km stretch of road that was constructed for villagers.

Those who were not at the official opening will have a chance to see the road that has brought relief to villages in the area. Part of the festivities will see Jeys performing,” said Ndlovu.

Jeys Marabini said the show was an opportunity for Kozekulunge to give quality music to villagers in the area.

He said he always enjoyed performing for people from his home village.

“People of Filabusi will have a chance to see a live band perform during the festivities. It is always a pleasure for me to perform at my home village,” said Jeys.

He said he would belt out tunes from his latest album Jeys at 40.

“I have tracks that are doing well on radio such as Ukhulu and Yamitha kanjani, so I will play them for the villagers. I will also belt out tunes from my previous albums. Filabusi should brace themselves for fireworks at the show,” said Jeys.

He said joining him would be Bulawayo traditional dance group Umkhathi Theatre.

Umkhathi Theatre administrator, Joseph Ngubo said they were geared up for the show.

He said dances such as Setapa would be showcased by the group.

“We will be doing the SeTswana dance Setapa during the day. If the need arises we shall also incorporate other dances such as isitshikitsha and ingquzu among others,” said Ngubo.

He said guests would be welcomed with praise poetry and chants that exalt the Ndlovu family.

“When guests arrive we shall be doing praise poetry for each of the distinguished guests. This is reserved for the important people,” said Ngubo.

Another cultural group Simunye Simunye is also expected to be part of the festivities.