Online Reporter
Trust Khosa, Zimpapapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Sandra Ndebele says she has a special place for Maphisa in Matobo District, Matabeleland South, because her husband hails from the area.
She revealed that each visit is more of a reunion with her in-laws, and she does not take each trip lightly.
Sandy, as the diva is fondly known, made the remarks ahead of her performance at the 46th Uhuru Gala, which is set for Maphisa Growth Point.
Running under the theme “Zim@46 — Unity and Development Towards Vision 2030,” the gala will take place at Minda High School this Saturday.
With two days to go before the Uhuru celebrations take place in Maphisa, Sandie expressed her delight, saying she will be performing in familiar territory.
“I have a soft spot for Maphisa because that’s where my husband (Nkanyiso Mbusi Sibindi) comes from, and it’s like I am also being reunited with my in-laws at a national event,” she stressed.
“I last performed there in 2023, and it’s always a good feeling to travel to Maphisa on national duty.
“I will always do my best each time I get the platform to showcase my talent.
“I cherish these moments, and this year’s edition is a bit special for myself and the entire team that I work with.”
Famed for her well-choreographed acts and hits like “Into Yami,” “Guva Rangu,” and “Malaika,” the diva has vowed to remain a role model for the girl child and female creatives.
“I am a perfect example of an artiste who gained exposure from performing at State functions dating back to the days of MzeeBira, when all the musicians would travel in a bus.
“Back then, most of us had no cars, and I still miss the vibe because that’s when we made new friends in showbiz through national musical galas,” she recalled.
As one of the major drawcards at this year’s Uhuru celebrations, Sandie urged the nation to unite and celebrate the 46 years of self-rule and freedom in peace.
“My message out there is for the people to unite and celebrate their independence in solidarity.
“This is the message we are all preaching this time around.”
The former Iyasa dancer and actress also hailed Government for decentralising national events.
“It’s a plus that national events have been decentralised, and it is quite encouraging because no place is being left behind—this is the mantra the President has been preaching.
“For the people of Maphisa and the region, they will be meeting some of Zimbabwe’s finest stars at the gala—stars they used to watch on television or hear on radio.
“The interaction is critical, since it will change the perceptions of the people from rural areas,” she added.
Besides Sandy, the 46th Uhuru gala will feature a mix of yesteryear stars and the new crop of creatives who are currently trending.
Revolutionary singer and Imbube exponent, Sotsha Moyo, who fronts Black Umfolosi of the “Unity” fame, will bring class to the gala, together with Chase Skuza and Jeys Marabini.
Dendera exponent Suluman Chimbetu, who—like his late father Simon “Chopper” Chimbetu was patriotic —will be promoting the gospel of love, unity and development through song and dance in Maphisa.
Other artistes on the line-up include Andy Muridzo, Dereck Mpofu, Admire “Chief Hwenje” Sanyanga, Gudoluhle and Friends, Dubia Masters, Bolamba Culture Birds, Zondamuthakathi Dance Group, and Zinja Ziyamuluman Mxolisi, along with other surprise acts from the region.
After all the preparations, and with Government’s assurance of peaceful celebrations, Maphisa Growth Point will be buzzing this weekend.
Stallholders and local enterprises are also looking forward to the event, which is expected to awaken the usually sleepy town of Maphisa into song and dance.
Serious road rehabilitation has also taken place in the area, with the Government hosting State functions.
A business boom is expected, with Government assuring attendees of maximum security.
Last year, Nembudziya Government High School in Gokwe, Midlands, hosted the 45th Uhuru Musical Gala, featuring an impressive line-up that included Simon Mutambi, Admire “Chief Hwenje” Sibanda, Suluman Chimbetu, Andy Muridzo, Clement Magwaza, Argatha Murudzwa, Shantel Sithole, Jah Signal, the Mbare Chimurenga Choir, Sandra Ndebele, and Peter Moyo.
This time around, attention will again be on musical greats led by Skuza, Moyo, Sandie, and Suluman, who have mastered the art.
For Sandie, the Maphisa gala would be a perfect homecoming, as she will be honouring her in-laws on a national podium.
