Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
ALL-FEMALE imbube ensemble Nobuntu has mourned Austrian cultural promoter Horst Watzl, describing him as a caring individual who gave the group its first opportunity to tour Europe.
Watzl died on September 19, 2026, aged 67. Born on November 22, 1958, he was a respected figure in the international world music scene and a passionate advocate for global artistic exchange.
He served as managing director of the Initiative Multikulturelles Zentrum Wien (Vienna Multicultural Centre) before joining the Vienna Institute for International Dialogue and Cooperation (VIDC).
Watzl also co-founded kulturen in bewegung (“Cultures in Motion”), an initiative dedicated to promoting intercultural arts and music projects.
He retired at the end of 2023 after a career dedicated to championing international cultural collaboration.
In his memory, Nobuntu performed their song “Rwizi”, which the group said was one of his favourites.
“Our first-ever tour to Austria and the rest of Europe was made possible by Horst Watzl. Apart from us, he collaborated with many other artistes from the African continent. We thank him for everything. May his soul rest in peace,” reads part of a statement by the group.
Meanwhile, Nobuntu are continuing their international touring schedule, with performances in the United States and South America, including Colombia, planned for the remainder of 2026.
