A year after tragedy, Insimbi ZeZhwane’s vision continues to inspire
Providence Moyo
The 5th of August 2024 marked exactly one year after the passing of two members of a vibrant tshibilika group, Insimbi Zezhwane; the lead guitarist Elvis Ma Eli Mathe and Thembinkosi Maviri Mpofu. In their memory, fans and upcoming artists have commended the group’s vision, citing that it is what has sustained Insimbi Zezhwane beyond the tragic events of August 5, 2023.
One of Tsholotsho’s young artists, Thabani Chipalo, whose stage name is Menzomuhle said that emerging artists in the industry are learning immensely from the group. “Looking at the group I have noted that the vision has to be understood by every member so that in unfortunate events like death, the arts industry continues to be saved”.
Relating to the event, Onesimo Ngcotsha said what is outstanding about the group Insimbi ZeZhwane is the vision they have. Despite the tragic experience and trauma associated with it and the negative voices from people, they have stood their ground. They have pressed on. It is clear now that the vision was not of an individual but a group.”
Ngcotsha also offered encouraging words to the surviving co-founder Brema. “I encourage you to be like a pine tree, sway to any side and never break. You are the candle in the wind, keep your eyes on the vision and never let anyone or anything take that away from you. IBrema liqhubeka livuse indlebe loba kudume izulu lensewula, nkunzi emalunda lunda bhonga njalo njalo.”
Brema took to his social media platforms to send a heartfelt message to his departed friends and colleagues. ” Elvis nawe Maviri bafowethu namhlanje lihlanganisa umnyaka lasitshiya kodwa inhliziyo zethu lokhe zopha igazi, iskhathi esincane ebesesisiphilile Maviri bekuhlezi kuhlekwa ungumuntu wamahlaya umoya wakho uqhubeke uphumule ngokuthula mfowethu. Elvis gazilami umangabe ezulwini kuyabonanwa usuyongigcinela indawo yami khona mfowethu injabulo yethu soyiqhuba nakhona wangitshiya kusekude la kwakumele siyekhona Umoya wakho uphumule ngokuthula .”
Insimbi ZeZhwane members were involved in an accident along Victoria Falls Road after they were misinformed that there was a rally in Binga. It is upon their return that they were involved in a fatal accident and were taken to St Lukes hospital where the two were declared dead.
