Maelula Tshifhire Day to celebrate 40 years of cultural promotion

Date: 18 September 2024 By: 

The Maelula Tshifhire Traditional Dance Group will celebrate its 40^th anniversary on Saturday, 21 September. The group, established in 1984, aims to promote the tshigombela, malende, and matangwa dances.

This will be the first event of its kind, celebrating four decades of achievements and dedicated efforts to preserve the local culture. The event is funded by the National Arts Council (NAC), an agency of the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture (DSAC).

According to Mr Roviko Mukhondo, the group’s manager, the weekend’s activities will feature various dance and music performances showcasing the group’s rich history. “The music performed will include songs like Hulila Ngengenge Thohoyandou, Hovuwa Lihanya, Magobodo, Vho-Makhulu, Tshifhire Thero, and others. Local poets, praise singers, and artists will also be part of the celebration to honour the group’s resilience, consistency, perseverance, and commitment to preserving our cultural music and dance,” he said.

During the Maelula Tshifhire Day, 25 members of the Maelula Traditional Dance Group will be awarded certificates in recognition of their contributions to preserving the culture, heritage, and indigenous art forms.

“Many groups, people, and communities have tried before us and will try after us. This is the first Maelula Tshifhire Day, but we hope that future generations will continue this tradition,” Mukhondo said. He added, quoting Nelson Mandela, “It always seems impossible until it's done.”

The activities take place at the Maelula Council Hall. Entrance is free, but guests must confirm their attendance beforehand. It starts at 08:00 and will continue until 17:00.

For more information about the event, Roviko Mukhondo can be contacted at (082) 227-0048, or the group’s chairperson, Vho Divhambele Mudumela, at (076) 231-9117 or via email at [email protected].

Viewed: 1133