It was an against-all-the-odds event, sheer tenacity of human spirit and capacity for great vision. A year of coronavirus, the ultimate disrupter, would not stop the fourth edition of Madiba Jive to go on.
On December 5, on the day Madiba perished from this world seven years ago, the fourth edition of Madiba Jive was hosted in Richards Bay in KwaZulu-Natal to commemorate his life.
This is a brainchild of gifted young Zwide Ndwandwe, an ardent artiste himself, who served successive premiers of KwaZulu-Natal as an imbongi – a praise singer. The gift of seeing things beyond the ordinary through praise singing led to the young Zwide having a vision to contribute towards building a better South Africa.
In 2016, the concept of Madiba Jive was born. Besides him were Mr B T Gumede of Trans-Tugela Transport and his family, and Mr Mondle Mbatha who have become the pillars of strength and the necessary support for Zwide to realise his vision.
It is these acts of young people in South Africa and across the world who see in Madiba’s legacy hope for a better life even though the ugly prospect and reality that Madiba’s house in Vilakazi Street is up for auction.
South Africa’s gallant struggle for freedom is in a dramatic way up for auction to the highest bidder. Certainly, something terrible in South Africa is going on.
In an injunction to the nation Madiba constantly warned us of such a prospect. He said those in position of power should respect that position and not let down those who elected them to high office. He reminded us that South Africans are feted across the world because of having successfully defeated the apartheid demon and agreeing on a peaceful transition to democracy, thereby avoiding the prospect of rivers of blood flowing in South Africa.
Having managed to stage the fourth edition of Madiba Jive against all odds, Zwide proved that it is possible that in the zig-zags of struggle, which include the prospective sale of the iconic house, victory is always certain and young people are ready and active in expanding the legacy of Madiba for humanity.
Madiba Jive is about social cohesion and moral regeneration and addresses in particular the younger generation to take their rightful place.
A lot can be learned from Zwide who was very exemplary especially in holding this event in the midst of the pandemic. All protocols were observed. Attendance was limited to 500 spectators.
At the gate, marshals checked the temperatures of people entering. Sanitisers were used. SAPS had a strong presence to oversee law and order.
Among the artists and entertainers were the legendary Mahotella Queens whose messages in song resonate at all times with Madiba’s message for reconciliation, peace and striving to live in harmony. Isomiso, a song of hope for children in the face of drought, is always apt. The trendsetting and fan favourite Sjava was the show-stopper.
The 2020 Madiba Jive edition was a milestone event in an annual programme which should last for centuries. Zwide has set his eyes on the fifth anniversary next year.
He thanked the disciplined fans to whom credit should go as they continue to support what should germinate into a global programme for peace and social cohesion. He feels humbled by the support and the enthusiasm with which people are receiving the concept.
As he sets his eyes on the farthest horizon Zwide calls upon the corporate world to join in and partner in promoting nation-building and unity through Madiba Jive. These virtues are so desperately required to heal South Africa and the world.
Special tributes must go to host Umhlathuze municipality and Gumede's Trans Tugela Bus Company for sponsoring the dream since its inception.
• Dr Lehohla is the former statistician-general of SA.
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