Mbuso Khoza to host 2019 Amahubo Symposium in Johannesburg

Minister of Arts and Culture Nathi Mthethwa will deliver the keynote address at the event, which is in its fourth edition and intends to reignite ancient songs, preserve the country’s heritage and encourage Africans to stay true to their identity.

The symposium will feature performances from jazz musician Nduduzo Makathini, Themba Mkhize and Mbuso Khoza & the Afrikan Heritage Ensemble.

University of KwaZulu-Natal department of education’s Xolani Zondo will present the sacred aspects of Zulu dance while Wits University PhD student Kholeka Shange will educate the audience on the role played by Princess Magogo to ascribe value in heritage.

This year, the symposium will honour Themba Mkhize, Niki-B, Madala Kunene, Madusini, Mbongeni Ngema, Mgqashiyo Ndlovu and Busi Mhlongo with the Heritage Orders for their support and notable work in the arts and culture sector.

“Amahubo [songs] are a rare style of music and also serve as a scroll of the nation,” Khoza said. “They are associated with the very beginning of time when the Nguni people were in control of their destiny. In the olden days, each household used to have a family song called ihubo, which was used to safeguard the family history and also serve as a prayer for respective families.

“This symposium is aimed at reminding people about the importance of heritage. Amahubo are the songs of the ancients. They are at the centre of our spiritual lives, our historical lives. Even our religious lives. They carry messages of the past, warning us about the present. This event seeks to encourage people to embrace and fall in love with their histories.”