Albert Nyathi performs poetry for SADC leaders

Zimbabwean dub-poet Albert Nyathi performed a poem entitled ‘SADC at 30’ in front of several dignitaries and SADC leaders in Windhoek, Namibia. The “Senzeni Na” singer is reported to have been the only artist from the region to perform at the prestigious event.

Nyathi, who was clad in traditional Ndebele attire of animal hides, thrilled the packed auditorium with his recitation of the poem that paid glowing tribute to the exploits of leaders in the region.

Various SADC leaders including Zimbabwean dictator Robert Mugabe were in attendance. Nyathi’s poem chronicled the struggles that African nations went through in fighting oppression and colonial bondage. The performance was also beamed on local television, ZBC TV.

Born on November 15 1962 in Gwanda, Nyathi is also a polished musician and published poet. He composed the song and poem Senzeni Na? following the death of Chris Hani.

Through his Imbongi outfit, Nyathi has also honed various other artists who include Mathew Kaunda popularly known as Mateo in music circles and Prudence Katomeni-Mbofana, among others.