By Phumzile Ndlovu
MBABANE– Cleopatra Methula sings for the silenced victims!
Award-winning Country and Western artist Cleopatra Methula has released a powerful new single, “Where Do We Hide,” set to debut across all major streaming platforms tomorrow ( 6 June 2025).
The song is a stirring plea against the rising tide of violence, rape, and murder sweeping through Eswatini and the broader Southern African region.
Inspired by a heart-breaking news story of a 13-year-old deaf girl who was raped and abandoned, Methula uses her voice to speak for the voiceless. The track is not only a musical release—it’s a call to urgent collective action.
“This song is a question to everyone in the Kingdom of Eswatini and beyond,” Methula says. “Where do we hide the ones who find themselves in the hands of abusers and murderers? We are all frightened. It doesn’t matter who you are—violence can find you.”
The single comes at a time when the country is grappling with an alarming rise in brutal crimes that have left communities devastated. Methula says the inspiration came from her anguish and frustration at the daily reports of violence, especially against children and women.
“It broke my heart to read about a 13-year-old deaf girl who was raped and later found by another woman,” she recalls. “Who does that to someone so defenceless? These are real people with real pain.”
Through “Where Do We Hide,” Methula channels her grief into action, using her music as a mirror to society and a rallying cry for change. The song asks difficult, soul-searching questions about the safety of vulnerable populations and the nation’s responsibility to protect them.
“Why can’t we live in peace? Why can’t we protect one another?” she asks. “We all have a choice to do what is right.”
Known for her powerful lyrics and emotional performances, Cleopatra Methula is more than just a celebrated artist—she’s a committed advocate for social justice and gender-based violence awareness. She hopes the song will resonate with organisations, activists, and communities working to protect the vulnerable.
“There are people and groups already doing the hard work of raising awareness,” she says. “I hope this song can support those efforts and help amplify their message.”
As she prepares for the song’s release, Methula remains grounded in her mission.
“I’m just a singer of simple songs,” she says softly. “But I’m deeply hurt and concerned about the safety of the vulnerable people in this country.”
She reflects on the finality of the violence that continues to destroy lives:
“Someone I know often says, ‘The permanence of death.’ Those words bring so much sadness. You can’t erase the scars—not even with an apology. Violence is not the answer.”
“Where Do We Hide” will be available on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, Deezer, Tidal, and social media platforms including Facebook and TikTok. Cleopatra hopes that it will spark difficult conversations, community reflection, and, most importantly, real-world action.
