BY PHUMZILE NDLOVU
MBABANE – Due to the dwindling love of culture from the youth, Gogo Mpila has offered to teach those willing to know how to play makhoyane/sikhoyane at a fee.
In an exclusive interview with this publication Gogo Mpila (75), born Khokhiwe Masango from Nswangwini, shared that she was willing to share her knowledge on how to play the instrument, which she can make from scratch. “I actually make it myself. My cousin taught me how to play the instrument when we were still young, herding cattle in the veld, which is when I fell in love with it.”
She went on to share that she started playing professionally during the Smart Partnership in 2003, and the rest is history. Gogo Mpila not only plays Makhoyane; she can also play ‘Stolotolo,’ a silver instrument, which makes a magical harmony.
Since turning professional almost two decades later, she is mostly booked for traditional and cultural events. She recently played last Saturday at the Miss Eswatini crowning, which was held at the Happy Valley Hotel. She also played at the Hhohho regional NACA nominations in Pigg’s Peak recently.
Gogo Mpila shared that she has taught a few artists so far, which include the legendary Thobile Makhoyane as well.
She has been nominated for Outstanding Traditional Music at the NACA Awards, which will take place at Esibayeni Lodge on 14 December 2024.
To vote for her, simply send “NACA” via WhatsApp to +18622034403 and follow the prompts. Select Code 16212; voting costs E10 via MoMo. Voting lines close 12 December 2024.
To reach her for lessons or bookings, you can follow her on Facebook, Gogo Mpila, or reach out to Daniel Mphendvulo Dlamini, who manages her socials at 7943 1724 / 7833 4396.