Brenda Fassie’s 1997 hit song Vulindlela still raises questions about South Africa as a nation

Brenda Fassie’s 1997 hit song Vulindlela still raises questions about South Africa as a nation

By Mbali Mazibuko, University of Johannesburg In 1997, South Africa’s most famous music star had a huge hit. Brenda Fassie’s Vulindlela became a national pop anthem, played especially at weddings and celebrations. Vulindlela can be loosely translated from the Zulu language as an instruction to “make way” or, if you like, “clear the path”. The song is about making way for the groom (and […]

July 12, 2024 65

Africa

Tanganyika and Zanzibar: Tanzania’s 60-year-old union may need a restructure

By Nicodemus Minde, United States International University On 26 April 2024, Tanzania celebrated 60 years of the union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar. The union, which created the present-day United Republic of Tanzania, stands out among the longest lasting political arrangements of its kind in Africa, and has shaped the country’s construction of national identity. Nicodemus Minde, who has researched Tanzania’s politics, unpacks the union’s dynamics. […]

May 23, 2024 14