Ras Khwalu praises Khosi Vho Ratshinyiwaho II with song

Reggae musician Peter Khwalu, better known as Ras Khwalu, has never forgotten his roots or those who helped him rise in his music career. The Vhaholefhali Ndivha Ndeme and Vhaswa Dzhenani Tshikolo hitmaker has released a new single, Khosi Vho Ratshinyiwaho II, in honour of the reigning traditional leader at Ngwenani Hathemeli.

Ras Khwalu released his debut album, Kha Muzika Ri Kho Phinyela, in 2018. “However, it was back in 2003 when the late Khosi Vho Mugowashango Themeli of Ngwenani Hathemeli connected me with a German citizen based in Vhembe, Mr Taggot Fobbe,” he explained.

Fobbe ran an exchange project in the country, which Khwalu joined. “Through the project, I toured Germany and Switzerland, showcasing Vhavenda culture in a drama performance. I also had the opportunity to study metal work and tourism. The tour was an experience I will cherish for the rest of my life. It shaped my career as an artist and equipped me with valuable skills. I can say that I am what I am today because of the influence the royal family had on me,” he said.

Sadly, Khosi Vho Mugowashango Themeli passed away in 2020 before Khwalu could properly thank him. The good relationship, however, continued with the new traditional leader, Khosi Vho Ratshinyiwaho II.

“The new traditional leader also has a passion for development in his village, especially in the arts and culture sphere. In 2023, he organised a tournament in the village, where I, along with legendary reggae icon Colbert Mukwevho, was billed to entertain the masses. I saw this as a great honour. Out of all the artists, he chose me to perform alongside this great icon. This inspired me to write the song,” he said.

Date:19 September 2024

By: Elmon Tshikhudo

Elmon Tshikhudo started off as a photographer. He developed an interest in writing and started submitting articles to local as well as national publications. He became part of the Limpopo Mirror family in 2005 and was a permanent part of the news team until 2019. He currently writes on a freelance basis, covering human rights issues, court news and entertainment.

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