Our #WCW today is Awakhiwe Sibanda, popularly known as Awa Khiwe, a Zimbabwean hip-hop artist celebrated for her unique sound, which fuses hip-hop with her Ndebele culture. Born and raised in Nkayi, Zimbabwe, Awa grew up in a traditional setting that would later influence her music.
Awa’s childhood was marked by violence and trauma, which she has openly spoken about in her music. Despite the challenges she faced, her family’s strong religious background played a significant role in shaping her values and worldview. However, her family’s perception of hip-hop as a genre associated with drugs and social deviance made it difficult for her to pursue her passion for music.
Growing up in Makokoba, Bulawayo’s oldest township, exposed Awa to the harsh realities of life. However, it was in this same environment that she discovered her love for hip-hop. She began making music in 2012, using her experiences to craft lyrics that spoke to the struggles of her community.
Awa’s music career gained momentum when she started performing at local shows in Bulawayo. Her unique sound, which blended hip-hop with Ndebele traditional music, quickly gained attention. In 2015, she was featured in a documentary by Noisey Raps, which showcased her talent and passion for music.
The documentary led to Awa being invited to perform at the Shoko Festival, one of Zimbabwe’s biggest music festivals. Her performance was well-received, and she soon became a household name in Zimbabwean hip-hop. Awa’s music tackles issues such as gender-based violence, child marriages, and politics, making her a powerful voice for social change.
Awa’s success has not been without challenges. In 2016, she was arrested for participating in a protest against the government. However, the experience did not deter her from using her music as a platform for social commentary. Instead, it strengthened her resolve to speak truth to power.
Awa has also made headlines for her personal life. In 2022, she announced that she would be entering into a polygamous marriage as a second wife. Awa has expressed her comfort with the arrangement, stating that she was approached by the first wife and that they all agreed to the union.
Today, Awa Khiwe is one of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated hip-hop artists. Her music has taken her to international stages, and she continues to inspire a new generation of artists. Despite her success, Awa remains true to her roots, using her platform to amplify the voices of marginalized communities.
Dandaro Online, Zimbabwe Appreciation
