Ekurhuleni gwijo concert promotes unity and cultural heritage

Music lovers gathered in celebration of culture and rhythm when Ekhaya Gwijo Healers hosted the second annual Gwijo Concert at Hurricane Lifestyle on March 7.

The event aimed to bring together gwijo music groups and fans to showcase and celebrate the unique genre of gwijo music.
According to the organisers, the concert was designed as a celebration rather than a competition.

There were no judges or prizes, with the focus placed purely on unity, enjoyment and appreciation of gwijo performances throughout the day.

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A total of 18 gwijo groups attended the event, including participants travelling from the North West, Mpumalanga and three groups from the Free State.

Organisers, Ekhaya Gwijo Healer’s co-founder Sipho Mthembu noted significant growth in the participating groups compared to the previous year.

“All the groups showed improvement, as most came with new uniforms and delivered better and more mature performances than last year,” said Mthembu.

Mthembu added that it was encouraging to see groups investing in their presentation.

“It’s always exciting to see more people taking the initiative to get uniforms. This shows they are interested and invested in the art of music and what they do.”

Mthembu also highlighted that the concert plays an important role in reviving and strengthening gwijo culture.

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“The concert is bringing life to gwijo by unifying the groups and making every event about the culture and the style, while we educate and grow each other.”

“The gathering also helps artists build networks and adapt the genre to modern audiences,” said Mthembu.

“United, we get to focus on what matters most, the talent and the artists. We share ideas, follow each other on social media, and the modern touches groups add to gwijo music keep it current and relevant,” said Mthembu.

“The event continues to grow as a platform that celebrates gwijo heritage while encouraging creativity and collaboration among performers.

On a positive note, the organisers also received a donation of 200 sanitary pads from Omlonde Pads, which were distributed to girls in need during the event.

“We also commend the owner of Hurricane Lifestyle for showing interest in youth activities and for opening his venue to the children to host the event at very short notice,” said Mthembu.

Mthembu added that any sanitary pads that remained after the distribution would be donated back to the local community.

“The leftover pads will be given back to the community, which will mark our second time giving back,” said Mthembu.

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Mthembu also highlighted the financial challenges they face in hosting such events.

“We as Ekhaya Gwijo Healers do not have sponsors. We use the budget we raise from our own group, and our founders also assist with finances.”

“Despite the challenges, we praise the participation groups commit.

“We also commend all the groups for showing unity in the name of gwijo music, coming to the event and blessing us with their talent.”