Skilled guitarist and Tshivenda traditional-music star Thiathu Netshikweta, from Hamakhuvha village near Matatshe, is a worried man. The reason for his worry is that part of his life has been destroyed in what he believes is misfortune meant to test his bravery in the music industry.

Netshikweta’s beloved guitar, which he named Ninja, was damaged beyond repair in a freak accident that happened last weekend. Unable to live without his guitar, Netshikweta is appealing to Good Samaritans to help him acquire a new guitar, so that he can continue promoting his tradition and culture through traditional music.

“There was a soccer match in the nearby village and, as always, I went there to watch soccer and play my guitar for the spectators, who were enjoying my music,” he explained. “That day, I even played new songs that I composed on the spot, and everyone was happy with my performance. I played the guitar like there would be no tomorrow, not knowing that I was saying goodbye to my beloved guitar.”

After the soccer match, Netshikweta continued playing his guitar, and a large group of people gathered around, enjoying the music. “It was dusky when I wrapped up my performance, and another soccer fan, who had a bakkie, volunteered to take me home along with other fans. We were travelling home in the back of the bakkie when the driver suddenly swerved to avoid a taxi that had stopped abruptly in front of us. Although my guitar had a strap, I lost control of it because it happened so suddenly, and it fell in the middle of the tarred road. What I saw next broke my heart as my beloved guitar was damaged beyond repair.”

When asked why he had called his guitar Ninja, Netshikweta said: “I likened my guitar to an ancient Japanese martial arts guru because it allowed me to perform miracles with my fingers. Ninja was my best friend and so flexible that I could play anything at any time.”

Netshikweta said he had needed almost two years to save the money to buy his beloved guitar 10 years ago. “With people buying music online and gigs being very scarce, it will take me a very long time to save enough money to buy another guitar.”

Those who want to assist Netshikweta can call him directly on 076 230 7552.