When a resident of Lutomboni village in the Nzhelele Valley, Mr Thivhusiwi Tshindane Tshivhula, received the SA Literary Award at the auditorium of the North West University in Potchefstroom in November last year, he promised his followers a new book at the beginning of this year. He kept his promise by publishing a new novel last week.

Well-known VenRap artist HaaNdi YellowMah has made a comeback with his brand new single, “Munna Ha Lili” (Men Don’t Cry). The single, accompanied by a music video, was released about a week ago and is bound to set screens ablaze.

His real name is Tshifhiwa Netshituni but he is more widely known by his stage name, Felas. After disappearing from music circles about four years ago, this resident of Khubvi village outside Thohoyandou is back with another single.

After many years spent as a backing vocalist, Onica Vumbhoni Maluleke, known simply as Onica, has finally come out of her cocoon and is now basking in the limelight. This follows the release of her debut single, “Yeshua Hamashiach”, on Thursday, 18 January.

Legendary African folklore and Rhumba musician Peter Tshirolwe, known in the music industry as Tshigomboza, has finished recording his latest offering, called “Tshamapundu”.

Musician Acolly Mandiza has been closely observing and following every step of Thovhele Gole Mphaphuli, the leader of the Mphaphuli Dynasty, for a long time now. Impressed by his actions, Acolly decided to write a song dedicated to the traditional leader, praising him and letting him know that his quality leadership had not gone unnoticed. The single, titled “Thovhele Musiiwa Gole Mphaphuli,” was released on Monday, 22 January.

The Imbewu Ye Themba Youth Choir from Elim Mpheni, Block D2, achieved success at the First Annual Talent Show held at the Shitachi Destination Life Bible Church on Saturday, 13 January. The choir secured the first position in the music category and was rewarded with a trophy, certificate, and medal.

Nation Mathebula, an artist from Bungeni village, finds inspiration in the ever-changing nature of time, creating artwork that charms and brings joy to art lovers. His latest piece, featuring a child and an elderly figure, serves as a reminder that our time on earth is limited.

Multi-award-winning local author Jubilee Rivombo from Bungeni has turned her passion for books into a catalyst for change as she champions the cause to foster a reading culture within her community. In a world often dominated by fleeting digital distractions, Rivombo promotes the profound joys and benefits of delving into the written word. In 2020, she established a publishing company called Khanimamba Hikhensile to promote reading among both young and old people.

The much-anticipated crowning of Miss Mulima 2023/24 took place during the third annual event that was held at the Hope of Glory Church in Mulima village on 23 December last year.

Mashudu Nemadzivhani from Makhuvha, better known as Tsilatsila Murendi, released his latest reggae poetry single “Vhutshilo” on 7 January, and if he keeps up this standard of work, a bright future undoubtedly awaits him.

Tshivenda music lovers are in for a treat and can start the new year on a high note, following the release of another album by the legendary and iconic Tshivenda music outfit, Adziambei Band. The album, titled “Mihwalo Vol 19”, was released on Friday, 12 January.