UK-Based Zimbabwean Gospel Artist Simangenkosi “Mantongande” Nkala Calls for Stronger Mental Health Awareness Through Faith and Music
UK-based Zimbabwean gospel musician Simangenkosi “Mantongande” Nkala is using her voice and music to push for deeper conversations around mental health, grief and emotional wellbeing in Zimbabwe. Known for blending gospel music with traditional Ndebele sounds, she has built a distinct identity that connects spiritual messages with cultural expression. During a recent visit to Zimbabwe, Nkala shared her personal journey and explained how faith, music and lived experience continue to shape her mission as an artist. She said her work is not only about performance but about offering healing and hope to people going through difficult life situations. Her message comes at a time when mental health challenges and substance abuse are increasing in many communities across the country.
Nkala revealed that her outlook on life and music was deeply shaped by her experience as a cancer survivor and by the loss of close friends and relatives. She described surviving cancer as a moment defined by faith and gratitude, rather than personal strength alone. She said, “I’m a cancer survivor. I believe I survived by the mercy of God. It was not because I was more intelligent or clever than others. I prayed, had faith in God and I believe that is why I survived.” This experience, she explained, gave her a renewed appreciation for life and strengthened her commitment to using music as a platform for encouragement. It also influenced the emotional depth of her songwriting, which often reflects themes of endurance, healing and hope.
The artist said her music goes beyond entertainment and serves as a source of comfort for people dealing with grief, illness and emotional distress. She explained that gospel music carries a message that should speak directly to the struggles people face in their daily lives. Nkala said, “When you talk about music, you talk about the message that you present to people. As a Christian, I have a message to share with people, a message of hope. The Word of God is in my music.” Her approach combines spiritual teaching with personal storytelling, allowing listeners to connect with both faith and lived experience. This blend has helped her build a unique musical identity rooted in both Christianity and Ndebele cultural expression.
Nkala also raised concerns about how mental health is discussed in Zimbabwe, saying there is still limited openness compared to what she has observed in the United Kingdom. She said many people struggle in silence because emotional and psychological challenges are often misunderstood or ignored. According to her, some communities still interpret mental health conditions through spiritual explanations instead of recognising the need for medical or counselling support. She said, “Here we don’t talk much about mental health. We are not open enough. You find that someone is depressed and people do not even know. They just think something is wrong with them.” She believes this lack of awareness prevents people from seeking help early and increases suffering within families and communities.
She linked rising cases of drug and alcohol abuse among young people to untreated emotional distress and social pressure. Nkala pointed out that unemployment, peer influence and lack of support systems are pushing many young people into substance use as a coping mechanism. She warned that this trend is destroying lives and weakening communities. She said stronger counselling services, community support and open conversations could help reduce the problem significantly. She also noted that while drugs exist in many countries, stronger support structures in places like the UK help people recover and manage addiction more effectively.
Nkala said her experiences with grief have had a direct impact on her songwriting and artistic direction. She explained that some of her songs were inspired by the deaths of close friends and relatives who battled cancer. One story that stayed with her involved a woman from her church who faced pancreatic cancer with strong faith and acceptance. Nkala said the woman’s attitude during her final days left a lasting impression on her understanding of life and faith. She said, “What really touched me was her realisation that she was coming to the end and decided to detach herself from the things of this world.” These experiences continue to influence her music, which often reflects themes of surrender, peace and spiritual strength.
Nkala believes that Zimbabwe needs more safe spaces where people can talk openly about emotional struggles without fear of stigma. She said counselling, family support and honest dialogue can play a major role in helping individuals cope with depression, trauma and loss. Her message calls for a shift in how communities respond to mental health challenges, especially among young people. Through her music and public voice, she continues to advocate for healing that combines faith, awareness and practical support. Her work highlights the role artists can play in shaping conversations that go beyond entertainment and speak directly to social wellbeing.
