Maskandi Duo Aphiwe and Sobancane Shine with New Album ‘Funda Ukwamukela’

Maskandi duo Aphiwe and Sobancane are turning heads with their latest studio project, Funda Ukwamukela, an album that highlights family bonds, cultural pride, and heartfelt storytelling. Produced over a month in Johannesburg’s Maboneng suburb, the album brings together creative talent from across Limpopo, blending traditional rhythms with contemporary sounds.

The project features a standout collaboration with celebrated South African rapper Fifi Cooper, widely known as the First Lady of Motswako. Cooper appears on the remix of their track Ukufa, a song she described as “blown away” upon first hearing.

The title track, Funda Ukwamukela, tells the story of a nephew and his blind uncle living in a world filled with love and compassion. Other tracks including Uyabaleka, Ngiyakuthanda, Kweminye Imizi, Kwabanemali, Izidakamizwa, and Uthando Lweqiniso carry messages of hope, love, and festive joy, reflecting the duo’s commitment to storytelling rooted in rural life and cultural heritage.

This release follows their previous works, Nhliziyo Yami and Imibuzo. According to their manager, Handy, the album will be launched through a tour across Zimbabwe before heading to South Africa. “As usual, we’ll be launching the album through a tour, spreading from Plumtree town to other towns and cities before also doing a launch in South Africa. This is a new sound that surely deserves to reach a larger audience,” Handy said.

Aphiwe and Sobancane are also celebrating a major online milestone, reaching 100 000 followers on their official Facebook page. Their music, known for heartfelt lyrics, traditional rhythms, and deep cultural roots, has captured fans across Zimbabwe and beyond.

“We’re humbled by the love and support from our people. This milestone shows that rural voices can reach the world. Our growing online presence marks a powerful example of how digital platforms are helping traditional musicians share their art with a global audience while keeping the spirit of maskandi alive,” the duo said in a statement.

With Funda Ukwamukela, Aphiwe and Sobancane continue to bridge tradition and modernity, showing that maskandi music can thrive both locally and internationally while celebrating family, community, and cultural heritage.