“I have realised that it is very important to make sure that my culture comes first and the whole world must know about

Tshivenda and Kokovha.”

These were the words said of award-winning musician Makhadzi at the exclusive launch of her collaboration with Kicks Sportswear at the Mall of Africa last week.

Makhadzi, real name Ndivhudzannyi Ralivhona, signed a R120 million deal with Kicks Sportswear last month involving merchandise called Kokovha, inspired by her 2020 title album, Kokovha.

The Tshanda Vhuya and Matorokisi hitmaker said the multimillion-rand deal was important to her as a young black artist in showcasing African talent to the world and to celebrate different African cultures.

“It means a lot of things to me. It means that my life is very important and so is our culture as black people in business.

“So I was interested in the Kokovha edition because they want to represent my culture and my language, and I have realised that it is very important to make sure that my culture comes first and the whole world must know about Tshivenda and Kokovha,” she said.

Makhadzi said she was optimistic about her future in business.

“Actually, we are going far because we are planning to release our new Kokovha merchandise. Next year we will be launching other Kokovha merchandise,” said the 25-year-old Limpopo-born star.

Makhadzi had a few words of advice for up-and-coming artists who are interested in such partnerships.

“All I can say is, as long as you believe in yourself and that you are good, and you believe that what you can touch can turn into gold, you must go for it.”