Renowned Afro-pop singer Nathi Mankayi has returned to the very place that once held him captive. This time, however, he enters not as a prisoner, but as a beacon of hope and inspiration for those seeking transformation behind bars. Nathi, who hails from Maclear in the Eastern Cape, aims to use his own experiences to guide and motivate inmates towards a better path in life.
With his Silwa Nemimoya Picnic Tour on the horizon, Nathi Mankayi is driven by a profound desire to witness incarcerated individuals emerge from prison walls as changed and reformed individuals. Reflecting on his own past, Nathi shared, "I spent eight years in prison, and it was not a pleasant experience. It is now my duty to ensure that inmates have the opportunity to break free from the cycle of crime. By sharing my personal journey, I hope to inspire them to make positive changes."
Nathi's first encounter with the justice system occurred in 2006 when he was sentenced to eight years in prison for his involvement in a robbery dating back to 2002. Despite this setback, the indomitable spirit within him refused to be broken. In a twist of fate, Nathi found himself arrested once again in 2019 for a business robbery. However, through mediation, he managed to evade imprisonment.
Raised by a single mother, Nathi found himself yearning for a life beyond his means. It was during this pursuit that he became entangled with the wrong crowd, inevitably leading him down a path of incarceration. Determined to break free from the shackles of his past, Nathi has emerged from his time behind bars a changed man, eager to extend a helping hand to others.
"I have visited various prisons and spoken to inmates about the perils of crime," Nathi revealed. "I firmly believe that continuing to engage with different correctional facilities will have a positive impact on the lives of those incarcerated."
Following his release, Nathi embarked on a music career that would redefine his life's trajectory. In 2015, he unveiled his debut album, "Buyelekhaya," featuring chart-topping hits such as "Nomvula," "Imibuzo," and "Noba Ngumama." The success of his music only served to strengthen Nathi's resolve to use his platform for the betterment of others.
As the Silwa Nemimoya Picnic Tour prepares to kick off on Saturday, 22 June at the Botanic Gardens in Durban, Nathi's choice of tour name holds significant meaning. Inspired by the overwhelming response to his song "Imimoya," Nathi decided to name the tour "Silwa Nemimoya" as a tribute to the song's impact.
Embracing a fusion of Afro-soul and gospel, "Imimoya" struck a chord with music enthusiasts across the nation. Nathi's tour will not only serve as a platform for his own musical talents but will also introduce local artists from each city. In Durban, he has enlisted the renowned maskandi singer Gatsheni (Khuzani Ndlovu) to ensure a diverse and unforgettable experience for concertgoers.
The Silwa Nemimoya Picnic Tour is set to captivate audiences until November, with upcoming performances in Gqebegha, Cape Town, Bloemfontein, Mthatha, and Johannesburg. Nathi's lineup of performers includes Naima Kay, The Soil, and Jumbo, promising a stellar showcase of South African talent.
Nathi Mankayi's unwavering commitment to inspiring change within the prison system is a testament to his own personal growth and transformation. As he steps onto the stage, both figuratively and literally, he hopes to leave an indelible mark on the lives of inmates, imparting the power of redemption and second chances.
In a world where celebrities often bask in the limelight without a second thought for those less fortunate, Nathi's dedication to making a difference serves as a shining example of compassion and empathy.
