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18 April 2024 | Story Leonie Bolleurs | Photo Leonie Bolleurs
Nkosingiphile Zondi
Nkosingiphile Zondi graduated with a BAgric Mixed Farming degree. In March, he also released his first music album, Ngingohlakaniphile.

If you have ever browsed music on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Music and came across the 15-track album, Ngingohlakaniphile, you would never have guessed that the young man on the cover – dressed in light colours of grey and white – has another passion: farming.

Nkosingiphile Zondi, hailing from a small rural area called Tugela Ferry in KwaZulu-Natal, graduated with a Bachelor of Agriculture, majoring in Mixed Farming Management, at the April graduation ceremonies of the University of the Free State (UFS).

According to Zondi, his love for nature, animals, and their well-being motivated him to pursue a degree in mixed farming.

Two milestone events in one month

Zondi, who describes himself as open to new ideas, hardworking, and someone who values respect (something his parents taught him), says he is excited and grateful for achieving two milestones: obtaining his degree and releasing his first album, both within a month's time (his album was released on 22 March 2024). “I have never been so happy in my life,” he remarks.

Regarding balancing farming and music in the future, he says it won't be a problem because he managed to do both in the past few years. Dr Phumudzo Tharaga, Lecturer in Agrometeorology in the Department of Soil, Crop, and Climate Sciences, says that Zondi managed to graduate in record time while pursuing his music career. “This is a unique talent,” he comments.

He believes that his music will help people see life from a different perspective. “Life is not only about struggles. There's also happiness after struggling. I hope that my music can heal people, ease the pain at times, and bring them happiness,” he says.

People to relate to the messages in his songs

On the other hand, he hopes that his music can generate income, which he believes will be helpful if he wants to own a farm. He looks forward to his music bringing him a better life.

Zondi describes his music as maskanda (traditional), representing the Zulu culture. “Those interested in the culture can gain something through this music. When I compose or write a song, I ensure that people can relate to the message being delivered,” he says, adding that his songs reflect people’s lives, often his own, as well as everyday occurrences.

He features as the lead guitarist and also handles vocals and composition. Zondi is accompanied by other musicians on bass guitar, keyboard, and concertina. 

News Archive

Kovsie alumni reunion on the Thames.
2005-07-07

There are only 20 places left for Kovsie Alumni that want to attend the Castle Lager Kovsie Alumni London Reunion! This year’s reunion will be in a class of its own and will be held on the Queen Mary on the Thames River. The reunion will take place next Saturday 16 July and the popular Blou Willem Theron will be the key note speaker. A cantush will also be held. (For those who do not know what that is, the Alumni will sing traditional South African songs and have an incredible time!).





The reunion will start at 18:30 and tickets cost £10. This includes a buffet dinner and access to the Queen Mary nightclub later the evening. Unfortunately, only 150 people can be accommodated on the Queen Mary (130 people have already booked). Therefore, if you know of any Kovsie Alumni in the United Kingdom, contact Anli Bosman at anlibosman@yahoo.com. 

 


 

Dr Ivan van Rooyen (Director: UFS Marketing), Willem van Huyssteen (SAB Regional Marketing Manager) en Jeannette Boshoff-Jansen (UFS Marketing).
 

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