By MKHOKHELI ZIBENGWA
In the vibrant landscape of Zimbabwe’s cultural scene, Cwebile "Silanke" Sibanda, also known as Silanke CweNgel, shines as a "Poetess of Light."
Her journey from local schools and family gatherings to national and international stages is a testament to her dedication to poetry and her enduring belief in love.
With the release of her debut single, Ungowami, Silanke marks a milestone in her career, sharing a message of resilience, love, and togetherness with audiences worldwide.
Silanke’s poetic journey began during her early years at Chinotimba Primary School in Victoria Falls and continued through her higher education. She captivated friends and family with her words at gatherings like birthday parties and kitchen teas. Her talent was formally recognized in 2013 by the Victory Siyanqoba Trust (VST) Director, who invited her to perform at their December event—a pivotal moment that launched her career in Zimbabwe’s poetry scene.
Following her performance with VST, Silanke was recruited by Moyoxide Ideations (M.I.), where she refined her craft through appearances at weddings, festivals, and community events. Her work with M.I. opened doors to perform at renowned events, including the Eziko Theatre Laboratory, Ibumba Festival, and Intwasa Festival, embedding her poetry within Zimbabwe's cultural tapestry.
Her reach soon extended beyond local stages to national and international ones, with performances across Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, Harare, Lupane, and Gweru, as well as in Kenya, South Africa, and Germany. Silanke’s work resonates with audiences worldwide, sharing Zimbabwean culture and stories on a global stage.
Her latest project, Ungowami (You Are Mine), is a heartfelt exploration of love. Silanke describes love as sacred and real, especially when shared by two people who believe in and support one another. She explains, “Love takes two to believe in each other, stand for each other, and fight to be with each other forever.”
Through Ungowami, she encourages couples to cherish their bonds and commit fully, urging them to “build a home together, stay together, and be happy together till eternity.”
In addition to her poetry, Silanke has made a lasting impact as a leader in youth civic spaces. She served as VST's Programs Manager from 2018 to 2023 and was appointed International Affairs Director in 2023. Her advocacy for youth and civic engagement has earned her widespread respect, further solidifying her as a positive influence within her community.
Throughout her journey, Silanke has collaborated with some of Zimbabwe’s most talented artists. She worked with Umahlokomisa on the Umthombo Wothando poetry project and contributed to the Hope, Peace & Love Project alongside Moyoxide, Thaluso da Poet, Mbulazi, and Dr. Gasolo. Silanke credits Moyoxide Ideations as both her mentor and source of inspiration, shaping her artistry and guiding her career.
Silanke also mentioned that, my art journey was also inspired by the multi award winning poet and actress Sithandazile Dube popularly known as Um'Afrikakazi.
Silanke’s network extends internationally. While performing in Germany, she met the multi award winning Austrian-based Insingizi Crew. During this meeting, she shared her dream of creating a poetry album. Blessings Nqoé of Nqoe Music Studios, a member of Insingizi, offered to collaborate and helped bring Ungowami to life. Together with award winning musician Vusa Mkhaya, they blended spoken word and music, recorded in Bulawayo and brought to life under Nqoé’s direction.
Her achievements would not have been possible without the support of her family and friends. She extends heartfelt thanks to her parents, whose encouragement has been crucial, and to her friends and peers in the arts, whose motivation has driven her to new heights. She also acknowledges Priscilla Sithole, the director of IBHAYISIKOPO, and Honorable D. Moyo, whose roles in VST and M.I. have profoundly influenced her growth as an artist.
As she moves forward, Silanke CweNgel’s voice continues to inspire hope, love, and resilience, captivating audiences at home and abroad. With Ungowami as her first single, she stands as a beacon of Zimbabwean culture and creativity, carrying her message of love and unity to the world.
